Positive results with total knee replacement

Janda Combs

Total Joint and Spine Center, RN

Q: What is arthritis and why does my knee hurt?
A: In the knee joint there is a layer of smooth cartilage on the lower end of the femur (thigh bone), the upper end of the tibia (shin bone) and the undersurface of the patella (knee cap). This cartilage serves as a cushion and allows for smooth motion of the knee. Arthritis is a wearing away of this smooth cartilage. Eventually it wears down to bone. Rubbing of bone against bone causes discomfort, swelling and stiffness.

Q. What is a total knee replacement?
A. A total knee replacement is really a cartilage replacement with an artificial surface. The cartilage, the patella, and some bony parts of the knee joint are replaced during a total knee replacement. This is done using a metal implant on the femur and the tibia to replace cartilage and a plastic button for the knee cap. This creates a new smooth cushion and a functioning joint that does not hurt.

Q. What are the common results of a total knee replacement?
A. Ninety to Ninety-Five percent of patients achieve good to excellent results with relief of discomfort and significantly increased activity and mobility.

Q. When should I have this type of surgery?
A. Your orthopedic surgeon will decide if you are a candidate for the surgery. This will be based on your history, exam, x-rays and response to conservative treatment. The decision will then be yours.

Q. Am I too old for this surgery?
A. Age is not a problem if you are in reasonable health and have the desire to continue living a productive, active life. You may be asked to see your personal physician for his/her opinion about your general health and readiness for surgery.

Q. What do I do if I want to learn more about the option of total knee replacement?
A. The Total Joint & Spine Center at BMH offers monthly hip and knee pain seminars where you can hear from the healthcare professionals that work with patients undergoing the procedures about your options. They are there to answer any questions you may have.

Janda Combs is a certified orthopedic nurse at the Total Joint and Spine Center at Ball Memorial Hospital. For more information on having a total knee replacement, send an email to info@chsmail.org.

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