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Total Knee Replacement
| Arthritis of the knee is very commonly seen in our community. Osteoarthritis, inflammatory arthritis (such as rheumatoid arthritis, or post traumatic arthritis often lead to severe pain, stiffness and deformity of a joint. The Total Knee Replacement has revolutionised the way these conditions can be treated and now provides an excellent option for people who have exhausted all conservative treatment options.
Mr Richardson will assess whether a knee replacement is suitable for your particular problem, or if there is an alternative available to you. You will be given time to ask any question regarding the surgery proposed, and be given written literature about knee replacement surgery. If at all unsure about having knee replacement surgery, Mr Richardson would encourage you to make a further appointment to discuss any concerns you may have.
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The accurate placement of the components is vital to a good functioning knee replacement. Correct alignment minimises the chances of excessive wear and loosening, which is the major cause for revision surgery. Mr Richardson uses the latest computer guided technology when performing your total knee arthroplasty, which gives you the best chance of having a well functioning knee replacement that lasts as long as possible.
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| Minimally invasive Uni-compartmental Knee Replacement
Approximately 10-15% of people contemplating total knee replacement surgery will be suitable for a uni-compartmental knee replacement. In this particular type of surgery, only the area specifically affected by the arthritis is replaced, and not the entire knee.
One of the benefits of this type of surgery is a faster recovery, whilst maintaining excellent long-term pain relief. By retaining a large portion of your own knee, the knee continues to feel and move like a normal knee.
Mr Richardson when assessing your knee will determine whether a uni-compartmental knee replacement is suitable for you.
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| Revision Knee Replacement
Most people who have a knee replacement have excellent relief of pain and a restoration of their quality of life. However, some people develop pain, or problems with their knee replacement that requires further surgery. This may be due to wearing of the bearing surfaces, loosening of the components,
or infection. In this event you may need a revision of your knee replacement.
If you are having trouble with your knee following a total knee replacement, Mr Richardson will assess, and advise you or your options regarding a revision knee replacement, and whether this is appropriate.
Whilst over 90% of people undergoing a total knee replacement have a good to excellent result, there are always potential
problems which may complicate your recovery. Knee replacement surgery is major surgery, and while every effort is taken to minimise the risk of surgery, complications can still occur.
These include, but are not limited to
- Infection
- Deep venous thrombosis/ Pulmonary embolism (blood clots)
- Nerve injury
- Blood vessel injury
- Loosening
- Wear
- Instability
- Arthofibrosis, or stiffness
- Unexplained pain
- Medical complications
- Heart attacks
- Stroke
- Pneumonia etc
The nature of these complications and any other concerns you may have, are best discussed at the time of your consultation with Mr Richardson.
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