A total knee replacement is performed for osteoarthritis or degeneration of the knee. The cartilage is therefore worn down so that the underlying bone is exposed. Over time the friction at these worn surfaces causes pain, swelling and stiffness, especially with activities. It can also cause deformity of the joint.
The ideal time to consider knee replacement surgery is when the discomfort reduces quality of life because of pain and lower activity level.
During a total knee replacement only, the degenerated joint surface is removed and resurfaced with the prosthesis which is fixed to the bone with cement. The surgery is performed under spinal anesthesia and sedation and mobilization with crutches or a walking frame is initiated on the same or next day. Average hospital stay is 3-4 days or 5 days for bilateral procedures. Patients are usually fully ambulant without crutches at 4-6 weeks.
After about 3 months patients can start to participate in low demand sport like bowls, doubles tennis, golf, cycling and walking. Occasional clicking of the knee is normal.
The average life expectancy of the prosthesis is 20 years.
Suite 2 West Coast Private Hospital,
22 Voortrekker Street
Vredenburg, 7380
