Knee replacement surgery is a procedure that is done to replace the knee joint. If damage to the kneecap is severe it may also be replaced. It is a common treatment for degeneration of the joint (Hartley, 2006). The joint is replaced by removing the bone and cartilage on the end of the femur and above the tibia. Once surfaces are created that will support the implement a metal and plastic implement is put in place and will function as a knee joint. The metal that is generally used in the implement is cobalt-chrome and the plastic is polyethylene.
The implements that are used for knee replacement are designed to last many years. Over time they will begin to wear out. Most implements have been shown to function well for ten to fifteen years. Many can last for twenty years or more. There are chances that the replacement will wear out within twenty years so it is advised that this surgery be done on older patients who have significant problems due to such ailments as arthritis. There isn’t exactly a rule on this but when considering knee replacement in patients less than sixty years of age it is wise to consider all aspects of the surgery before deciding on the method of treatment to use (About.com, 2008).
Studies have shown that after undergoing this type of surgery patients showed vast improvement in mobility. Some studies have shown that post-surgery patients walked faster then they did pre-surgery and their abilities to walk levelly and cross obstacles were improved (Mandeville, 2006). Recovery time varies depending upon many different circumstances. Factors such as fatigue, inflammation, and pain thresholds can effect recovery time. The immunity levels in the patient can also hinder or help the recovery process. A balanced schedule of rest and activity will improve the recovery experience (Smith, 2004).
References
Hartley, Shannon Maureen, (2006). Hope, self-efficacy, and functional recovery after knee and hip replacement. Ph.D. dissertation, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, United States — Alabama. Retrieved November 24, 2008, from Dissertations & Theses: Full Text database. (Publication No. AAT 3253052).
Mandeville, David Stewart, (2006). The effect of total knee replacement on measures of gait and stair ascent. Ph.D. dissertation, University of Oregon, United States — Oregon. Retrieved November 24, 2008, from Dissertations & Theses: Full Text database. (Publication No. AAT 3224104).
Cremeans-Smith, Julie K. (2004) The interaction between immune system activity and fatigue in the prediction of recovery among patients undergoing total knee replacement surgery. Ph.D. dissertation, Kent State University, United States — Ohio. Retrieved November 24, 2008, from Dissertations & Theses: Full Text database. (Publication No. AAT 3133693).
About.com Health’s Disease and Conditions, (2008). Total Knee Replacement. About.com Inc.