Total Knee Replacement

When more than one compartment of the knee is osteoarthritic and symptomatic and all conservative treatment options have failed to produce relief and return function, a total knee replacement can be performed.

It is important to note that the only indication for a primary total knee replacement is that the patient concerned has decided of their own accord that they are unable to cope any further with their native or natural knee. It is crucial that the decision as to when to do a total knee replacement is not based on the severity of x-ray changes but on the severity of symptoms.

A total knee replacement involves the shaping of all the bony surfaces within the knee to receive perfectly matched metal and polyethylene implants which resurface all compartments of the knee.

The goal of total knee replacement surgery is to return function and most importantly to relieve pain.

The results for total knee replacement world-wide are outstanding with excellent return to function and relief of pain in the majority of patients.