Total Knee Replacement
What is a Total Knee Replacement?
A Total Knee Replacement, also called Total Knee Arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure that replaces a worn or damaged surfaces of the knee joint with an artificial prosthesis.
The aim is to relieve pain, restore movement, and improve day-to-day function when other treatments such as physiotherapy, medication, or injections are no longer effective.
When is it needed?
You may be considered for a Total Knee Replacement if you experience:
- Persistent knee pain that limits walking, sleeping or daily activities
- Stiffness or swelling that does not improve with rest or exercise
- A feeling of grinding, instability, or the knee giving way
- Difficulty bending, climbing stairs, or getting up from chairs
- Poor quality of life due to restricted movement or reliance on pain relief
Diagnosis is usually confirmed through examination and X-ray imaging, which will enable Mr Beattie to assess the extent of your joint damage and determine whether a Total Knee Replacement is appropriate.
What happens during surgery?
During a Total Knee Replacement, which is performed under spinal or general anaesthesia, the damaged surfaces of the knee joint are carefully removed and replaced with artificial components made of metal and plastic. These are shaped to mimic the natural movement of the knee.
The procedure may also involve resurfacing the back of the kneecap depending on individual anatomy.
Modern techniques aim to minimise disruption to surrounding tissue and use implants that allow smooth, stable movement.
Recovery and aftercare
Following a Total Knee Replacement, most patients begin standing and walking with support on the day of surgery or the following day.
Physiotherapy focuses on regaining movement and building strength. Walking aids such as a frame or crutches are usually required for several weeks.
Activity levels gradually increase over time. Many people return to driving and light tasks within 4 to 6 weeks, although full recovery can sometimes take several months.
Risks and considerations
As with any surgery, there are potential risks with a Total Knee Replacement which include:
- Infection
- Blood clots
- Stiffness
- Implant wear or loosening over time
- Rare need for a Revision Hip Replacement in the future
Complications are uncommon when surgery is carried out by an experienced specialist.
Mr Beattie will guide you through whether a Total Knee Replacement is right for your specific needs, discuss any personal considerations, and ensure that you feel comfortable and fully informed before moving forward.
Contact Mr Beattie
PERSONALISED HIP & KNEE CARE
Other Patient Services
Mr Beattie's range of Patient Services extends beyond Total Knee Replacement to address all aspects of hip and knee care.
Total Hip Replacement
When hip pain makes walking, sleeping or daily activity difficult, Total Hip Replacement offers lasting relief by replacing the damaged joint with a smooth, durable implant designed to restore mobility and confidence.
Robotic Partial Knee Replacement
When arthritis affects only one side of the knee, Robotic Partial Knee Replacement can relieve pain while preserving more natural movement, offering a quicker recovery than a full replacement.
Revision Hip Replacement
If a previous implant becomes painful, loose or worn, Revision Hip Replacement surgery replaces or adjusts the original joint replacement to restore movement and relieve discomfort.
Revision Knee Replacement
Over time, a knee replacement may loosen or wear out. Knee Revision Surgery removes the old implant and fits a new one to improve function, relieve pain, and support long-term stability.
Knee Arthroscopy
Knee Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a small camera to diagnose and treat joint problems such as torn cartilage or loose fragments with faster recovery than open surgery.