When to Consider Knee Replacement Surgery

For many individuals, particularly those suffering from advanced arthritis or severe joint damage, knee replacement surgery can offer a new lease on life. Knee replacement surgery, also known as knee arthroplasty, is considered for patients who have knee pain that is impacting their daily lives, and have failed conservative measures. Many patients who recieve knee replacements have had a histroy of knee injuries. 

What is a knee replacement? 

A knee replacement, also known as knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure in which a damaged or diseased knee joint is replaced with an artificial joint or prosthesis. This procedure is typically performed to relieve pain and restore function in individuals with severe knee damage. The most common conditions leading to knee replacement include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and post-traumatic arthritis.

You should consider knee arthoplasty if you experience the following:  

1. Severe Knee Pain or Stiffness:

   • Persistent and severe pain that interferes with daily activities such as walking, climbing stairs, and getting in and out of chairs.
   • Pain that is not relieved by medications or other treatments like physical therapy.

2. Chronic Inflammation and Swelling:

   • Long-term inflammation and swelling that does not improve with rest or medications.

3. Knee Deformity:

   • If you have a noticeable deformity, such as bowing in or out of the knee, you should consult with your doctor for treatment.

4. Reduced Mobility:

   • Significant reduction in the range of motion of the knee.
   • If your knee is limiting you from getting out of bed, your chair, or making if difficult get in and out of the restroom, you may benefit from a knee replacement. 

5. Failed Conservative Treatments:

   • Non-surgical treatments such as medications, physical therapy, injections, or other interventions have not provided adequate relief.

6. X-ray or MRI Evidence:

   • Imaging that shows severe damage to the knee joint, such as advanced osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or post-traumatic arthritis.

7. Impact on Quality of Life:

   • The knee condition severely impacts the person's quality of life and ability to perform daily activities.

8. Age and General Health:

   • While there is no absolute age limit, the procedure is more commonly performed in older adults. Good overall health is important to ensure a successful recovery.

It's important to have a thorough evaluation by an orthopedic surgeon who can assess the severity of the knee condition and discuss the potential benefits and risks of knee replacement surgery. Dr. Deepan Patel, Orthopedic Surgeon at Garden State Pain and Orthopedics, specializes in knee arthoplasty. He will develop a personalized treatment plan that best fits your knees. 

Facts you didn't you know about knee replacement surgery:

- Patients who recieve knee replacement surgery are up and walking 1-2 hours after surgery. With the assistance of our medical team and a walker, patients walk through the halls of our surgery center to begin their rehab.

- You do not stay overnight at our surgery center after surgery. All patients go home a few hours following their procedure.

- Most knee replacement patients recieve at home physical therapy care to help speed up recovery.