Knee arthroplasty

Knee joint replacement surgery, also known as knee arthroplasty, is a medical procedure aimed at replacing a damaged or diseased knee joint with an artificial implant. This surgery is often recommended to relieve pain and restore function in patients suffering from significant knee damage due to conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or traumatic injuries. At Dobrobut Medical Network, experienced orthopedic surgeons use the latest techniques and high-quality prostheses to ensure expected outcomes and improve patients' quality of life.

When to Consult a Doctor

It is important to consult with a doctor if you experience the following symptoms of knee joint damage:

Persistent knee pain that interferes with daily activities.
Significant swelling in the knee.
Limited range of motion or stiffness in the joint.
Difficulty standing, walking, or climbing stairs.
Deformity or instability of the knee joint.
Ineffectiveness of conservative treatments, such as medication or physiotherapy.

Early detection of these symptoms and consultation with a specialist at Dobrobut Medical Network can ensure timely diagnosis and effective treatment.

Indications and Contraindications

Indications for Knee Joint Replacement:

Severe forms of arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis).
Knee joint deformities.
Traumatic knee injuries.
Chronic knee pain and impaired mobility not responsive to conservative treatment.

Contraindications:

Acute infection in the knee or exacerbation of other diseases.
Severe muscle weakness or neurological conditions affecting the lower limbs.
Medical conditions or comorbidities that increase the risk of surgery.
Obesity, which can affect the lifespan of the implant.

A comprehensive evaluation at Dobrobut Medical Network will help determine the need for knee replacement surgery and assess possible contraindications, considering the patient's overall health and clinical situation.

Preparation

Preparation for knee joint replacement surgery begins with thorough diagnostics to assess overall health and the degree of knee damage. The orthopedist may prescribe exercises to improve knee joint function before surgery. Additionally, arrangements for mobility aids during the rehabilitation period are necessary.

Procedure

Knee joint replacement is performed under anesthesia and usually takes several hours. The procedure typically includes the following stages:

Incision: A surgical incision is made over the knee to access the joint.
Removal of damaged tissue: Damaged cartilage and bone are carefully removed.
Implant placement: New prosthetic components, usually made of metal and plastic, are placed to restore the knee joint function.
Closure: The incision is closed with stitches or staples, and a sterile bandage is applied.

After the surgery, the patient is transferred to the recovery unit for observation.

Recovery

Rehabilitation is a crucial period that ensures the overall treatment outcome. Hospitalization usually lasts several days, during which observation, pain management, and initial physiotherapy are provided. Physiotherapy aims to restore strength and mobility, often continuing for several weeks or months. After discharge, patients should adhere to wound care instructions, medication regimens, and a gradual return to activity. Complete recovery can take several months, but following recommendations aids in healing and outcomes.

Complications

Knee replacement is typically a safe procedure, but potential complications include:

Infection at the surgical site.
Blood clot formation.
Implant issues, such as loosening or wear.
Persistent knee pain or stiffness.

Regular postoperative check-ups help in early detection and management of these complications.

Prevention

While not all knee joint problems can be prevented, certain measures can reduce the risk of developing severe conditions that may lead to surgery. Preventive steps include:

Maintaining a stable weight to reduce knee strain.
Regular low-impact exercise to strengthen the muscles around the joint.
Avoiding activities that increase the risk of knee injury.
Timely treatment of knee pain or injuries.

By following these guidelines, patients can enhance joint health and potentially delay or avoid the need for knee replacement. If symptoms of knee degeneration appear, it is advisable not to postpone consultation, but to undergo evaluation and receive all necessary recommendations.