Knee Replacement (Conventional)

Conventional knee replacement is a traditional surgical procedure in which a surgeon manually removes damaged cartilage and bone from the knee joint and replaces them with standard, knee replacement implants that are made of highly researched materials such as Titanium, Cobalt-Chrome alloys, highly cross-linked polyethylene, and advanced ceramics—ensuring strength, durability, and excellent biocompatibility. This technique has been performed for decades with high success rates.

The procedure

Conventional knee replacement, also known as total knee arthroplasty, is typically recommended for patients with severe knee pain and mobility problems caused by conditions such as osteoarthritis.The general steps for a conventional total knee replacement include:

• Anesthesia: Usually, a combined spinal and epidural anaesthesia is used. This means patients are made numb from the waist down, and a very thin epidural tube (as thin as a hair) is placed in the back. Through this tube, pain-relieving medicines are given for the first 48 hours, ensuring a smooth and pain-free recovery in the immediate post-operative period.
• Incision: The surgeon makes a vertical incision, about 8 to 12 inches long, over the front of the knee to expose the joint.
• Bone preparation: Using standard surgical guides and instruments, the surgeon removes the damaged cartilage and bone from the ends of the femur (thigh bone) and tibia (shin bone).
• Implant insertion: TKR, metal components (cobalt-chromium or titanium alloys) are fixed to the bone, and a durable polyethylene spacer is placed between them to allow smooth, natural movement.
• Kneecap resurfacing: In some cases, the kneecap (patella) is also resurfaced with highly cross-linked polyethylene implant.
• Closure: The incision is closed with staples or stitches, and a sterile dressing is applied.

Recovery

Full recovery from conventional knee replacement can take months, but most patients start walking with assistance on the day of or day after surgery.

• Initial hospital stay: Patients typically stay in the hospital for 1 to 3 days for monitoring and rehabilitation.
• Physical therapy: A physical therapist will guide you through exercises to regain strength and range of motion, both during your hospital stay and for a period after you go home.
• Pain management: Pain and swelling are normal, but can be managed with prescribed medications and icing the knee.
• Mobility aids: You will progress from a walker to a cane and eventually to walking without assistance.
• Long-term recovery: While progress is gradual, it may take up to a year to achieve your best possible strength and stamina, depending on your health and activity level.