Total Knee Replacement

What is total knee replacement?

Your knee joint consists of bones, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and cartilage. Over time, or if you develop an injury or debilitating disease, the joint can wear down and become painful. If conservative treatments haven’t worked to relieve knee discomfort, total knee replacement might be the best option for you.

During the procedure, your specialist replaces all parts of your knee joint with artificial components.

Why would I need a total knee replacement?

A common reason for total knee replacement surgery is osteoarthritis, a chronic condition that causes pain and joint degeneration over time. If you experience discomfort while climbing stairs, walking, getting in and out of chairs, or even during rest, you might be a candidate for total knee replacement at Los Angeles Orthopaedic Center.

Is knee replacement right for me?

To find out which knee pain treatment is best for you, specialists at Los Angeles Orthopaedic Center discuss your medical history and symptoms. They examine your knee to look for signs of injuries and diseases. They also evaluate strength, pain levels, and knee joint range of motion.

Your provider might recommend you complete blood tests, X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, or ultrasounds to get an in-depth view of the inside of your knee joint and develop an effective treatment plan.

How should I prepare for total knee replacement?

To prepare for total knee replacement, don’t smoke and stop taking certain medicines if your surgeon asks you to. Don’t eat or drink anything the morning of the procedure if necessary, and arrange for someone to drive you home and stay with you after surgery.

What happens during total knee replacement surgery?

Before knee surgery, your provider numbs the treatment area and offers you a sedative or gives you general anesthesia to help you fall asleep. 

They make a tiny incision in your knee and use a robotic arm or other innovative surgical tools to remove damaged knee joint parts. Your surgeon replaces the joint with manufactured components to restore the knee. They close the incisions and take you to a recovery area, where medical staff members monitor your vital signs.

What should I expect after my procedure?

After total knee replacement surgery, you might stay in the surgical center for a day or two or go home the same day. Have a friend or family member drive you home and help care for you. Rest your knee, ice it as needed, and take medications as directed by your surgeon. 

Slowly increase physical activity when your provider says it’s okay and go to physical therapy sessions. Attend all follow-up appointments at Los Angeles Orthopaedic Center to ensure you recover properly. 

Don’t live with severe or ongoing knee discomfort when you don’t have to. Call the Los Angeles Orthopaedic Center office to schedule an appointment or book one online today to find out if total knee replacement is right for you.