Total knee replacement surgery (total knee arthroplasty) involves cutting of the damaged cartilage and bone from the thighbone, shinbone and kneecap and replacing it with an artificial joint (prosthesis) made of polymers, high-grade plastics and metal alloys. Here, only the surface of the knee bones are actually replaced, and hence the procedure may be also be termed as ‘knee resurfacing’.

Most patients who undergo the procedure fall in the age group of 50-80 years. Even so, there are no age or weight restrictions for undergoing the total knee replacement surgery. In the past, these surgeries have also been successfully performed on teenagers with juvenile arthritis, and the older patients with degenerative arthritis too. Ultimately, it’s the orthopedic surgeons’ evaluation of a patient’s disability and pain that is most important before undergoing surgery.

The procedure takes about 1-2 hours. After administering anesthesia (local or general), keeping the knee in a bent position to expose all its surfaces, an incision of about 6-10 inches long is made. The kneecap is moved aside and the damaged bone and cartilage is removed. The new metal and plastic is implanted to restore the knee alignment and functioning. The incision is then closed with stitches or surgical staples. The type of knee implants used depends on each patient’s specific requirements.

Most knee replacements can be projected to last over 15 years. A patient is able to resume most routine activities within 3 to 6 weeks following the surgery.
Post recovery, the patient can engage in several low-impact activities like walking, climbing stairs, golfing, swimming etc. High-impact activities like jogging, badminton and sports that require jumping, are to be avoided, and can be performed only after doctor consultation.
The knee replacement surgery offers improved mobility, pain relief, and a better life quality for most patients. Presently, over 90% of total knee replacements are continuing to function well even 10 years post-surgery. But this is also possible after careful adherence to doctor instructions and a strict discipline.