To understand different knee replacement options, it's helpful to know the knee's anatomy. The knee joint is typically divided into three main compartments:

1. Medial Compartment:The inner side of the knee (where the thigh bone and shin bone meet).This is the most common site for arthritis.
2. Lateral Compartment: The outer side of the knee (where the thigh bone and shin bone meet).
3. Patellofemoral Compartment: The front of the knee, involving the kneecap (patella) and the groove in the thigh bone (femur) where it glides.

A Total Knee Replacement (TKR) is the most common type of knee replacement surgery. It involves replacing the entire surface of all three compartments of the knee joint. The damaged cartilage and a small amount of underlying bone from the end of the thigh bone (femur), the top of the shin bone (tibia), and often the underside of the kneecap (patella) are removed and replaced with artificial components (implants) made of metal and plastic. TKR is typically recommended when arthritis or damage affects multiple compartments of the knee.

TKR is typically recommended for individuals experiencing severe knee pain, stiffness, and functional limitations due to conditions like:

• Osteoarthritis: The most common reason, where cartilage wears away.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis: An inflammatory autoimmune disease affecting joints.
• Post-traumatic Arthritis: Arthritis resulting from a knee injury.
• Other conditions causing significant knee joint degeneration

The primary benefits of TKR include:

• Significant reduction or complete relief from chronic knee pain.
• Improved knee function and mobility.
• Enhanced quality of life, allowing a return to many daily activities.
• Correction of knee deformities.

As with any major surgery, TKR carries potential risks, though serious complications are rare.
These can include:

• Infection of the joint.
• Blood clots (DVT or PE).
• Nerve or blood vessel damage.
• Fractures during or after surgery.
• Stiffness or limited range of motion after surgery.
• Loosening or wear of the artificial components over time.
• Allergic reactions to materials.

Your surgeon will discuss these risks in detail with you.

The actual surgery typically takes between 30 minutes to 1 hours, but the entire process, including preparation and recovery in the operating room, will take longer.

TKR can be performed under general anesthesia (where you are completely asleep) or regional anesthesia (like a spinal or epidural, where you are awake but numb from the waist down, often with sedation). Your anesthesiologist will discuss the best option for you.

The typical hospital stay is usually between 1 to 3 days, depending on your recovery progress and hospital protocols. Some patients may be candidates for outpatient or same-day surgery if they meet specific criteria.

Recovery involves several phases:

• Early Post-Op (Hospital): – Pain management, starting to move the knee, and beginning physical therapy. You'll likely use a walker or crutches and may walk without support depending on your muscle strength.
• Rehabilitation (Weeks 1-4): – Intensive physical therapy to regain strength, flexibility, and mobility. You'll progress from a walker to crutches, then a cane, and eventually walk independently.
• Long-Term Recovery (Months 2-12+): – Continued exercises to build strength and endurance. Most significant recovery occurs within the first 1-3 months, but full recovery can take up to six months to a year or more.

Absolutely. Physical therapy is a crucial and non-negotiable part of your recovery. It starts soon after surgery and continues for 3 - 4 weeks or 1-3 months to help you regain strength, flexibility, and the ability to walk and perform daily activities.