What Is Involved in a Knee Replacement?
Knee replacement is a surgery that replaces worn joint surfaces with artificial parts. Many people seek it after pain limits walking, standing, or daily tasks, and imaging shows joint damage. Your surgeon reviews the joint, your health history, and your movement limits before surgery. Here is more information about this procedure and what is involved in it:
Removing Damaged Bones
During knee replacement surgery, the team positions your leg and cleans the area. The surgeon makes an incision, and the kneecap moves aside to expose the joint. Since arthritis wears away smooth cartilage, the ends of the femur and tibia need reshaping. Small cutting guides help remove damaged bone and cartilage.
The surgeon typically measures the joint first. Then they trim the lower femur and upper tibia, and they check alignment with precise tools. If the back of the kneecap shows wear, the surgeon may prepare that surface too. These steps create flat areas for the new parts.
Implanting Artificial Components
Artificial parts replace the joint surfaces. The femoral component covers the end of the thigh bone, and the tibial component sits on the shin bone. As each knee differs in size, the surgeon selects parts that match your anatomy. Trial components are typically placed first.
The team checks several points:
- Size
- Alignment
- Stability
After that check, the final components are inserted and fixed in place. Some implants use bone cement, but others rely on bone growth into the surface. When cement is used, it hardens quickly. The surgeon then confirms that the parts sit securely.
Substituting Joint Bones
A plastic spacer fits between the metal components. It creates a smooth surface for motion, and it helps the joint glide during bending. Since spacing affects knee tension, the surgeon tests different thicknesses before choosing one. Proper spacing also supports joint stability.
In some cases, the kneecap receives a plastic button. The surgeon resurfaces it if damage appears on the underside, and the new surface reduces direct bone contact. If the kneecap remains unresurfaced, the surgeon still inspects its tracking. That choice depends on wear patterns and joint structure.
The surgeon then cleans the surrounding area thoroughly to remove any bone debris or tissue fragments. This step minimizes the risk of post-surgical complications and ensures the components are properly secured. Once the knee is fully prepared, the new parts are carefully aligned to restore functionality and support smooth movement.
Restoring Mobility
After the implant is in place, the surgeon moves the knee through its range. They check how the joint bends and straightens, and they confirm that the kneecap tracks well. Since swelling starts soon after surgery, the team applies dressings and begins early recovery steps. The incision is then closed.
Soon after surgery, movement begins. A therapist may help you stand, and you start short walks with support. As muscles weaken before and after surgery, exercise focuses on strength and motion. Recovery plans vary by patient.
Typical early goals include:
- Straightening the knee
- Bending the knee
- Walking short distances
Schedule Knee Replacement Surgery
Knee replacement involves bone removal, implant placement, joint balancing, and guided rehabilitation. Each step follows a surgical plan, and each stage addresses a specific part of joint damage. As preparation and follow-up shape the process, clear instructions matter before and after surgery. If knee pain and stiffness limit your daily life, contact a qualified orthopedic provider to schedule an evaluation.
