The type of knee surgery a patient needs depends on several factors: medical history, age, activity level, weight, and the extent and type of damage to the knee, according to the Mayo Clinic. In order to decide which type of knee surgery will work best, the patient should meet with an orthopedic surgeon to discuss symptoms and options.
Total Knee Replacement
Total knee replacement, also called knee arthroplasty, is a procedure during which the entire knee joint is replaced with a prosthetic knee joint. The prosthetic joint can be made of either metal or plastic and works by mimicking the normal movement and function of the joint. Although previously considered for only elderly adults, total knee replacement can also be performed on younger adults as well. However, younger adults have an increased chance of wearing out the prosthetic joint due to higher levels of physical activity. This surgery is an option for those who experience chronic and debilitating knee pain that encompasses all areas of the joint. Total knee replacement eliminates pain in 90 percent of cases, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Partial Knee Replacement
Partial knee replacement, also called unicompartmental knee replacement, is a procedure during which only the damaged cartilage of the knee joint is replaced with an implant. A partial knee replacement is less severe than a total knee replacement, requiring smaller incisions and only one night in the hospital. However, the long-term results of the surgery are not as positive as results of a total knee replacement. Future surgeries are necessary in most cases and are often more complicated than the initial surgery. Those considered for this type of surgery are people who are not obese and only experience pain or arthritis in one compartment of the knee, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Bilateral Knee Replacement
Bilateral knee replacement is a procedure in which both knee joints are replaced with prosthetic knee joints. This surgery is considered for those who have severe pain or arthritis in both knees. The patient must also be in optimal health with no other medical conditions. The main reason for performing a bilateral knee replacement is to attempt to decrease the time spent in rehabilitation following the surgery. More than likely, future knee surgery will be required in one or both knees. Most prosthetic knee joints can last for approximately 10 years, according to the Center for Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine.
