Pontchartrain Bone and Joint Clinic

Knee Replacement FAQ

What is knee replacement?

Knee replacement procedures involve the removal of a knee joint, which has been damaged by arthritis or traumatic injury, and replacement with an artificial joint. This artificial implant is made out of high-strength metal alloys, plastic, and ceramic components, and is designed to recreate the natural motion and function of a knee joint.

What happens during knee replacement surgery?

To replace the knee joint, surgeons stabilize the leg before muscles are detached from the femur (thighbone) and tibia (shinbone). The damaged ends of both the femur and tibia are removed and precisely trimmed in order to accommodate the artificial implant. After the surgical team completes the fitting process, the artificial prosthesis is fit inside the bones, where it is cemented into place. Any adjustments to the artificial implant that are necessary to achieve proper balance, fit, and range of motion are completed before the incision is closed and the surgery completed.

What is minimally invasive knee joint replacement?

Minimally invasive joint replacement techniques have been developed as a way to reduce the overall impact of joint replacement surgery. During arthroscopic surgery, one type of common minimally invasive knee procedure, surgeons use specialized instruments and cameras to view the knee joint from within. Small incisions are made around the knee in order to insert the cameras and surgical implements. This technique reduces the size of the incisions and allows the surgical team to avoid having to detach muscles, ligaments, or tendons in order to repair the knee joint.

What is the recovery period for knee replacement surgery?

Hospital stays after knee replacement surgery vary from patient to patient and depend on a number of factors including insurance coverage, any complications that may have arisen during surgery and the rate of healing experienced by the patient.

How do I make an appointment to learn more?

Find out more about Pontchartrain Bone and Joint Clinic and how to make an appointment at their offices in Metairie and Destrehan.