When is knee replacement surgery considered for osteoarthritis?
Written by:
Orthopaedic surgeon
Published: 15/06/2023
Edited by: Conor Lynch
Top Doctors recently spoke to revered consultant orthopaedic surgeon, Mr Tamas Kustos, who, here in this article below, explains how osteoarthritis forms, and when knee replacement surgery is considered for patients suffering from the condition.
What is an osteoarthritic joint and how does it form?
An osteoarthritic joint is a joint that has degenerated due to wear and tear, leading to pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. Osteoarthritis typically forms as a result of ageing, but can also be caused by injury or genetics.
Is cartilage degradation always linked to excessive pressure?
Cartilage degradation can be caused by excessive pressure, but it can also be caused by other factors such as genetics, injury, or inflammation.
How quickly does knee osteoarthritis progress and how can conservative treatment measures help to manage symptoms?
The progression of knee osteoarthritis can vary greatly from person to person, and can range from slow to rapid. Conservative treatment measures, such as physical therapy, weight management, and pain management, can help to manage symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.
When is knee replacement surgery considered? Can both knees be treated at the same time?
Knee replacement surgery is typically considered when conservative treatment measures have failed to provide adequate relief and the patient's quality of life is significantly impacted. Both knees can be treated at the same time, but it is often recommended to operate on one knee at a time to allow the patient to better recover and adjust to the changes.
What can people with knee osteoarthritis do during and after treatment to preserve optimum knee function?
People with knee osteoarthritis can do things such as exercise, maintain a healthy weight, and use assistive devices to preserve optimum knee function. Additionally, it's important to avoid activities that place excessive stress on the knee and to seek medical advice for treatment options.
Mr Tamas Kustos is an esteemed consultant orthopaedic surgeon. To book an appointment with him today, visit his Top Doctors profile.