A typical total knee replacement surgery usually takes between 1 and 2 hours while the surgeon replaces the diseased surfaces of the knee joint with implants. The implants are designed to enable the replacement joint to move in the same manner as a normal healthy joint.
In total knee replacement, the end of the femur, or thigh bone, and top of the tibia or shin bone are resurfaced. The artificial knee implant is composed of metal and polyethylene a durable medical grade plastic and is designed to bend and rotate in a similar manner to a normal knee. If the patella (or knee cap) is also affected by disease or injury, its surface can be replaced with an implant.
The knee implants can also be positioned with or without cement. Your doctor will discuss which type of implant is best for you.
Many knee replacements can last 10 to 15 years or more, but all replaced joints wear with time and may require revision surgery (another operation). Some of the newer materials can mean joint replacements last longer. Your activity levels and weight are 2 factors that influence the rate of wearl.
By understanding the activities to avoid, you can also prolong the life of your new joint. Visit www.drdeepakinamdar.com for more information on knee replacement.
