Human beings are quite fragile organisms as compared to other mammals. Our bodies are built differently and unique with a mind full of wired systems that help us to stay healthy. Over time, our bodies have adapted to many new things, both lethal and common, but not everything is easy to fight off—especially physical damages, hence the need for surgeries.
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What is a Knee Joint Replacement?
A knee joint replacement is a surgical treatment where an injured or damaged knee is replaced with an artificial joint or a prosthesis. It is also known as knee arthroplasty.
The artificial joint or prosthesis is usually made of metal, metal alloys, plastics, and polymers. Depending upon a patient’s personal information, like, age, weight, activity level, and overall medical history, the doctor will suggest the kind of prosthetic that the concerned patient might need.
One of the top reasons for people opting for a knee joint replacement is because of Arthritis, varying from Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Traumatic Arthritis, or arthritis due to injury.
The goal of the surgery is to mend the damaged joint in the knee and ease further pain.
The Method
- At the time of your surgery, you will be asked to change into a hospital gown.
- An IV line will be provided to you with the required fluids and nutrients.
- A urinary catheter may be inserted.
- You will be under anaesthesia with your heart rate, blood pressure, blood oxygen level during the procedure being continuously monitored.
- The procedure can last between 1-2 hours where the surgeon will make a cut in your knee, and while pulling the skin and muscle back, remove the damaged cartilage or bone.
- After the removal, the surgeon will go on to fix the new prosthesis to your femur and tibia using prosthesis cement, pins, and screws.
- Finally, the surgeon will close the cut with stitches and wrap a bandage.
After the surgery is complete, you will be taken to a recovery room where your vitals will be monitored, and you will be provided frequent physical therapy sessions to gain strength in your knee.
The Risks
Every medical procedure brings with it a few common complications and risks. Some of these commonly associated risks with a few rare ones coming from a Knee Joint Replacement includes –
- Bleeding
- Blood clots
- Breathing problems due to anaesthesia
- Knee stiffness
- Heart attack
- Nerve damage in the knee and
- Stroke.
Contact your doctor immediately if the following symptoms occur-
- Fever over 100°F
- Increasing pain around the cut
- Redness & swelling
- Chills
- Drainage from your surgical scar.
It is extremely important for a patient who underwent surgery to always keep their surgically cut area clean and dry due to the possibility of an infection. Bacteria, dirt, and other contaminants can easily enter our bodies through open wounds, so the patient must avoid germs as much as possible. If you do get a knee infection, the doctor might have to remove the prosthesis, treat your wound and then put it all back again, which can be troublesome.
A healthy body makes up for a healthy lifestyle. So to live your life worry-free, our health must be in excellent condition. With growing age, we are introduced to newer illnesses and weaknesses; it is our duty to keep ourselves healthy and give our bodies enough energy and immunity from outside. Always look for a safer way, avoid harm, and never indulge in risky activities that might damage our minds, physically or mentally. In short, let’s start taking better care of yourselves!
