Knee Replacement Surgery

If physical therapy or medications are ineffective in cases of knee osteoarthritis, the most effective solution is knee replacement surgery. Like all surgical interventions, this procedure requires anesthesia. Epidural or spinal anesthesia is used to numb the lower half of the body.

The surgery begins with an incision on the front of the knee to access the joint. The worn cartilage tissues of the femur, tibia, and patella bones in the joint are removed along with a thin layer of bone. Then, the appropriately sized prosthesis is placed on the bone surfaces using bone cement (polymethyl methacrylate).
 

Who is Suitable for Knee Replacement?

Knee replacement may not be suitable for every patient. When deciding on surgery, the doctor evaluates the patient's history, age, lifestyle, and mobility. Non-surgical treatments are usually the first choice. However, knee replacement surgery is the most effective method for patients experiencing severe pain and movement limitations.
 

Conditions Requiring Knee Replacement

Knee osteoarthritis (gonarthrosis) can occur for various reasons. Aging, excessive weight, joint injuries, rheumatic diseases, and infections can cause osteoarthritis. In these cases, knee replacement surgery is considered, but surgery is not performed in the presence of an active infection.
 

Lifespan of a Knee Replacement

Thanks to modern surgical techniques and advanced prosthesis designs, the lifespan of knee replacements has been extended to 15-20 years. Over time, prostheses can wear out or loosen, in which case a second surgery to replace the prosthesis may be necessary. However, the lifespan of the second prosthesis is usually shorter. The condition of the prosthesis should be monitored with regular check-ups and X-rays.
 

Factors of Weight and Age in Knee Replacement

Knee replacement is generally not performed on younger patients. Prostheses are more commonly preferred in patients over the age of 60. Thanks to developing technology, prostheses are now more durable and long-lasting, so they can be used from the age of 50 if needed. Overweight patients can also be suitable for prosthesis surgery, but the risks of the surgery should be carefully evaluated.
 

Risks of Knee Replacement Surgery

The risks of surgery include infection, blood clots, and mechanical problems. Although the risk of infection is low, preventive antibiotics and good operating room conditions are important. Blood clots pose a risk, especially for patients who remain immobile for long periods. To prevent this risk, blood-thinning medications are used after surgery, and patients are encouraged to move quickly.
 

Alternatives to Knee Replacement

Joint fusion surgery can be performed for patients with severe joint deterioration. However, this method is not preferred for patients with problems in both knees. Nowadays, knee replacements that do not cause movement restrictions are more commonly used.
 

Knee Replacement Surgery Process

After the decision for surgery, the patient's overall health is evaluated. During the surgery, which is performed under general anesthesia or lower-body anesthesia, the damaged joint surfaces are cleaned, and the prosthesis is placed. A small scar may remain at the end of the surgery.
 

Postoperative Care

After the surgery, the patient is usually discharged on the third day. At home, the patient continues walking with a walker, exercising, and taking medications regularly. Dressing changes are done every three days, and the wound area is kept dry. Stitches are removed 21 days after the surgery, and compression stockings are taken off. The patient returns to the hospital for a check-up six weeks later.
 

Post-Surgery Precautions

• Avoid sudden and unconscious movements.
• Use the prescribed medications regularly.
• Do not skip physical therapy sessions.
• Take regular walks.
• Consume foods rich in vitamin D and calcium.
• Do not bathe until the first check-up.
• Use blood-thinning medications correctly.
• Avoid movements such as climbing stairs and squatting.