Total Knee Replacement Surgery

If you have arthritis in your knee, you probably have a hard time walking, climbing stairs or even lying in bed. It may be hard to do the things you want or need to do. To get you back to your normal routine and enjoying life, your doctor may recommend total knee replacement surgery. You are not alone. Every year, more than half a million people have knee replacement surgery.

	The knee is the largest joint in your body. The knee is made up of the lower end of the thigh bone (femur), which glides on the upper end of the shin bone (tibia). The kneecap (patella) slides in a groove on the end of the thigh bone. Cartilage covers the ends of the femur, tibia and back of the kneecap. Joint fluid lubricates the knee, making it move smoothly. Ligaments and muscles help keep the knee strong and stable.
	When the cartilage starts wearing away, the knee becomes stiff and painful. This is called arthritis. Eventually, bone starts rubbing against bone, causing even more pain and loss of function. Knee replacement surgery is used to replace the painful joint with an artificial mechanical one.
	During knee replacement surgery, the surgeon makes an incision in the top of your knee. The ends of the femur and tibia are shaped and trimmed, then replaced with new plastic and metal pieces. A plastic button may be placed on the back of the kneecap if the cartilage is worn out there. The new knee comes in different sizes. The surgeon determines which size is the best fit for you.
	The incision is closed with staples, stitches and/or glue. Any arthritis in your knee will be gone.

Over time, your pain should decrease, and your knee function should improve. The surgeon will do the easy part; it's up to you to do the rest - physical therapy and following your surgeon's instructions.

Norton Orthopaedic Care offers several surgical approaches to total knee replacement. These include:

• Minimally invasive (also known as less invasive)
• Accelerated rehabilitation (after surgery) 

Norton Joint Care
We understand joint replacement surgery may sound intimidating. If surgery has been recommended for you, you may have many questions. The Norton Joint Care program includes comprehensive education and rehabilitation components, so you will know what to expect before, during and after surgery.

For more information or to schedule an appointment with an orthopaedic specialist, call (502) 629-1234.