Hundreds of thousands of knee replacement surgeries are performed in the U.S. each year. In orthopedic care, this procedure restores quality of life for patients who experience chronic pain in the knee joint. If you’re about to undergo this treatment, you probably have some questions about what to expect. While a doctor will clarify these questions before the operation, here's a general overview to help you in the meantime.

What to Know About Knee Replacement Surgery

How is it helpful?

Knee replacement surgery restores mobility and quality of life for patients whose knees have been damaged by degenerative conditions or trauma. It’s only done if conservative orthopedic care, such as strengthening exercises, has been or would be ineffective. The most common causes of bone wear for those who receive the treatment are arthritis, circulation issues, and deformities that interfere with knee comfort or function. 

What’s involved in the procedure?

Since the surgery involves general anesthesia, you’ll be comfortable and unaware the entire time. During the surgery, the doctor makes an incision over the knee and carefully removes damaged bone and tissue. 

Once the affected tissues are gone, the surgeon places a replacement joint made of medical-grade metal and plastic in the area before closing the incision. Depending on your needs, they may repeat the process with the other leg or only remove part of the bone.

How long does recovery take? 

Recovery times are unique for each patient. After surgery, you’ll usually spend a week or less in the hospital, then the doctor might have you transferred to an inpatient rehabilitation facility or extended care center for physical therapy.

After arriving home, you must continue physical therapy to regain a full range of motion. On average, patients can resume low-impact and standard daily activities within six weeks. Most patients are back to their normal routines without walking support after three months.

Is this a permanent solution?

Most replacement joints last 20 years or longer. Since the product is made of metal and plastic, it does wear down over time and eventually requires replacement.

Keep in mind that being overweight or having a physically demanding job can decrease the life span of these materials. The younger you are when receiving the procedure, the more likely it is that you’ll need another operation during your lifetime. 

If you're looking for orthopedic care, turn to AVORS Medical Group in Lancaster, CA. Serving the Antelope Valley, these doctors have over a decade of experience treating a range of conditions. They offer several options for damaged knees, including replacement surgery and arthroscopy. They also provide rehabilitation services to help you recover. Learn more about their process online, and call (661) 726-5005 for a consultation.