Knee Replacement Surgery (Knee Arthroplasty)

Surgical Replacement of the Knee Joint

The most common reason for a knee joint replacement surgery is osteoarthritis caused by the wear and tear of the knee joint. Arthritis is a common condition and about one in four people over the age of 65 have some form of arthritis. Knee replacement surgery or Knee joint replacement involves the replacement of a portion or whole knee joint itself using an artificial joint known as a prosthesis.

The Surgical Procedure

The knee is a hinge joint that involves the femur (thigh) and the tibia (shin) bones. A knee replacement surgery or knee arthroplasty is a surgical technique usually performed by orthopedic surgeons, where the damaged knee joint (or part of it) is removed and replaced with an artificial joint. A complete knee replacement surgery is known as a total knee arthroplasty and for a majority of people, this surgical joint replacement would last them the remainder of their lives. Clinical studies have demonstrated that the surgery has a high success rate with over 90% of knee joint prostheses (replacements) functioning well even 10-15 years after surgery.

Raphael Hau has done countless knee replacement surgeries and has extensive experience with the procedure. For more information and advice on total knee replacement or total knee arthroplasty, contact us on (03) 9890 2300

To book your appointment, Call us now on (03) 9890 2300 or you can visit our clinic today at Epworth Eastern East Wing Tower Suite 13.2, Level 13, 1 Arnold Street, Box Hill, VIC 3128.

What knee injuries can Knee Replacement Surgery treat?

Although a majority of knee replacement surgery is done to treat osteoarthritis of the knee, the surgical treatment can be used to treat a knee that is affected by a range of conditions, including:

Severe osteoarthritis of the knee
Rheumatoid arthritis
Ligament damage or infection that leads to osteoarthritis
Diseases such as gout and pseudogout
Avascular necrosis
Bone growth disorders or bone dysplasias

What are the symptoms of injury to the knee?

The signs and symptoms of knee injury can vary, most commonly the symptoms will include swelling to the knee, locking of the knee joint, persistent or severe knee pain and sometimes even the knee giving way. Not all knee injuries require knee joint replacement surgery and this is something your orthopaedic surgeon can advise you on. To find out more contact Raphael Hau on (03) 9890 2300.

How to prepare for the surgery

Make sure your orthopaedic surgeon has your complete medical history, mention any allergies or illness you may have and be sure to disclose information on all medication or supplements you may be taking. Before a total knee replacement surgery, Raphael Hau will advise you in detail on how you can prepare and what care you need to take after.

Disclaimer: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.