Information for Patients and Families | Anatomy | Arthritis | Partial Knee Replacement | Total Knee Replacement | What to Expect on Surgery Day | Post Operative Care | Knee Rehabilitation | Non-Surgical Alternatives | Life After Knee Replacement

Total Knee Replacement Surgery

Your knees work hard during your daily routine, and arthritis of the knee or a knee injury can make it hard for you to perform normal tasks. If your injury or arthritis is severe, you may begin experience pain when you’re sitting down or trying to sleep.

Sometimes a total knee replacement is the only option for reducing pain and restoring a normal activity level. If your and your doctor decide a total knee replacement is right for you, the following information will give you an understanding about what to expect.

A total knee replacement involves cutting away the damaged bone of the knee joint and replacing it with a prosthesis. This “new joint” prevents the bones from rubbing together and provides a smooth knee joint. At MDI Orthopedics, your surgery can be performed in the least invasive manner possible.

Click the image below to view a movie of how the total knee implant components work together...

Implant Components
In the total knee replacement procedure, each prosthesis is made up of four parts. The tibial component has two elements and replaces the top of the shin bone or tibia. This prosthesis is made up of a metal tray attached directly to the bone and a plastic spacer that provides the bearing surface.

The femoral component replaces the bottom of the thigh bone or femur. This component also replaces the groove where the patella, or kneecap, sits.

The patellar component replaces the surface of the knee cap, which rubs against the femur. The patella protects the joint, and the resurfaced patellar button will slide smoothly on the front of the joint.

At home you should begin ambulation with a cane as tolerated. Keep your incision clean and dry and watch closely for any signs of infection.

You’ll continue your home exercise program and go to outpatient physical therapy, where you will work on an advanced strengthening program and such programs as stationary cycling, walking, and aquatic therapy.

Your long-term rehabilitation goals are a range of motion from 100-120 degrees of knee flexion, mild or no pain with walking or other functional activities, and independence in all activities of daily living.

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