Knee replacement surgery (Total and Partial)

Need to know

• What happens icon plus

  Knee replacement surgery is carried out under general anaesthetic or regional anaesthetic. Your surgeon will make a cut at the front of your knee and remove any damaged bone and cartilage in the joint. An artificial joint implant – made of metal and plastic – is then fitted into place. Your surgeon will stitch the area, usually putting in a small drain to remove any fluid for the first day after surgery. The whole procedure takes one to two hours.

• How to prepare icon plus

  Before surgery, your consultant will evaluate your knee condition to determine whether a total or a partial knee replacement is right for you. This will involve a physical examination to assess the current range of movement in your knee and how stable it is. Your consultant will also arrange an X-ray. Following a full assessment, you consultant will discuss treatment options with you, which may include surgery. You consultant will also discuss the potential risks and side effects of surgery with you.

• Afterwards icon plus

  You'll usually be cared for in hospital for three to five days following your operation. You'll be encouraged to stand up and walk with the help of crutches or a walker as soon as possible. Your consultant will recommend physiotherapy exercises to help to build strength back in your knee and legs. You'll need to use crutches or a walker to move around for a few weeks after surgery. You should consider arranging for a friend, a family member or a carer to help you with tasks such as shopping, bathing and laundry during this time. Your consultant will let you know when you can get back to your usual routine, including work or exercise.