Knee replacement. Coloured X-ray of a total knee Key Ring

AssetID: 122374312 / {DR P. MARAZZI} / Knee replacement. Coloured X-ray of a total knee _x000D_ _x000D_ Knee replacement , or knee arthroplasty , is a surgical procedure to replace the weight-bearing surfaces of the knee joint to relieve the pain and disability of osteoarthritis . It may be performed for other knee diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis. In patients with severe deformity from advanced rheumatoid arthritis , trauma, or long standing osteoarthritis, the surgery may be more complicated and carry higher risk. Osteoporosis does not typically cause knee pain, deformity, or inflammation and is not a reason to perform knee replacement. _x000D_ Other major causes of debilitating pain include meniscus tears, cartilage defects, and ligament tears. Debilitating pain from osteoarthritis is much more common in the elderly. _x000D_ Knee replacement surgery can be performed as a partial or a total knee replacement. In general, the surgery consists of replacing the diseased or damaged joint surfaces of the knee with metal and plastic components shaped to allow continued motion of the knee. _x000D_ The operation typically involves substantial postoperative pain, and includes vigourous physical rehabilitation. The recovery period may be 6 weeks or longer and may involve the use of mobility aids (e.g. walking frames, canes, crutches) to enable the patient's return to preoperative mobility. _x000D_ _x000D_ This page is not affiliated with, or endorsed by, anyone associated with the topic.