By Dr. Andrew Wassef, Guest columnist
Total knee replacements and partial knee replacements are commonly performed surgeries for seniors to address pain associated with arthritis.
Osteoarthritis is the most common type, which often causes debilitating pain, limited range of motion and instability of the knee joint. Persistent knee pain, despite conservative measures, such as medication and weight management, along with factors like knee deformity or limited functionality, may make seniors eligible for knee replacement.
If any of this applies to you, we’ll help you determine which knee replacement surgery is right for you by explaining the difference between the two below.
What is a total knee replacement?
Total knee replacement involves replacing the knee joint with artificial parts made of metal and high-grade polyethylene plastic.
This procedure is performed to alleviate severe pain caused by arthritis. Most patients are able to go home within one day of surgery. Recovery time varies, but most people can resume normal activities within four to six weeks.
Total knee replacement is an option when arthritis has progressed to all three compartments of the knee or when patients are ineligible for partial knee replacement. Total knee replacement is an option for seniors experiencing severe knee pain or stiffness resulting from degenerative joint disease (including osteoarthritis, traumatic arthritis or avascular necrosis), rheumatoid arthritis or post-traumatic arthritis of the entire knee.
Total knee replacement surgery offers several benefits for seniors with severe knee damage:
- Pain relief: Total knee replacement surgery replaces damaged bone and cartilage with artificial components, providing significant relief from chronic knee pain both during movement and at rest.
- Improved mobility and function: This surgery corrects leg deformities and restores normal joint function, allowing individuals to resume daily activities with improved mobility and range…
Read the full article here
