KNEE
REPLACEMENT SURGERY

Our Process

The most common reason to have a knee joint replaced is to relieve pain from severe arthritis that is limiting your activities. You may be recommended a knee replacement if you can’t sleep through the night because of knee pain, your knee pain has not improved with other treatments (e.g. painkillers, physiotherapy), your walking distance is severely limited, or your knee pain limits or prevents you from doing your normal activities, such as bathing, preparing meals, doing household chores, and walking. The knee joint acts as a hinge between the bones of the leg and is effectively two joints. The major joint is between the thigh bone of the upper leg (femur) and the shin bone of the lower leg (tibia). The smaller joint is between the knee cap (patella) and the upper leg (femur). A smooth, tough tissue called articular cartilage covers the ends of the bones, allowing them to slide smoothly over each other. The synovial membrane that covers the other surfaces of the knee joint produces synovial fluid, which lubricates the joint, reducing friction. If the articular cartilage becomes damaged or worn, the ends of the bones rub or grind together, causing pain and difficulty moving the knee joint. Replacing the damaged knee joint with an artificial one can help reduce pain and increase mobility.

Timeline

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Step 1

Following a consultation with Mr Datta, you will be given a date for surgery.

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step 2

You will be called by one of our nursing staff who will conduct a pre-assessment within 2 weeks of your surgery for blood tests and a medical examination

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step 3

Total knee replacement comprises resurfacing the bones of the tibia, femur and patella with a metal implant and then placing a high-grade plastic spacer to create a gliding surface.

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Step 4

You will be in hospital for approximately 3 days after the operation.

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Step 5

You will walk on the first day after the operation with crutches, and need them for 6 weeks, physiotherapy is used to regain muscle strength and range of movement.

Treatment Options

Hip/Knee Surgery’s

frequently asked questions

Can I run after total knee replacement?
Yes, you can return to running when you have completely healed from surgery.
Can you wear a knee brace after total knee replacement?
Knee braces resrict mobility and range of motion. We would advise to refrain from wearing a knee brace as the ideal solution would be to get the knee moving to aid healing.
Can I fly after a total knee replacement?
We would advise to wait at least 6 weeks post surgery to fly. A long haul flight can leave you more vulnerable to deep vain thrombosis (DVT). If you are planning to play post surgery, please discuss this at your consultation.