Double Knee Replacement
Double knee replacement is a kind of joint replacement
surgery that substitutes the ends of bones in a damaged
joint with new joint surfaces.
A joint replacement surgery is generally applicable
in patients with unmanageable pain and functional problems
of the knee. It is implemented when such a patient fails
to respond to medication and other pain relieving therapies.
THE PROCEDURE
A knee replacement surgery involves removal of the damaged
parts and replacing the ends of the affected thigh and
lower leg bones with new joint coverings. It involves
capping the kneecap with artificial material comprising
of metal and plastic. There are two types of replacement:
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Total joint replacement: This involves
replacing the total surface at the ends of the thigh
and lower leg bones |
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Unicompartmental replacement: This involves replacing
just the inner knee areas or the outer knee areas. |
Local anesthesia is often given during the process
and antibiotics are prescribed both before and after
the surgery to prevent infection. Any dental care must
be done before the surgery, since infections in other
parts of the body, such as the mouth, can be transmitted
to the artificial joint.
POST SURGICAL CARE AND RECOVERY
Other than the initial intravenous (IV) antibiotics,
drugs to relive pain and prevent blood clots are given
after surgery. You may need the help of a continuous
passive motion machine (CPM) for sometime to maintain
knee flexibility. Breathing and feet exercises may also
be recommended under the guidance of a therapist. Walking
begins with the aid of a walker or crutch.
Total recovery may take several months. Short walks,
cold packs, riding a stationary bike and swimming are
helpful after the stitches have been removed. Weight
control and an active lifestyle are long-term recovery
programs. Running, playing tennis, squatting and activities
that stress the joint are prohibited.
EFFECTIVENESS
Knee replacement surgery relives pain and restores most of the normal functions of the knee. However, the new knee cannot be bent like the normal knee. A knee replacement done at a young age more often requires a second surgery due to the continued wear and tear. If you can control your weight and do not engage on some stressful work or sports, the artificial joint should be resilient. For those above 60 the artificial joint should ideally last a lifetime.
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