Total Knee Replacement Surgical Procedures

Total knee replacement surgery is one of the largest and most complex surgeries an orthopedic doctor can perform. It requires extensive rehabilitation. In most cases it is worthwhile, because it restores quality of life to the patient.

The Incision

• The surgeon will make the incision most commonly over the midline of the kneecap. The standard knee replacement incision is 6 to 9 inches in length. In minimally invasive or unicompartmental knee replacement surgery, the incision might be made on the inside or outside of the leg next to the knee joint. The incision usually is 4 to 6 inches in length.

Removal

• The upper part of the lower leg bone (tibia) and the lower part of the upper leg bone (femur), as well as the entire kneecap (patella) are cut off and removed. In the case of unicompartmental knee replacement, only the diseased or damaged section of the knee is cut out.

Replacement

• The prosthesis, made to meet the specifics of the patient, is then inserted into the knee joint and cemented, hammered and pinned into place. The ligaments, tendons and muscles are reattached and tested for alignment, and the incision closed.

Rehab

• The patient, upon waking, will begin rehabilitation immediately. This is critical to the recovery of the patient and the usability of the replaced knee. Rehab for this surgery can take six months to a year.

Warning

• After a surgery as extensive as this one, where a prosthetic has been placed into the body, it is critical to watch for infection. Symptoms include but are not limited to fever, redness and painful swelling in the joint; foul smelling discharge, vomiting and lethargy. Seek immediate medical attention if an infection is suspected.