Total Knee Replacement
Top Washington D.C., Maryland, and Northern Virginia Orthopedic Surgeons Specializing in Total Knee Replacement
This procedure restores function to a severely damaged knee. Most commonly, it is used to repair a knee that has been damaged by arthritis. During the procedure, the surgeon replaces the damaged portions of the knee with artificial parts. These parts consist of a metal femoral component, a metal tibial component and a plastic spacer. A small plastic patellar component may also be used.
What is a total knee replacement?
This detailed video explains the entire process of total knee replacement, including preparation, reshaping the bones, inserting the metal components, inserting the spacer, patellar resurfacing, testing the joint, ending the procedure, and physical therapy.
When all of the components are in place, the surgeon tests the components by guiding the knee through a range of movements. The surgeon checks to make sure the knee flexes and extends with a fluid and natural motion.
Is total knee replacement right for you?
Getting a total knee replacement is a big decision, and it's one you should make with your family, primary care doctor, and orthopedic surgeon.
Common questions about total knee replacement:
How long does it take to recover from having a knee replacement?
Is a total knee replacement a major surgery?
How painful is a total knee replacement?
What is the newest procedure for knee replacement?
Learn more about total joint replacement and orthopedic rehabilitation.