What Are the Types of Knee Replacements?
What Are the Types of Knee Replacements? Knee replacements are a common way to tackle knee problems. Many people find they need one as they get older or after an injury. It’s good to know what types you can choose from for your own health.
Doctors have made great leaps in this field over time. Now there are several different options if you need surgery on your knee. Each type has its own benefits and is used for various reasons.
It’s important to pick the right kind of knee replacement that fits your life best. You should talk with your doctor about all the choices you have. They will tell you more based on what you need and help make sure it’s safe and effective for you.
Traditional Total Knee Replacement
Traditional total knee replacement is a common choice for many. This surgery aims to give you back your mobility and ease pain. It involves replacing damaged parts of the knee with artificial ones. The new parts are made from metal and plastic that act like your real knee.
In this type surgeons replace three parts of the knee joint. These are the bottom end of the thigh bone, top end of the shin bone, and kneecap surface. This full approach can help when all these areas have damage or disease. It’s one of the most tried ways in knee replacement types.
The benefits of traditional total knee replacement are clear. After healing people often find they can move much better than before. They also feel less pain day-to-day after getting their new joint.
Before choosing this surgery talk with your doctor about if it’s right for you. Each person has different needs when it comes to types of knee replacements. Your health and how much you use your knees play big roles in picking out what kind works best for you.
Partial Knee Replacement
Partial knee replacement is a choice if only part of your knee is bad. It targets either the inside, outside, or front of your knee. Not all the parts of the joint are replaced in this surgery. This makes it different from total knee replacement.
This type can be less hard on your body than full replacements. The cut made by the doctor is smaller and healing may happen faster. With fewer parts changed you keep more of your natural bone and tissue.
One big plus with partial knee replacement is that it feels more like a real knee. Since most of your own joint stays it moves in a way that’s more natural. People often say their new part feels just right after they heal up.
When looking at types of knee replacements think about how much damage you have. If just one side or section needs help this could be what works best for you. Always talk to a doctor who knows all about these surgeries to make sure.
Minimally Invasive Knee Replacement
Minimally invasive knee replacement is a newer approach to fixing knee issues. It involves smaller cuts than the usual surgery does. This means less harm to your muscles and tendons around the knee. The goal is still to replace damaged parts of your knee with new man-made ones.
The benefits of this method are worth noting. You may have less pain after the operation and get back on your feet faster. Many find their stay in the hospital is shorter too getting them home sooner. This can be great if you want a quick return to daily life.
It’s key to work with a doctor who knows this kind of surgery well. They can tell if it’s right for you based on how bad your knee damage is and other health facts about you. If they say go ahead minimally invasive could be one of the best options among different types of knee replacements for you.
Revision Knee Replacement
Revision knee replacement is for when an initial knee surgery needs a do-over. This might happen if the first joint wears out or other issues come up over time. It’s a complex procedure and doctors only suggest it when truly needed.
In revision surgery some or all of the parts from the first knee replacement are taken out. They’re replaced with new ones that can give better support and last longer. The goal is to restore function and comfort to your knee again.
This type of operation requires careful planning by skilled surgeons. They have to look at what went wrong before and how to fix it this time around. It often involves specialized implants that match each person’s unique situation.
If you feel pain or less movement in a replaced knee talk to your doctor right away. They will check your joint and may suggest tests like X-rays or scans. These help them see if you need this kind of follow-up surgery.
Lastly recovery from revision knee replacement can take more time than after the first surgery. But with good care, physical therapy, and following doctor orders closely, many people get back their active lives once they heal up fully.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common types of knee replacements?
The most common types are traditional total knee replacement, partial knee replacement, and minimally invasive knee replacement.
How long does a typical knee replacement last?
Most knee replacements can last between 15 to 20 years. However this can vary based on activity levels and other health factors.
Can I return to sports after getting a knee replacement?
Many people return to low-impact sports with their doctor's okay. It's important to avoid high-impact activities that could harm the new joint.
