tkr total knee replacement

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What is Total Knee Replacement (TKR)?

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1. Definition

Total Knee Replacement (TKR), also known as total knee arthroplasty (TKA), is a surgical procedure performed to:

  • Replace a damaged or diseased knee joint with an artificial implant.
  • Restore function, stability, and mobility.
  • Alleviate chronic knee pain caused by arthritis or injury.

2. Purpose

  • Improve joint function and range of motion.
  • Relieve severe knee pain that limits daily activities.
  • Correct knee deformities.
  • Enhance quality of life.

3. When is TKR Recommended?

  • Severe osteoarthritis causing chronic pain.
  • Rheumatoid arthritis or inflammatory arthritis.
  • Post-traumatic arthritis (after injury).
  • Knee joint deformities or instability.
  • Cartilage damage due to repetitive stress.

Types of Total Knee Replacement (TKR)

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Total Knee Replacement (Standard TKR)

Replaces both sides of the knee joint.
Involves removal of damaged cartilage and bone.
Implant consists of metal and plastic components.
Restores full range of motion.

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Partial Knee Replacement (PKR)

Also known as unicompartmental knee replacement.
Only one side of the knee is replaced.
Suitable for localized knee arthritis.
Less invasive with faster recovery.

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Robotic-Assisted TKR

Advanced surgical technique using robotic technology.
Precise implant positioning.
Minimally invasive, offering greater accuracy.

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Retrograde Femur Nailing

For distal femur fractures (near the knee).
Nail inserted through the knee joint.
Stabilizes the femur and allows early mobility.

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Revision Knee Replacement

Performed if the initial TKR fails.
Replaces the original implant with a new one.
Treats implant loosening, wear, or infection.

Symptoms Indicating the Need for TKR

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Chronic Knee Pain

Persistent pain in the knee.
Worsens with movement or weight-bearing.

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Stiffness and Swelling

Difficulty bending or straightening the knee.
Swelling and inflammation around the joint.

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Limited Mobility

Reduced range of motion.
Difficulty walking or climbing stairs.

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Knee Instability

Feeling of the knee giving out.
Reduced balance and stability.

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Joint Deformity

Bowing or knock-knee deformity.
Visible misalignment of the leg.

Risk Factors for TKR

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Causes Leading to TKR

Osteoarthritis
  • Most common cause of TKR.
  • Progressive wear-and-tear of knee cartilage.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
  • Autoimmune disorder causing joint inflammation.
  • Damages the cartilage and bone.
Traumatic Knee Injury
  • Fractures or ligament tears.
  • Lead to post-traumatic arthritis.
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Knee Deformities
  • Congenital or acquired knee misalignment.
  • Causes chronic pain and instability.
Avascular Necrosis
  • Loss of blood flow to the knee bone.
  • Results in bone death and joint deterioration.

How to Prevent the Need for TKR?

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Weight Management

Maintain a healthy weight.

Reduces stress on knee joints.

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Regular Exercise

Low-impact activities (swimming, walking).

Strengthens knee muscles and improves stability.

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Joint Protection

Avoid repetitive stress on the knees.

Use proper footwear.

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Anti-Inflammatory Diet

Omega-3-rich foods (salmon, flaxseeds).

Reduces joint inflammation.

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Early Treatment of Knee Problems

Physical therapy for minor knee issues.

Prevents long-term damage.

Treatment Through TKR

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Pain Management

NSAIDs or corticosteroid injections.

Reduces inflammation and pain.

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Physical Therapy

Strengthening exercises before and after surgery.

Improves flexibility and range of motion.

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Surgical Intervention

TKR procedure for severe joint damage.

Restores knee function and relieves pain.

TKR Procedure Steps

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Pre-Procedure Preparation

Imaging tests: X-rays, MRI, or CT scans.

Pre-surgery assessment: Blood tests and medical evaluation.

Anesthesia consultation: General or spinal anesthesia

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Steps 1:

Incision made over the knee joint.

Damaged cartilage and bone are removed.

Steps 2:

Artificial implant components inserted.

Metal femoral component and plastic spacer replace damaged surfaces.

Steps 3:

Incision closed with sutures or staples.

Dressing and bandage applied.

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Hospital Stay

2-4 days of hospitalization

Pain management with analgesics.

Gradual Mobility

Use of walker or crutches initially.

Gradual transition to full weight-bearing.

Medications

Antibiotics to prevent infection.

Blood thinners to prevent clots.

Follow-Up Care

Regular X-rays to monitor implant positioning.

Physical therapy for mobility restoration.

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Standard TKR

Traditional open surgery.

Removes damaged knee components.

Replaces with metal and plastic implants.

Minimally Invasive TKR

Smaller incision with less tissue damage.

Faster recovery and reduced pain.

Robotic-Assisted TKR

Uses robotic technology for precision.

More accurate implant positioning.

Partial Knee Replacement

Only the damaged compartment replaced.

Preserves healthy bone.