KNEE REPLACEMENT: PARTIAL AND TOTAL
- Method
- Partial or complete replacement of the knee joint for severe osteoarthritis
- Duration
- 60 to 120 minutes
- Recovery time
- 3 to 6 months
What is a knee replacement?
When every joint-preserving measure has been exhausted and the pain and the restriction in everyday life are considerable, an artificial knee replacement may become necessary. The aim of the procedure is to restore the function of the joint, to free the patient from pain and to improve quality of life markedly.
Depending on how far the osteoarthritis has advanced and which parts of the joint are affected, a distinction is made between the unicompartmental replacement (partial replacement) and the total knee replacement. Both procedures have been established for decades and are chosen individually according to anatomical and functional criteria.
Unicompartmental replacement (partial replacement)
This implant replaces only the medial (inner) or the lateral (outer) part of the joint. It requires the remaining parts of the joint – in particular the track of the kneecap and the collateral ligaments – still to be intact.
- A smaller approach and less damage to the soft tissue
- Faster rehabilitation and less blood loss
- The natural feel of movement is preserved
- A longer life span where the indication is right
Total knee replacement
The total knee replacement replaces the whole knee joint. It is used with extensive arthritic changes or with complex deformities. Modern implants consist of highly durable metal and plastic components and are anchored with or without cement.
- A well-established procedure with a high success rate
- Less pain and improved mobility
- Individual implants according to ligament stability and the state of the bone
- A life span of about 15-20 years, with revision possible
Rehabilitation after a knee replacement
Rehabilitation after a knee replacement is decisive for a good long-term result. It begins immediately after the operation and runs in several phases with increasing load and activity.
Phase I (0-2 weeks): early mobilisation in hospital
- Standing and walking with a physiotherapist from the first day after the operation
- Lymphatic drainage, cryotherapy and pain management
- A CPM splint to restore extension and flexion
- Thrombosis prophylaxis through movement and medication
Phase II (3-6 weeks): rehabilitation as an outpatient or inpatient
- Balance and co-ordination training
- Strengthening the thigh and gluteal muscles
- Working towards a symmetrical gait
- Mobility training: aim at least 90° of knee flexion by week 6
Phase III (from week 7): long-term build-up and transfer to everyday life
- Building up the capacity needed in everyday life (for instance climbing stairs, walking longer distances)
- Increasing the load through targeted strength and endurance exercises
- Sport-specific training (cycling, swimming, Nordic walking)
- Avoiding high impact loading (jogging and ball sports only once cleared)
Our knee replacement specialists
Experienced specialists for knee replacement and joint replacement surgery
