Discover the benefits of knee replacement surgery, a proven solution to restore mobility and relieve chronic pain caused by knee conditions.
Knee replacement surgery, or knee arthroplasty, is a procedure to relieve pain and restore function in severely damaged knee joints. This surgery involves removing damaged cartilage and bone from the knee joint, replacing them with artificial metal, plastic, or ceramic components. These mimic the function of a healthy joint, enabling improved movement and reduced pain.
Knee replacement is recommended for patients suffering from advanced osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or post-traumatic arthritis, where non-surgical treatments such as medications and physical therapy have failed. The benefits include enhanced mobility, significant pain relief, and an improved quality of life.
Knee replacement surgery typically involves the following steps:
Preparation: The patient is positioned under general or regional anaesthesia, and the knee is sterilised to prevent infection.
Damaged Tissue Removal: The surgeon removes the damaged cartilage and bone from the joint.
Implant Placement: Artificial components (prostheses) are precisely fitted to replace the removed structures.
Stabilisation: The new joint is tested for proper alignment and functionality before being secured.
The procedure takes approximately 1-2 hours, and most patients stay in the hospital for 1-3 days post-surgery.
Before:
Pre-operative consultations include imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRIs, to assess the extent of joint damage.
Patients may be advised to stop smoking, adjust medications, and follow a specific diet plan.
During:
The surgery is performed under anaesthesia, with constant monitoring to ensure safety.
The patient may need to remain in the hospital for a few days for observation and initial recovery.
After:
Recovery involves a tailored rehabilitation plan, including physiotherapy to improve strength and range of motion. Pain management and wound care are essential during this phase.
While knee replacement surgery has a high success rate, potential risks include:
Infection
Patients are advised to follow post-operative care instructions carefully and attend regular follow-ups to minimise risks.
Immediate Post-Surgery: Rest and ice the knee to reduce swelling. As soon as possible, begin the prescribed physiotherapy exercises.
Rehabilitation: Engage in a structured physiotherapy programme to regain strength, flexibility, and balance.
Long-Term Care: To prolong the life of the prosthesis, avoid high-impact activities. Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on the joint.
If you experience unusual pain, redness, or swelling, seek medical advice promptly.
NHS: Knee Replacement Overview
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Most patients recover within 3-6 months, although full recovery may take up to a year.
Yes, with physiotherapy, most patients achieve a good range of motion and improved knee function.
You can typically resume low-impact activities within 6-12 weeks, but high-impact sports should be avoided.
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Speak to our teamYou can receive this treatment at any one of the locations below.
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Call us on Leeds 0113 2494655 or Sheffield 0114 7005811 or use our online booking form to send your enquiry. Let us know your preferred appointment type, either virtual or face to face, and we will work to find a time that suits you.
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If you filled out our online booking form, one of our team will contact you within 2 hours with available appointment options. Once your appointment is booked, you will receive an email confirmation with all the details you need.
Attend Your Appointment
Attend your appointment at your chosen time, either virtually or in person, with one of our highly qualified consultants. If your appointment requires a written report, this will be prepared and sent to you within 48 hours.
Aftercare and Follow-Up
If you need any further tests, treatment or follow-up, we will help arrange these for you. If you require a copy of your report or images, please let us know and we will send these promptly.
You can receive this treatment from one of the consultants listed below.
Explore the various options available for this treatment.
With our self-pay service, there are no waiting lists - consultations are offered within 24 hours, with treatment within a week. All costs, including tests or scans, are quoted upfront with no obligation to proceed. Visit our Prices page for full details.
If using medical insurance, contact your provider to confirm coverage for all treatment stages before your first appointment. You’ll need a referral letter from your GP for a private procedure at The LivingCare Group. Once you have it, either you or your GP can book your first appointment with us.