PROCEDURES
TOTAL KNEE REPLACEMENT

Taking the conservative approach to his field, Dr Joubert prides himself in recommending surgery only when really needed. When all other treatment options have been explored for severe pain and disability of the knee due to osteoarthritis, rheumatoid- or post-traumatic arthritis, surgery may be considered.

HOW IS A TOTAL KNEE REPLACEMENT DONE?

A total knee replacement, otherwise known as arthroplasty, is done by removing the damaged cartilage and bone from the knee and replacing it with prosthetic components made from metal, ceramic, and plastic. When performing this kind of surgery, the knee joint is accessed through an incision across the front of your knee. The knee is the joint between the shin bone and thigh bone and therefore to re-build the knee, once the damaged bone and cartilage is removed, both the thighbone and shinbone are prepped for the prosthetic components. Once the prosthetics have been cemented to the shin bone and thighbone, the prosthetic kneecap is fixed into place, and the mobility of the new joint is tested before closing the incisions.

WHAT WILL RECOVERY ENTAIL?

After a major surgery such as this, you can expect some pain and swelling for the next few weeks. Recovery will depend on the severity of arthritis and how much bone and cartilage was removed during surgery. Dr Joubert will discuss rehabilitation, physical therapy, and any lifestyle changes that might be required after a total knee replacement, but your overall experience of pain should be much better within a month of surgery.