A knee replacement is an operation that involves replacing some or all of the damaged joint with prosthetic materials, and this surgery’s medical name is knee arthroplasty. This procedure is performed to greatly reduce knee pain that does not respond well to nonsurgical treatments, such as cortisone injections, hyaluronic injections, or PRP (platelet-rich plasma) injections.
Knee replacement surgery is usually performed to relieve severe knee pain caused by arthritis. The surgery can be a partial knee replacement or a total knee replacement, depending on how much damage your knee has suffered.
Doctors have been performing knee replacements since the 1960s, and the technologies and techniques involved just keep getting better and better. Let’s talk about a few statistics related to knee replacement surgery, and where you can go in Palm Beach County for treatment that works to address your knee pain.
Almost 800,000 Knee Replacements Are Performed Each Year in the U.S.
Knee replacement surgery is such a popular procedure that it is estimated to be performed about 800,000 times annually in the United States alone, and that figure increases every year. Knee replacements are usually performed on an outpatient basis.
The type of knee surgery you have will depend on what exactly needs to be fixed, but a minimally invasive joint replacement can be done so you can go home later the same day. The benefits of this include a swifter recovery, less chance of acquiring an infection from being in the hospital, and, frankly, a greater feeling of satisfaction by the patient. However, if you have an infection or reaction during or after the surgery, the hospital will want to keep you overnight for observation.
About 90% of Knee Replacements Last 10 Years and 80% Last 20 Years
Knee replacement surgery has a high success rate. Patients tend to be very good at adhering to their recommended exercises, stretches, and physical therapy recommendations in order to ensure longevity of the new knee joint.
The recovery process and length differ for each person, but most patients get back to enjoying their normal activities within six weeks after the surgery. Complications from knee surgery are relatively rare, but they can include:
- Blood clots
- Infection
- Scar tissue forming inside the prosthetic knee
You Can Expect a Well-Maintained Knee Implant to Last up to 15 Years
With proper care and maintenance, your prosthetic knee should function well for 10 to 15 years. The implant will serve you for a long time if you refrain from high-impact activities that might dislocate or damage the implant. It greatly helps to maintain a healthy weight and to follow your doctor’s and physical therapist’s instructions.
Total Knee Replacement Surgery in Boynton Beach, FL
Knee replacement surgery is an effective treatment option for severe knee pain and advanced knee arthritis. With a new artificial joint, many patients are able to lead a more active life with less pain. A skilled orthopedic surgeon at Personalized Orthopedics of the Palm Beaches can help.
If you have any questions about us or would like to schedule an appointment, call our office today or fill out our online appointment request form. We look forward to giving your joints a new lease on life!
This article is for general education and is not medical advice. For advice about your condition, talk with your physician. Request an appointment with our team.
