Knee arthritis is a chronic condition that occurs as a result of wear and tear on the cartilage in the knee joint. This can cause pain, limited movement, swelling, and difficulty with daily activities. Surgery may be necessary, especially in advanced stages of arthritis. Knee arthritis surgery, aims to improve the quality of life and restore knee functions.
Who is eligible for knee arthritis surgery?
Knee arthritis surgery is performed for patients with advanced knee arthritis. It is preferred for patients who do not benefit sufficiently from other treatment methods. This surgery is performed in cases where the cartilage tissue in the knee is completely worn away and there is serious damage to the joint. The aim is to improve the patient's quality of life and relieve pain.
Advanced stage arthritis can cause severe and constant pain in the knee. If there is pain that does not go away even during rest, surgical intervention may be necessary. Knee arthritis can seriously limit mobility. It is recommended for patients who cannot perform daily activities such as climbing stairs, walking, sitting down and standing up.
Physical therapy, medications, and intra-articular injections are usually the first treatment options. However, when these methods are inadequate, surgery is considered. Imaging methods can detect cases where joint damage is severe. In this case, surgery may be the patient's only option.
Calcification is generally more common in individuals over the age of 50. However, there may be cases where it is necessary in younger patients. As a result, knee arthritis surgery It is an effective treatment method. Before this decision is made, the patient's general health status and life expectancy are evaluated in detail.
How is Knee Arthritis Surgery Performed?
Knee arthritis surgery, is applied to patients with advanced osteoarthritis. This procedure is performed to repair or replace damaged tissues in the knee joint. Its main purpose is to reduce the patient's knee pain, improve joint functions and increase mobility. The method of surgery is determined by the patient's condition and the severity of the arthritis.
The most common method is total knee replacement surgery. In this method, the damaged cartilage and bone tissues in the knee joint are surgically removed. An artificial joint (prosthesis) made of metal and plastic materials is placed in its place. This prosthesis takes over the function of the natural knee joint and allows the patient to move without pain.
The surgery is performed under general or spinal anesthesia. This eliminates any pain during the surgery. The surgeon makes a small incision in the knee joint to remove calcified tissue and damaged cartilage. At the same time, the bone surfaces are made suitable for the placement of a prosthesis.
Specially prepared metal and plastic prostheses are placed in the cleaned joint. The prosthesis is firmly fixed to the bone and the joint is properly aligned. The surgeon closes the incision area and completes the operation. A sterile dressing is applied and the patient is taken to the recovery room.
The surgery usually takes 1-2 hours. After the surgery, patients can regain their mobility with physiotherapy. Knee arthritis surgery is a very effective method for reducing pain and improving the quality of daily life.
Post-Knee Arthritis Surgery Process
Knee arthritis surgery The postoperative period is very important for the rapid recovery of the patient. This surgery is performed by placing a knee prosthesis. The process should be followed carefully.
In the first days after the surgery, the patient begins to recover in a hospital environment under the supervision of a doctor. Painkillers are administered to reduce pain and antibiotics are administered to prevent the risk of infection. Stitches are regularly maintained and signs of infection are carefully monitored.
Physiotherapy is very important during this period. In the first 24-48 hours after surgery, the patient is encouraged to stand up slowly. The joint is strengthened with light exercises and movements under the guidance of experts. It may be necessary to use assistive devices such as crutches or walkers in the first days.
The healing process may vary from person to person. Most patients can return to their daily activities within 6-12 weeks. However, it may take several months for the prosthesis to fully settle and for full recovery to occur. Doctor check-ups should be frequent and the physical therapy program should be continued regularly.
Diet, sleep patterns, and general health affect healing. A healthy diet can speed up tissue healing. It is also recommended to avoid smoking and alcohol consumption after surgery.^Knee arthritis surgery It is very important to be patient in the post-operative period. Following the doctor's recommendations is decisive for a successful recovery.
