The Ultimate Guide to Knee Replacement Surgery

Lake Charles Memorial Orthopedics is your comprehensive resource for knee replacement and knee replacement surgery information. In this guide, we will explore everything about knee replacement, from the procedure itself, how to prepare and what to expect from recovery.

Overview of Knee Replacement Surgery

Knee replacement, or knee arthroplasty, is a surgical solution for those suffering from severe knee damage or arthritis. Knee replacement surgery involves removing the diseased parts of the knee and replacing them with artificial components. There are several knee surgery types, and working together with your team of orthopedic specialists, you can be assured that the choice of surgery will be tailor-made for your unique healthcare needs.

Here are the four most common types of knee replacement surgery:

• Total Knee Replacement (TKR): The entire knee joint is replaced with artificial components. Total knee replacement is suitable for individuals with advanced arthritis or significant knee damage.
• Partial Knee Replacement (PKR): Only the damaged part of the knee is replaced. Partial knee replacement is ideal for individuals with limited knee damage.
• Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement: This advanced knee replacement surgery uses robotic technology for precision and accuracy.
• Revision Knee Replacement: Performed when a previous knee replacement has failed or needs correction. It involves removing and replacing the existing artificial components.

Each knee surgery type involves removing the damaged bone and cartilage, and then securely placing artificial components in the joint. Post-surgery, patients undergo a rehabilitation program to regain strength and mobility.

Preparing for Knee Replacement Surgery

Preparation for knee replacement surgery, whether it's a total knee replacement, partial knee replacement, or robotic knee replacement, is vital for a successful outcome. Here, we address some common questions related to the knee surgery types.

How do I know I need a knee replacement?

Knee replacement surgery is typically recommended when other treatments fail to relieve chronic knee pain. Your knee surgeons will suggest this option based on the severity of your knee condition and the impact on your daily life.

How should you prepare for the surgery?

Follow your knee surgeon's specific instructions. General guidelines include informing your surgeon about any medications you are taking, completing pre-surgery labs, arranging a support system for recovery, and preparing your home for a comfortable recovery period.

Why choose Lake Charles Memorial for knee replacement surgery?

Lake Charles Memorial specializes in providing exceptional orthopedic care. Our experienced knee surgeons, cutting-edge facilities, and comprehensive rehabilitation services prioritize your comfort, safety, and long-term success.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Understanding the recovery process is crucial for a successful outcome of knee replacement surgery. Here we provide insights into hospital stay, recovery time, and post-surgery care.

During your hospital stay, our dedicated medical team will monitor your vital signs, manage your pain, and assist with mobility. Physical therapists will guide you through exercises to regain strength and flexibility after your knee replacement.

Recovery times vary for different knee surgery types, but typically, patients stay in the hospital for a few days. Full recovery may take weeks or months, involving continued physical therapy sessions.

To ensure a smooth recovery after your knee replacement, do the following:

• Follow your healthcare provider's instructions
• Take prescribed medications
• Keep the surgical site clean
• Attend physical therapy sessions
• Use assistive devices as instructed
• Gradually increase your activity level
• Maintain a healthy diet.

Long-term Considerations

There are common long-term considerations related to know replacement surgery.

A well-performed knee replacement, including total knee replacement, partial knee replacement, and robotic-assisted knee replacement, can last 15 to 20 years, depending on various factors. Technological advancements have further increased the lifespan of replacements.

Bilateral knee replacement, where both knees are replaced simultaneously, is also possible and can reduce overall recovery time.

Metal detectors can be triggered by knee replacements, but modern replacements generally do not cause issues at airport security checkpoints. Inform security personnel about your knee replacement to avoid misunderstandings.

For further questions or concerns about knee replacement surgery, consult with your healthcare provider.

Additional Resources

For those considering a knee replacement surgery, including total knee replacement, partial knee replacement, and robotic-assisted knee replacement, we provide additional resources to help you understand the procedure and its outcomes:

Video Animation: We offer a detailed video animation that walks you through the entire robotic-assisted knee replacement process.

Success Stories: Gain hope and inspiration from success stories of patients who have significantly improved their quality of life after joint replacement surgery.

Call Today: Don't miss out on the latest in knee replacement technology and orthopedic treatment, located close to home in Lake Charles, Louisiana. Connect with one of our top orthopedic specialists and get back to living your life without joint pain. Click here to visit our Find- A-Doc page and take the first step towards an improved quality of life.