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Knee Pain

• Understanding Knee Pain
  • Causes of Knee Pain
  • Treating Knee Pain
  • Orthopaedic Evaluation
  
  
• Stryker Treatment Options
  
  
• Take Control
  
  
• Real Stories from Knee Replacement Recipients
  
  

Treating Knee Pain

What You Should Know About Knee Joint Replacement

"Joint Replacement" (the term orthopaedic surgeons use) is usually reserved for patients who have severe arthritic conditions. Most patients who have artificial knee joints are over 55 years of age, but the operation is being performed in greater numbers on younger patients thanks to new advances in artificial joint technology. Circumstances vary, but generally patients are considered for total joint replacement if:

• Functional limitations restrict not only work and recreation, but also the ordinary activities of daily living.
• Pain is not relieved by more conservative methods of treatment — such as medications, physical therapy, or arthroscopy (cleaning the joint) — by the use of a cane, and/or by restricting activities.
• Stiffness in the joint is significant.
• X-rays show advanced arthritis or other problems.

What Is Total Knee Replacement Surgery?

Total joint replacement is a surgical procedure in which certain parts of an arthritic or damaged joint, such as a knee joint, are removed and replaced with a prosthesis, or artificial joint. The artificial joint is designed to move just like a normal, healthy joint. In total knee replacement, the artificial joint is composed of metal and polyethylene to replace the diseased joint. The artificial joint is most commonly anchored into place with bone cement. In some applications, it is covered with a porous coating that allows bone tissue to grow into it.

Find an Orthopaedic Doctor Search for Orthopedic Doctors in your area. Receive the names and addresses of Orthopedic Doctors who have used or are familiar with Stryker products.

Possible Complications of Knee Replacement Surgery

Serious complications may occur with any surgical procedure. These include but are not limited to: problems with anesthesia, cardiovascular problems including heart attack, vascular problems including thrombus, bronchopulmonary problems including emboli, genitourinary problems, and gastrointestinal problems. Certain additional complications related to joint replacement surgery in particular may include but are not limited to: bleeding problems, blood clots in the legs and/or lungs, wound healing problems, damage to nerves and blood vessels, limb length discrepancy, bone erosion or abnormal bone formation, dislocation, infection, pain, bone fracture or non-union, component wear or fracture, component loosening. Complications may require medical intervention including additional surgery and, in rare instances, may lead to death. Your doctor should discuss these potential complications with you.

Will an Artificial Knee Joint Last Forever?

As successful as most of these procedures can be, over the years, the artificial joints can become loose and unstable or wear out, requiring a revision (repeat) surgery.

Next: Orthopaedic Evaluation >>