Knee replacement is a commonly performed operation for severe knee symptoms usually caused by osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is a gradual process in which the surfaces of the knee become damaged and wear away. The bones on either side of the knee joint are usually covered with a hard, smooth layer of cartilage that protects it and allows the surfaces to glide smoothly over each other. This surface can be damaged by injury or general wear and tear. When the process becomes advanced the underlying bone is uncovered. This causes pain, swelling and stiffness because the surface is no longer smooth and the nerve endings in the bone are exposed.
Osteoarthritis of the knee is a very common condition. It can occur in young people following injuries, but most commonly occurs in older people. Factors that cause osteoarthritis include previous knee injury, obesity, and a family history of osteoarthritis.
Although a majority of knee replacement surgery is done to treat osteoarthritis of the knee, the surgical treatment can be used to treat a knee that is affected by a range of conditions, including:
Make sure your orthopaedic surgeon has your complete medical history, mention any allergies or illness you may have and be sure to disclose information on all medication or supplements you may be taking. Before a total knee replacement surgery, our doctors will advise you in detail on how you can prepare and what care you need to take after.