Knee replacement (knee arthroplasty) is a surgical procedure to replace the damaged part of the knee joint surfaces to relieve pain and disability. It is performed for osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis and other other knee diseases. The damaged part of the joint is removed and the surfaces are then shaped to hold a metal or plastic artificial joint. The artificial joint is attached to the thigh bone, shin and knee cap either with cement or a special material. When fit together, the attached artificial parts form the joint, relying on the surrounding muscles and ligaments for support and function.
Knee Replacement vs Arthroscopic Surgery
Two factors should be used to determine whether or not a total knee replacement is required:
- The evidence and severity of damage to the existing joint
- The quality of life for the patient
Patients often come seeking a knee replacement when a cortisone injection might just as easily treat their problem. Then there are other patients who come seeking a knee replacement when other doctors have told them they are unwilling to provide such, even though the evidence of need is clear, simply because the patient needs to lose more weight. But how can one lose weight if it’s hard to move? In such cases, the question of quality of life comes into play. If the damage in your joints is making it almost impossible to move around, then a total knee replacement may be your best option.
Arthroscopic, minimally invasive knee surgery allows the doctor to insert a camera and to make minor repairs to your knee. But, if the x-rays and/or MRI shows that the damage is beyond repair, then a total knee replacement must be considered. Dr. Michael Boothby and Dr. Bret Beavers have performed countless total knee replacements. He is committed to taking whatever measures are necessary to restore you to an active lifestyle in as timely of manner as possible.
Our goal at OSMI is to provide our patients quality, cutting-edge orthopedic treatments, both surgical and non-surgical. If you have questions about total knee joint replacement surgery, joint pain, or physical therapy, please submit an online appointment request or contact our office at 817-529-1900.
Learn about the Types and Causes of Common Knee Injuries and Problems
- Types and causes of Knee Injuries and Problems
- Knee Anatomy
- Knee Pain and Injury Symptoms and signs
- When to Call your Doctor
- Treatment for Common Knee Injuries and Problems
- Ice or Heat for An Injury?
- Meniscus Tear
- Preventing Knee Injuries
- Knee Replacement
Our goal at OSMI is to provide our patients quality, cutting-edge orthopedic treatments, both surgical and non-surgical. If you have questions about knee arthroscopy or surgery, knee joint pain, or physical therapy, please submit an online appointment request or contact our office at 817-529-1900.