Knee Replacement
Knee replacement, or knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure that involves replacing the damaged or diseased weight-bearing surfaces of the knee joint with artificial implants. The goal of knee replacement surgery is to relieve pain, improve function, and restore mobility in individuals who are experiencing significant knee pain and disability.
Loading the player...
What to Expect From Knee Replacement Surgery Outcomes <p><a href="https://www.healthchoicesfirst.com/practitioner-type/orthopaedic-surgeon">Orthopedic Surgeon</a>, discusses What to Expect From Knee Replacement Surgery Outcomes.</p>Orthopedic Surgeon, discusses What to Expect From Knee Replacement Surgery Outcomes.
Loading the player...
Knee Replacement Surgical Options <p><a href="https://www.healthchoicesfirst.com/practitioner-type/orthopaedic-surgeon">Orthopedic Surgeon,</a> discusses Knee Replacement Surgical Options.</p>Orthopedic Surgeon, discusses Knee Replacement Surgical Options.
Loading the player...
Alternative Treatments for Knee Replacement Surgery <p><a href="https://orthopedics-now.com/practitioner/dr-bassam-masri-orthopaedic-surgeon-vancouver-bc">Orthopedic Surgeon</a><a href="https://www.healthchoicesfirst.com/practitioner-type/orthopaedic-surgeon">,</a> discusses alternative treatments to consider before having knee replacement surgery</p>Orthopedic Surgeon, discusses alternative treatments to consider before having knee replacement surgery
Knee Replacement Surgery Outcomes
knee replacement surgery can be highly beneficial for individuals with arthritis of the knee, providing relief from pain and improved functionality. The success rates you mentioned are generally accurate, with around 80 to 90 percent of patients experiencing good or excellent results after the operation.
However, it's important to note that individual experiences can vary, and there are potential risks and complications associated with any surgical procedure. While the majority of patients report high satisfaction levels, it's also true that a small percentage may not be as satisfied with the outcome. Some factors that can contribute to dissatisfaction include ongoing pain, limited range of motion, infection, implant-related issues, or unforeseen complications.
The figures you mentioned—80 percent extremely happy or ecstatic, 10 percent happy but not ecstatic, and 10 percent not happy at all—are approximate percentages based on general observations. These numbers provide a rough estimate of patient satisfaction levels after knee replacement surgery.
When considering any medical intervention, it's essential for patients to have a thorough discussion with their healthcare provider about the potential risks, benefits, and expected outcomes. This conversation can help manage expectations and ensure that the decision is made based on a comprehensive understanding of the procedure and its potential outcomes.
Knee replacement surgery is indeed a major procedure that involves a certain degree of pain and discomfort during the recovery period. Pain management techniques, such as local anesthetic infiltrations, blocks, and medications, are typically used in the hospital to ensure the patient's comfort.
After surgery, it is common to experience some level of pain for a relatively prolonged period. This pain is usually manageable with over-the-counter painkillers like Tylenol or Advil. It may take several months, up to six to nine months, for the pain to diminish to a more tolerable level. The full benefits of a knee replacement may not be realized until around nine to eighteen months post-surgery.
Regarding mobility and activities, patients usually start with a walker or crutches immediately after surgery, but can transition to a cane within a few weeks. The timeline for resuming activities like golfing, driving, swimming, and vigorous walking can vary for each individual but generally falls within the first few weeks to a couple of months after surgery.
Swelling and warmth in the knee, as well as bruising in the leg, are normal after a knee replacement and should gradually improve over time. Swelling may increase initially after leaving the hospital due to increased activity, but it is a normal part of the recovery process.
Numbness on the outside of the knee is also a common occurrence after knee replacement surgery. It is not painful or bothersome and should be expected.
It's crucial to consult with healthcare professionals, such as your family physician, orthopedic surgeon, physiotherapist, or rheumatologist, for personalized advice and guidance on your specific situation. They will have the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding your recovery process and can provide appropriate recommendations and support.