What Is Knee Replacement?

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What Is Knee Replacement? | Dr. Hilmi Karadeniz Explains

Knee conditions that lower everyday quality of life and cause severe pain and restricted movement can now be improved considerably thanks to the advanced treatment methods of modern medicine. One of these treatments is knee replacement surgery. Particularly in older patients, knee replacement is a highly effective solution for addressing damage caused by osteoarthritis and restoring quality of life.

So what is knee replacement, who is it for, what are the risks and what is the process like after surgery? Orthopaedics and Traumatology Specialist Dr. Hilmi Karadeniz explains.

What Is Knee Replacement?

Knee replacement is the procedure in which the joint surface of the knee, which has lost its normal function due to wear, deterioration and damage, is replaced with specially made prosthetic components produced from metal and plastic. It is usually performed for reasons such as advanced osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and post-traumatic joint disorders.

During this procedure, the damaged cartilage and bone on the thigh bone (femur) and shin bone (tibia) are removed and replaced with specially shaped prosthetic components. In this way, pain is relieved and function is restored to the knee joint.

When Is Knee Replacement Needed?

According to Dr. Hilmi Karadeniz, knee replacement surgery is considered in the following situations:

• Serious difficulty walking because of pain
• Complaints persisting despite medication and physiotherapy
• Deformity of the knee (for example, bow legs or knock knees)
• Pain severe enough to wake you from sleep
• Unbearable pain when climbing stairs or squatting
• Advanced joint deterioration seen on X-ray and MRI images

Types of Knee Replacement

Knee replacements fall into two main types:

1. Total Knee Replacement (TKR)

The entire knee joint is replaced with an artificial prosthesis. This is the most commonly used method. The surfaces of the femur, tibia and patella (kneecap) are completely renewed.

2. Partial (Unicondylar) Knee Replacement

This is used only when there is damage to the inner or outer part of the knee. It is a smaller surgical procedure and the recovery period is shorter. However, it may not be suitable for every patient.

Preparing for Surgery

Dr. Hilmi Karadeniz emphasises that patients should have a detailed orthopaedic examination before surgery. In addition:

• Blood tests
• Heart and lung assessments
• Internal medicine or cardiology consultation if needed
• Skin check for infection risk
• Weight and general health are assessed for suitability for the prosthesis.

How Is Knee Replacement Surgery Performed?

The operation is usually performed under spinal anaesthesia (numbing from the waist down) or general anaesthesia. It takes 1-2 hours on average. The surgeon opens the knee joint, removes the damaged surfaces and places the prosthetic components. Fixed with special medical bone cement, these components are designed to imitate the natural movement of the knee.

Recovery After Surgery

Standing up and starting physiotherapy on the first day after knee replacement is very important. This helps prevent blood clots and reduces muscle loss. The general recovery process is as follows:

• First 3 days: Hospital stay
• Week 1: Assisted walking with a walking frame
• Week 3: Independent walking with crutches
• Week 6: Return to daily tasks
• Month 3: Greater ease climbing stairs and on long walks
• Month 6 - 1 year: The body fully adapts to the prosthesis

What Should You Pay Attention to After Knee Replacement?

• Do not skip regular physiotherapy exercises
• Avoid sudden loads on the knee
• Take care when climbing stairs
• Pay attention to how far you bend the knee when sitting down and standing up
• Pay attention to hygiene because of the risk of infection
• Avoid gaining excess weight so that the prosthesis lasts longer

How Long Does a Knee Replacement Last?

The average lifespan of knee prostheses made with modern technology is around 15-20 years. However, this can vary depending on the patient's age, weight, activity level and the type of prosthesis. If necessary, a second revision (renewal) operation can be performed.

Knee Replacement Can Improve Your Quality of Life

If knee pain is lowering your quality of life and you struggle with daily activities, knee replacement may be a lasting solution for you. At the practice of Dr. Hilmi Karadeniz, we offer solutions tailored to our patients' needs and aim to perform safe, successful surgery using up-to-date surgical techniques.

Remember, a pain-free and more active life is possible. Give your knees the care they need and do not compromise on your health.