Total Knee Arthroplasty

Total Knee Arthroplasty also valled is knee replacement. The operation is performed under general anesthesia. Knee is a complex joint, which is made up of the distal end of the femur (the femoral condyles), and the proximal end of the tibia (the tibial plateau). Materials used for resurfacing of the joint are not only strong and durable but also optimal for joint function as they produce as little friction as possible. The femoral condyles usually glide smoothly on the tibial plateau, allowing for smooth, painless motion of the lower leg. This surgery involves replacing your knee joint with a manmade one. The "artificial joint or prosthesis" generally has two components, one made of metal which is usually cobalt -chrome or titanium. The other component is a plastic material called polyethylene. The most common problems with a knee joint replacement premary is Fractures secondry is Pain from slippage and wear in the new joint and oter common problem is Infection of the joint and blood clot in a vein (deep venous thrombosis) above or below the knee (Clots occur most commonly shortly after replacement surgery.)

Total Knee Arthroplasty symptoms is fever and Pain. Blood clots tend to form during the period ("post-op," or "post-operatively"). Severe osteoarthritis of the hip and knee have revealed that siblings of individuals undergoing joint replacement are 3-5 times more likely to require similar surgery than age-matched controls. Many people who fall after having a knee replacement break the bone below the new joint on which the new knee is anchored. Pain and swelling occur at or near the site of the knee joint replacement. The knee joint performs similar to a hinge joint. It consists of three bones first is Thigh bone (Femur). Second is Leg bone (Tibia) and last is Knee cap (Patella). The surfaces of all three bones coming into contact with each other are normally covered with a smooth gliding surface known as articular cartilage The condition of this cartilage lining the knee joint is a key aspect of normal knee function and is important to the physician when evaluating a potential need for a knee joint replacement.

Total Knee Arthroplasty is Recommended for

• Knee pain.
• Knee pain that limits or prevents activities of importance to the patient.
• Arthritis.
• Decreased knee function caused by arthritis.
• Inability to sleep through the night because of knee pain.
• Some tumors involving the knee.

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