What can I expect from a knee replacement?

Knee replacement surgery, also known as knee arthroplasty, is a common and highly effective procedure to relieve pain and restore function in knees affected by arthritis or injury. Understanding what the operation involves and what recovery looks like can help patients feel more confident and better prepared.

Why is knee replacement needed?

Knee replacement is usually recommended for patients with severe osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis or post-traumatic damage to the joint, where the cartilage has worn away and bone surfaces are rubbing together. This often causes chronic pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. When medication, physiotherapy or injections are no longer effective, surgery may be advised.

What happens during knee replacement surgery?

The knee joint’s damaged surfaces are removed, and then replaced with artificial parts. These are made of metal or plastic. There are two main types of knee replacement:

• Total knee replacement (TKR): The entire knee joint is replaced, including the surfaces of the femur (thigh bone), tibia (shin bone) and sometimes the kneecap.
• Partial knee replacement: Only one part of the knee is replaced, often suitable for patients with damage limited to a single compartment.

The procedure is usually performed under spinal or general anaesthetic, and it lasts around one to two hours.

What is the recovery process like?

Length of stay can be home on same day, or sometimes up to two nights in hospital, depending on pain levels. Every patient is different.

Physiotherapy begins soon after surgery to encourage movement, strengthen the muscles, and restore function. It is absolutely critical, and getting walking and the knee moving and as quickly as possible within the expert physiotherapist guidance. This will determine the outcome of the knee replacement. 

Recovery can vary depending on the individual and the type of replacement. Generally:

• Patients can walk with a frame or crutches within 24 to 48 hours
• Many return to everyday activities within six weeks
• Full recovery may take up to six months, including improvement in strength and joint mobility. However, some residual pain or swelling may take more than a year to resolve in some instances. 

What results can I expect?

Knee replacement surgery is highly successful in reducing pain and improving quality of life. Most patients report a significant decrease in symptoms and greater ease in walking, climbing stairs and performing daily tasks. Implants are designed to last 15 to 20 years or more, depending on activity levels and general health.

Are there any risks?

As with any surgery, knee replacement carries some risks, though they are relatively low when performed by experienced surgeons. Potential complications include:

• Infection
• Blood clots
• Implant loosening or wear over time
• Stiffness or reduced range of motion
• Nerve or blood vessel injury (rare)

These risks can be minimised by following medical advice and attending follow-up appointments.

Is knee replacement right for everyone?

This procedure is generally recommended if patients cannot cope with non-operative measures and they have bone-on-bone arthritis, it is usually time to proceed with joint replacement.  Joint condition, medical history and overall fitness will be assessed by a specialist.

For many patients, knee replacement offers a lasting solution to persistent joint pain and helps restore independence and mobility.