Knee Replacement

If you suffer from knee pain, swelling, and stiffness that doesn't respond to medications or walking supporters, knee replacement might be the answer for you. The team of orthopedic specialists at Artemis Health in Santa Monica and Torrance, California can help you determine if you might benefit from this type of treatment. The providers at Artemis Health highly skilled surgeons who offer the latest in knee replacement surgery. The operation helps you regain your daily routine and quality of life. Call or go online to schedule an appointment today.

What is knee replacement?

Knee replacement surgery involves removing the damaged cartilages at the end of your thigh bone and replacing them with a metal alloy implant, along with a plastic spacer on the tibia and kneecap (patella). The implant creates a new, smooth cushion for the bones and a functioning, painless joint.

The surgery can be partial or total, and your doctor at Artemis Health helps you determine which one you need.

What are the conditions that require knee replacement surgery?

Your surgeon at Artemis Health advises knee replacement when less invasive and conservative treatments have failed to relieve your knee pain. Other conditions for which knee replacement surgery is beneficial are:

• Knee stiffness and swelling
• Moderate to severe resting pain  
• Severe limitations of activity
• Knee deformity
• Juvenile arthritis

How do I prepare for the surgery?

After you decide to have knee replacement surgery, your doctor at Artemis Health advises you to stop taking certain medications. You also need to undergo several lab tests, along with medical and dental evaluations.

If you live alone, you should seek assistance from a loved one to help you with daily activities after the surgery. If this is not possible, it’s important to make arrangements at an extended care facility before returning home.

For a safe and speedy recovery, you may have to make several modifications at home, such as:

• Remove all loose carpets and cords
• Secure handrails along your stairways
• Obtain a toilet seat riser with arms
• Secure bars and a bench in your shower
• Find a stable and firm chair  

What does the surgery entail?

You won’t feel any pain during surgery because of the anesthesia.

To begin, your doctor moves aside your kneecap and cuts away the damaged joint surfaces. He then prepares the joint surface and attaches the new metal and plastic implant on the thigh bone and shin bone, respectively. He checks for alignment and proper functioning before closing the incision.

After surgery, your doctor prescribes painkillers and blood thinners for comfort and to prevent blood clots.

In most cases, you can start using your repaired knee on the day of surgery. Hose or a compression bandage is recommended, and you can take short walks with the help of crutches or a walker.

Physical therapy begins the day after surgery to restore movement and help strengthen the muscles around the new joint. As you continue healing, physical therapy is advised 3-4 times a day for the first few weeks.

To learn more about this valuable procedure, call or schedule an online appointment today.