Knee replacement surgery

Knee replacement surgery (arthroplasty) is a common operation that involves replacing a damaged, worn or diseased knee with an artificial joint.

Adults of any age can be considered for a knee replacement, although most are carried out on people between the ages of 60 and 80.

A smaller operation called a partial knee replacement tends to be performed on younger people aged between 55 and 64 where the artificial joint is expected to need redoing within 10 years.

When a knee replacement is needed?

Knee replacement surgery is usually necessary when the knee joint is worn or damaged so that your mobility is reduced and you are in pain even while resting.

The most common reason for knee replacement surgery is osteoporosis. Other health conditions that cause knee damage include:

1. rheumatoid arthritis
2. haemophilia
3. gout
4. disorders that cause unusual bone growth
5. death of bone in the knee joint following blood supply problems
6. knee injury
7. knee deformity with pain and loss of cartilage

Who is offered knee replacement surgery

A knee replacement is major surgery, so is normally only recommended if other treatments, such as physiotherapy or steroid injections, have not reduced pain or improved mobility.

You may be offered knee replacement surgery if:

1. you have severe pain, swelling and stiffness in your knee joint and your mobility is reduced
2. your knee pain is so severe that it interferes with your quality of life and sleep
3. everyday tasks, such as shopping or getting out of the bath, are difficult or impossible
4. you're feeling depressed because of the pain and lack of mobility
5. you cannot work or have a social life

Types of knee replacement surgery

There are 2 main types of surgery:

1. total knee replacement – both sides of your knee joint are replaced
2. partial (half) knee replacement – only 1 side of your joint is replaced in a smaller operation with a shorter hospital stay and recovery period

Recovering from knee replacement surgery

Most people can stop using walking aids around 6 weeks after surgery, and start driving after 6 to 8 weeks.

Full recovery can take up to 2 years as scar tissue heals and your muscles are restored by exercise. A very small amount of people will continue to have some pain after 2 years.