Total Knee Replacement (TKR): Restoring Mobility & Quality of Life

Introduction & Overview

Total Knee Replacement (TKR), also known as Total Knee Arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure that replaces a damaged or worn-out knee joint with an artificial implant. It is typically performed in patients suffering from severe knee pain and disability due to osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or traumatic injury.

The surgery involves removing damaged bone and cartilage from the thighbone (femur), shinbone (tibia), and kneecap (patella), and replacing them with **metal and plastic components** that replicate the knee's natural movement.

TKR is considered one of the most successful orthopedic procedures, significantly reducing pain, improving mobility, and enhancing quality of life.

Conditions Treated with TKR

Osteoarthritis: The most common reason for knee replacement due to cartilage wear.

Rheumatoid Arthritis: Autoimmune inflammation causing joint damage.

Post-Traumatic Arthritis: Arthritis resulting from knee injuries.

Avascular Necrosis: Bone tissue death due to lack of blood supply.

Knee Deformities: Conditions such as bow-legged or knock-kneed alignment.

Severe Knee Injuries: Irreparable joint damage requiring surgical intervention.

Biological & Medical Insights

The knee joint, the largest in the body, is prone to wear and tear over time, leading to **cartilage degeneration**.

Loss of cartilage results in **bone-on-bone contact**, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.

Artificial knee implants are designed to mimic natural movement and withstand daily stress.

Procedure: Step-by-Step

Pre-Operative Assessment:

• X-rays & MRI: Assess joint damage.
• Blood Tests & Physical Therapy Evaluation: Ensure patient fitness for surgery.
• Pre-operative Education: Patients are guided on post-surgical recovery.

Surgical Process:

• Performed under **general or spinal anesthesia**.
• Damaged cartilage and bone are removed from the knee joint.
• **Metal components** are attached to the **femur and tibia**, with a **plastic spacer** inserted for smooth movement.
• The **patella may be resurfaced** if necessary.

Post-Operative Care:

• Early mobilization is encouraged to **prevent stiffness and blood clots**.
• Physical therapy begins within 24 hours post-surgery.
• **Pain management** and **blood clot prevention** protocols are followed.

Before & After Treatment

Before: Severe knee pain, stiffness, reduced range of motion, and difficulty walking.

After: Improved joint function, significant pain relief, and restored mobility.

Advantages of TKR

✔ Long-lasting pain relief.

✔ Enhanced joint stability and mobility.

✔ Improved quality of life.

Precautions & Risks

Potential Risks: Infection, blood clots, nerve injury, implant wear or loosening over time, and stiffness due to improper rehabilitation.

Insights

✔ **Modern knee implants** can last 20+ years with proper care.

✔ **Robotic-assisted TKR** offers greater precision and faster recovery.

✔ **Weight management & physical therapy** significantly improve long-term outcomes.

Why Choose MediHelp for TKR?

✔ Experienced Orthopedic Surgeons: Skilled in both traditional and robotic-assisted TKR.

✔ Customized Implants: Tailored to match individual anatomy.

✔ Comprehensive Rehabilitation Programs: Designed to maximize post-operative recovery.

✔ Minimally Invasive Techniques: For faster healing and reduced post-op pain.