A total knee replacement (TKR) or total knee arthroplasty is an operation to replace a knee joint that is affected by arthritis.
Total Knee Replacement surgery replaces the arthritic knee joint with artificial metal or plastic replacement parts called the ‘prostheses’. These include replacing the:
end of the femur (thigh bone)
end of the tibia (shin bone)
plastic inserted between them and
usually the patella (knee cap).
The artificial knee joint is made from a surgical-grade metal alloy with a special wear resistant plastic insert.
Total Knee Replacement is one of the most successful operations available today with over 90% still functioning well at 15 years.
Prior to surgery, you will usually have tried some conservative treatments such as simple analgesics, weight loss, anti-inflammatory medications, modification of your activities, walking aids, or physical therapy.
