Total Knee Replacement

A knee replacement, or arthroplasty is a surgical procedure in which the arthritic portions of the knee are removed and replaced with a new, artificial joint. The operation involves removing the damaged surfaces of the knee and replacing them with an artificial joint containing metal and plastic component. It is an extremely successful operation for the vast majority of people. 
 
You will typically have a regional anaesthetic (spinal anaesthetic), or occasionally for medical reasons a general anaesthetic, and sedation. The operation will take between 1 and 2 hours.
 
A long cut, usually over the front of your knee is made. The bottom end of your thighbone is trimmed to remove the damaged surface and is then shaped to fit the metal bit of the knee replacement. The damaged top end of your shin bone is removed to make a flat surface. The new parts are fitted over both bones, and tested to make sure they fit and the joint works well. Once the new parts are fitted and working the wound will be closed using stitches or staples and covered with a large dressing. You may need a blood transfusion due to blood loss during the operation.