Knee replacement surgery is a common procedure performed to relieve pain and improve the function of the knee joint. This procedure is done to remove the damaged parts of the knee joint and replace them with a prosthetic joint. The purpose of this blog is to provide a comprehensive overview of types of knee replacement surgery and why it is performed.
What is Knee Replacement Surgery?
The knee is one of the largest and most complex joints in the body, consisting of bones, cartilage, Knee ligaments, and tendons. Knee damage can occur due to a variety of reasons, including arthritis, injury, and wear and tear. Knee replacement surgery involves removing the damaged parts of the knee and replacing them with a prosthetic joint.
There are four types of knee replacement surgery total knee replacement (TKR), partial knee replacement (PKR), Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement, and Custom Knee Replacement.
Why is Knee Replacement Surgery Performed?
These types of knee replacement surgery are performed to relieve pain and improve the function of the knee. Symptoms of knee damage include knee pain, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty with daily activities.
These types of knee replacement surgery can help relieve these symptoms and improve quality of life. This procedure is recommended for individuals with severe knee damage who have not responded to other forms of treatment, such as physical therapy and medication.
Types of Knee Replacement Surgery
Total Knee Replacement (TKR)
Total knee replacement surgery is a types of knee replacement surgery, also known as total knee arthroplasty, is a procedure that replaces all three compartments of the knee joint. This type of knee replacement surgery is typically recommended for individuals with severe knee damage, such as arthritis, who have not responded to other forms of treatment. Total knee replacement surgery can provide a significant improvement in knee function and relieve pain.
Partial Knee Replacement (PKR)
Partial knee replacement surgery, also known as unicompartmental knee arthroplasty, is a procedure that only replaces the damaged part of the knee joint. This type of knee replacement surgery is typically recommended for individuals with limited knee damage, such as osteoarthritis, in one compartment of the knee. Partial knee replacement surgery can provide a less invasive option with a quicker recovery time compared to total knee replacement surgery.
Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement
Robotic-assisted knee replacement surgery is a newer type of knee replacement surgery that uses a robot to assist the surgeon in positioning the prosthetic joint during the procedure. This type of surgery can provide a more precise and accurate placement of the prosthetic joint, leading to improved outcomes and a quicker recovery time. However, robotic-assisted knee replacement surgery is not yet widely available and may not be covered by insurance.
Custom Knee Replacement
Custom knee replacement surgery is a type of knee replacement surgery that uses a patient’s unique anatomy to create a custom-fit prosthetic joint. This type of surgery can provide a more accurate and comfortable fit, leading to improved outcomes and a quicker recovery time. Custom knee replacement surgery is typically recommended for individuals with complex knee anatomy or for those who have had previous knee surgery.
The Knee Replacement Surgery Procedure
These types of knee replacement implants are performed under anesthesia and typically take 1-2 hours. During the procedure, the damaged parts of the knee are removed and the prosthetic joint is inserted and secured in place. After the surgery, the individual will need to stay in the hospital for a few days for observation and postoperative care.
Risks and Benefits of Knee Replacement Surgery
Like all surgeries, these types of knee replacement implants do come with potential risks. These risks include infection, blood clots, and dislocation of the prosthetic joint. However, the benefits of knee replacement surgery can greatly outweigh the risks.
This procedure can relieve pain, improve knee function, and improve the overall quality of life. When compared to alternative treatments, such as medication and physical therapy, knee replacement surgery can be a highly effective solution for individuals with severe knee damage.
Is robotic-assisted knee replacement surgery better than traditional knee replacement surgery?
These types of knee replacement surgery use a robot to assist the surgeon in positioning the prosthetic joint during the procedure, leading to improved precision and accuracy. However, not all individuals may be candidates for this type of surgery and it may not be widely available or covered by insurance. The decision on whether to choose traditional or robotic-assisted knee replacement surgery should be made in consultation.
Who is the right candidate for partial knee replacement surgery?
Typically this types of knee replacement surgery is recommended for individuals with limited knee damage, such as osteoarthritis, in one compartment of the knee. Individuals with complex knee anatomy or who have had previous knee surgery may also be candidates for partial knee replacement surgery. The decision on whether to choose partial knee replacement surgery should be made in consultation with a surgeon.
What are the potential complications of knee replacement surgery?
Potential complications of these types of knee replacement implants include infection, blood clots, implant loosening, and nerve or blood vessel damage. It is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits of knee replacement surgery with a surgeon before making a decision.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these four types of knee replacement implants are common procedures performed to relieve pain and improve the function of the knee. Knee replacement surgery is recommended for individuals with severe knee damage who have not responded to other forms of treatment.
Read also Types of Hip Replacement Surgery.
