Knee Replacement
This is our new awesome new Knee Replacement!
Reasons for Knee replacement!
If you have any of these symptoms call your doctor now.
- Osteoarthritis. This is an age-related "wear and tear" type of arthritis. It usually occurs in people 50 years of age and older, but may occur in younger people, too. The cartilage that cushions the bones of the knee softens and wears away. The bones then rub against one another, causing knee pain and stiffness.
- Rheumatoid arthritis. This is a disease in which the synovial membrane that surrounds the joint becomes inflamed and thickened. This chronic inflammation can damage the cartilage and eventually cause cartilage loss, pain, and stiffness. Rheumatoid arthritis is the most common form of a group of disorders termed "inflammatory arthritis."
- Post-traumatic arthritis. This can follow a serious knee injury. Fractures of the bones surrounding the knee or tears of the knee ligaments may damage the articular cartilage over time, causing knee pain and limiting knee function.
Materials Used in the Knee Replacement
Plastic: Used to construct the tibial component. This keeps the thighbone from sliding on the shinbone. The plastic parts sit on a metal tray with polyurethane.
Polyurethane: The patellar component mimics the shape of the kneecap and is constructed out of polyurethane materials.
Tungsten Carbide: Usually titanium but has been replaced by this for increased strength and durability.
Total Knee Replacement Surgery Dr. Eric W. Janssen
Cost... :(
NOTHING!
Technically it costs $45,000-$75,000 but if you have competent health insurance then you should be covered ;) If this isn't you well then... hmmm... this is awkward...
Post Replacement Complications
- Must stay in the hospital for 3-5 days
- Requires 6 weeks of walking assistance
- outpatient physical therapy may last fro 1-2 months
- After surgery do not pivot or twist knee for 6 weeks
- When lying in bed keep knee as straight as possible
- Kneeling and squatting should be avoided