Total knee joint replacement

Restoring mobility and reducing knee pain

A total knee joint replacement is a common and highly effective surgery for individuals suffering from severe knee pain and stiffness. During the procedure, an orthopaedic surgeon removes the damaged portions of the knee joint and replaces them with durable, artificial parts made from metal and plastic. These new components mimic the function of a natural knee, allowing for smoother, pain-free movement.

Most patients who undergo a Total Knee Joint Replacement experience significant pain reduction and improved mobility, helping them return to the activities they love. Whether you're dealing with arthritis or knee injuries, this surgery can greatly enhance your quality of life by enabling easier walking and movement.

Who is a Candidate?

Patients with severe knee arthritis (usually osteoarthritis) causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
Those with symptoms which significantly impair daily activities (walking, climbing stairs, sleep).
Non-surgical treatments (physiotherapy, medications, injections, lifestyle changes) have failed.
Generally performed in patients >60 years, but younger patients may be candidates if symptoms are disabling.

Recovery Timeline

(May vary with provider)

• Hospital stay: 2–5 days
• Early recovery: Walking with aids usually within 24 hours
• Rehabilitation: Intensive physiotherapy begins immediately; focus on mobility, strength, and range of motion
• Return to daily activities: 6–12 weeks for most patients
• Full recovery: 6–12 months; progress varies by age, fitness, and complications.

Benefits

• Significant pain relief
• Improved mobility and independence
• Better quality of life and sleep
• High success rate: most patients experience long-term improvement.

Risks

• Surgical risks: infection, bleeding, blood clots
• Implant-related: loosening, wear, stiffness, instability
• Nerve or blood vessel injury (rare)
• Persistent pain or reduced range of motion
• Need for revision surgery (implants typically last 15–20 years).

This is just an outline. Your specialist orthopaedic surgeon will be able to talk to you about these issues in more detail and make sure that there is informed consent.