OFFICE HOURS: Mon-Thu: 08h00-16h30 | Fri: 08h00-13h00 | Sat-Sun/Public Holidays: closed
Menu
OFFICE HOURS: Mon-Thu: 08h00-16h30 | Fri: 08h00-13h00 | Sat-Sun/Public Holidays: closed
A total knee replacement is a surgical intervention designed to supplant the diseased bone and cartilage of the knee joint with synthetic substitutes. The knee joint is comprised of the lower segment of the femur, or thigh bone, and the upper portion of the tibia, also known as the lower leg bone.
During this comprehensive procedure, the surgeon removes the end of the femur bone and affixes a metallic cap in its stead. This cap is securely held in position with bone cement, ensuring stability and longevity.
The procedure also involves replacing the upper end of the tibia bone. A surgeon excises this portion and substitutes it with a metal tibial tray. To secure this tray firmly in place, bone cement is once again utilized.
Afterward, a specialized plastic component made from highly crossed-linked polyethylene (HCLPE) is affixed to the tibial tray. This serves as a dynamic surface enabling smooth articulation between the metallic femoral cap and the tibial tray.
In cases where the patella, or kneecap, has considerable cartilage damage, a plastic button also made of HCLPE is employed to replace the afflicted cartilage. This comprehensive procedure allows for the restoration of knee function, offering patients relief from pain and improved mobility.
Please note that the helpful links link to an external source and that the info is only available in English.
Knee replacement surgery, also known as knee arthroplasty, can be classified into several types based on the extent of the surgery, the parts of the knee being replaced, and the kind of implants used. The following were the primary types:
Also known as total knee arthroplasty (TKA), this is the most common type of knee replacement surgery. It involves replacing all three components of the knee: the medial (inside), lateral (outside), and patellofemoral (front) compartments.
Also referred to as unicompartmental knee arthroplasty, PKR is performed when only one part (or compartment) of the knee is damaged or affected by arthritis. The surgery is less invasive than TKR and can lead to a quicker recovery. The most common type is the medial unicompartmental knee replacement, where only the medial compartment is replaced.
In this procedure, two of the three compartments of the knee are replaced. This is less common but may be an option for some patients.
In this type of surgery, only the under-surface of the kneecap and the front compartment of the knee are replaced. This can be a good option for patients whose arthritis is limited to this one area.
This is a procedure performed when a previous knee replacement surgery has failed due to various reasons such as wear, loosening, infection, or instability. The original implants are removed and replaced with new ones.
This type of surgery is usually performed in severe cases where the patient has significant bone loss due to arthritis, a previous fracture, or because a previous knee replacement has failed. These knee replacements provide more stability to the knee by using larger, more constraining implants.
It’s important to note that the choice of knee replacement surgery depends on several factors such as the patient’s age, overall health, activity level, and the extent of the knee damage. A discussion with a skilled orthopedic surgeon is the best way to decide the most suitable type of surgery for an individual’s specific circumstances.
Contact us to discover how we can provide you with personalized assistance. Together, we’ll explore a range of treatment options tailored to ensure a healthier, more comfortable, and pain-free life for you.
Knee replacement surgery, also known as knee arthroplasty, involves replacing a damaged, worn, or diseased knee with an artificial joint. It's a routine operation for knee pain caused by arthritis.
Knee replacement surgery is usually necessary when the knee joint is worn or damaged to the extent that your mobility is reduced and you experience pain even while resting.
The surgery is generally reserved for people over the age of 50 with severe osteoarthritis.
As with any surgical procedure, knee replacement surgery carries risks, including infection, blood clots, stroke, nerve damage, and complications from anesthesia. However, serious complications are rare.
The procedure typically takes about one to two hours.
Recovery can vary from person to person, but most people will need to use crutches or some kind of support for 4-6 weeks. After that, physical therapy typically continues for months.
A total knee replacement will last around 15-20 years in most patients, although this can vary.
Most people experience a significant reduction in pain and improvement in their mobility. However, it's important to have realistic expectations - you may not be completely free of pain, and it may take time to realize the full benefits.
Most knee replacements are made of metal alloys, high-grade plastics, and polymers.
It may be uncomfortable to kneel after knee replacement surgery. Some people can kneel without problems, while others experience discomfort.
You'll need to discuss this with your doctor. Symptoms like severe knee pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility that affect your quality of life and aren't improved by other treatments could suggest that you need a knee replacement.
You will not feel pain during the procedure as you will be under anesthesia. Post-surgical pain will be managed with medications.
Yes, a bilateral knee replacement is possible, where both knees are replaced during the same procedure. However, this decision depends on the patient's overall health and it's more challenging to recover from.
Anesthesia could be general (you're fully asleep), spinal (you're awake but can't feel anything from the waist down), or epidural (similar to spinal, but it can be topped up if the operation takes longer).
Knee replacement is a common and generally successful procedure. According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, more than 90% of people who have total knee replacement surgery experience a significant reduction in knee pain.
Recovery from knee replacement surgery varies greatly from person to person, but generally, the process can be divided into several stages:
You’ll be taken to the recovery room immediately after surgery where staff will monitor your vital signs. Pain management will begin at this stage. You’ll typically stay in the hospital for a few days depending on your overall health.
You’ll start physical therapy within the first 24 hours after surgery, and you may be asked to stand or even walk with assistance.
Once home, you’ll continue physical therapy. Exercises aim to restore joint movement and strengthen the knee. Pain can continue during this time, and managing it is an important part of recovery. It’s also important to take steps to prevent blood clots, such as taking prescribed medications and using compression devices.
By this point, you may be able to walk with minimal or no assistance, and may be capable of performing light activities. Most people can return to office work and other sedentary activities.
Physical therapy typically continues for months. Full recovery from the surgery could take up to three to six months, although some people may take as long as a year to fully recover.
Even after you’ve recovered, you’ll have to continue caring for your new knee. Avoid high-impact activities and maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on your knee. Regular low-impact exercise can help keep your knee strong and flexible.
Remember that while the artificial knee eliminates the pain of arthritis, it’s not a normal knee. You may have some limitations, and you’ll want to discuss these with your surgeon or physical therapist. Also, knee replacements can wear out over time, so if you’re a younger patient, you might eventually need a second knee replacement.
As always, the exact timeline and recovery process can vary greatly depending on the individual’s overall health, the specifics of their surgery, and their personal commitment to the rehabilitation process. Always consult with your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your situation.
Protection of Personal Information (POPI Act)
Dr. HR de Jongh Inc. acknowledges that it cannot contract out of the provisions of the POPI Act and, to this end, should the provisions of the POPI Act apply in respect of any of the services rendered in terms of this advertisement / recruitment / web-site etc., the provisions of the POPI Act will prevail over any provisions contained in the aforementioned that may be contrary to such provisions, provided that Dr. HR de Jongh Inc. expressly acknowledges that this clause will only apply in relation to aspects of the service/s to which the POPI Act will apply in law.
The Parties cannot sue each other or the Information Officer for any loss, damage or injury which they suffer unless: the Party being sued was grossly negligent; and the Party being sued has breached the provisions of the POPI Act.
Our mission is to return our patients back to pain-free mobility and full strength as quickly and as painlessly as possible using both surgical and non-surgical orthopedic procedures
Practice Number: 0713139
Room G17 Panorama Medi Clinic, Rothschild Boulevard, Parow, South Africa, 7500
Office Hours: Monday to Thursday – 08h00 to 16H30 Friday – 08h00 to 13h00
(closed on weekends & public holidays)
Design and Development by ip Webcraft
