Knee arthroplasty: what you need to know

Knee arthroplasty is a surgical procedure that aims to replace
damaged or worn surfaces of the knee joint with artificial implants. This surgery is usually recommended for patients who have severe knee pain and mobility problems that cannot be treated with other treatments.
Indications for knee arthroplasty:
Knee arthroplasty is usually recommended in patients with:
•Severe knee pain that interferes with daily activities
• Knee stiffness and limited mobility
•Inability to relieve pain with non-surgical treatments such as medications, physical therapy or intra-articular injections
• Chronic inflammation and swelling of the knee
•Advanced osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis or other degenerative joint diseases.
Procedure of knee arthroplasty:
Knee arthroplasty involves removing the damaged cartilage and bone from the knee joint and replacing it with a prosthetic implant. The procedure is usually performed under general or epidural anesthesia and takes about 1-2 hours. The knee arthroplasty procedure involves the following steps: after making the
incision, the surgeon removes the damaged bone and cartilage from the joint surfaces. He then places the prosthetic implants in the remaining part of the bone and closes the incision.
The most modern technique is MIS (minimally invasive surgery), which is performed with a smaller incision in the skin, does not involve a complete dissection of the quadriceps tendon and is accompanied by significantly less blood loss, minimizing the possibility of needing a transfusion.

Rehabilitation after knee arthroplasty:
After surgery, the patient remains in the hospital for 1-2 days before being discharged. The patient will be immediately instructed to mobilize, rise and walk using crutches or a walker for support, and will take a physical therapy program to improve knee mobility and strength. The patient is immediately functional and can
cope independently with daily activities. Full recovery with physiotherapy is possible within 4-6 weeks.

Results of knee arthroplasty:
Knee arthroplasty can significantly reduce knee pain, improve mobility and quality of life for patients with severe knee problems. The success rate of knee arthroplasty is generally high, with over 90% of patients experiencing significant pain relief and improved knee function. The
longevity of the recent prosthetic implants we now have can vary depending on factors such as patient age, activity level and implant type, but most patients enjoy successful knee replacement for approximately 15-20 years.
Benefits of knee replacement:
• Knee arthroplasty can significantly reduce knee pain caused by arthritis or other degenerative joint conditions. This can improve the patient's quality of life and allow them to perform daily activities without discomfort.
• Improved mobility: Knee arthroplasty can also improve mobility and range of motion of the knee. Patients may be able to walk or climb stairs more easily, which can improve their independence and quality of life.
•Increased functionality: Knee arthroplasty can improve knee function, allowing patients to participate in activities they may have avoided due to knee pain or stiffness. This can lead to a more active lifestyle.
•Long-term results: the results of knee arthroplasty last for 15-20 years or more. This means that patients enjoy the benefits for a long time and allows them to maintain a high level of quality of life.
•Improved mental health: Chronic knee pain can have a significant impact on a patient's mental health, leading to anxiety, depression and a reduced quality of life. Knee arthroplasty addresses this pain and improves the
patient's psychology, allowing them to feel better and be more willing and energetic for a more active daily life.

Knee replacement is a safe and effective treatment option for patients with severe knee pain and mobility problems. With proper medical care and rehabilitation, patients return to daily activities within weeks.

To learn more about knee arthroplasty, contact us at +30211 – 4057040, +306949196061 or orthopedikos-papagiannopoulos.gr and make your appointment.

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