Knee Replacement
Knee replacement surgery (arthroplasty) is a common operation that involves replacing a damaged, worn or diseased knee with an artificial joint.
The Arthritic Knee
As we get older most people will have “wear and tear” arthritis of the knee, although some will have rheumatoid arthritis which also involves other joints. Many factors may contribute to having arthritis; obesity, accidents, vigorous sport or a family history may be important. In osteoarthritis (wear and tear), certain changes occur in the joint.
In an arthritic knee, the smooth cartilage becomes flaky and develops small cracks, the bone underneath the cartilage becomes denser and the lining of the joint becomes inflamed and may thicken up.
As this progresses, the joint may develop:
- Severe wear of the cartilage allowing the bones to rub and grate together
- Formation of bony lumps called osteophytes
- Swelling of the knee
Why do I need a Total Knee Replacement?
Total knee replacement surgery is usually necessary when the knee joint is worn or damaged so that your mobility is reduced and you are in pain even while resting.
The most common reason for knee replacement surgery is osteoarthritis. Other health conditions that cause knee damage include:
- rheumatoid arthritis
- haemophilia
- gout
- disorders that cause unusual bone growth
- death of bone in the knee joint following blood supply problems
- knee injury
- knee deformity with pain and loss of cartilage
When is knee replacement surgery recommended?
A knee replacement is major surgery, so is normally only recommended if other treatments, such as physiotherapy or steroid injections, have not reduced pain or improved mobility.
You may be offered knee replacement surgery if:
- you have severe pain, swelling and stiffness in your knee joint and your mobility is reduced
- your knee pain is so severe that it interferes with your quality of life and sleep
- everyday tasks, such as shopping or getting out of the bath, are difficult or impossible
- you're feeling depressed because of the pain and lack of mobility
- you cannot work or have a social life
You'll also need to be well enough to cope with both a major operation and the rehabilitation afterwards.
The Royal Orthopaedic Hospital JointCare Pathway
If you need a knee replacement at The Royal Orthopaedic Hospital you will follow our JointCare Pathway. Below is a booklet that will guide you through everything you will need to know about having your knee replaced from the procedure itself, benefits and risks, how to prepare, what to expect on the day of surgery and what to expect from your recovery.
