The knee prosthesis is a joint implant: the worn cartilage is replaced by specific materials, designed to allow the joints to slide normally once more. When other treatments reach their limits, this operation allows you to regain comfort and mobility.
What is a knee prosthesis?
When the wear of the cartilage becomes important, in particular in the event ofadvanced osteoarthritisone of the most obvious solutions is the knee prosthesis. This subject is raised when the pain becomes severe and the loss of mobility is disabling. In most cases, it is a so-called total prosthesis, which covers the entire surface of the tibia and femur. The objective here is to remove areas of degraded bone and cartilage, replacing them with pieces of similar shapes.
This prosthesis is implanted in such a way as to allow perfect stability of the knee, with as complete a mobility as possible. the rehabilitation work then comes to restore its amplitude and strength to the joint. This type of operation has an excellent success rate: regarding 80% of patients are relieved of their pain, resuming a normal life with their prosthesis.
In which cases do we decide to have a knee prosthesis?
Knee pain for a long time, lameness, discomfort in usual activities… If despite rest, anti-inflammatories or infiltrations, these ailments do not fade, the question of a knee prosthesis arises. It is often prescribed in cases of osteoarthritis, unstable knee, or bone fragility. If the X-ray highlights the wear of the knee, the prosthesis is a way to significantly improve daily life: it is relevant to seek the opinion of a surgeon.
The pains and the handicap push to consider a prosthesis, but the concern can be a brake: one should not hesitate to take the time to reflect on this decision, to speak regarding it with the close relations and the family doctor to take stock.
How is a knee prosthesis fitted?
This is a common intervention, requiring hospitalization for 4 to 5 days. With techniques now very well mastered, the operation takes place on average over an hour and a half. A sterile dressing is then put in place for a fortnight. During the postoperative period, the pain treatment is adapted to each case and a splint will be used to immobilize and protect the knee for a few days.
Rehabilitation begins the day following the operation, thanks to the support of crutches to support walking. The evolution then takes place gradually, in a rehabilitation center or with a physiotherapist. Six months will be necessary to obtain a consequent improvement, but one can note a continuation of the positive evolution during the two years which follow the installation of the knee prosthesis.
How to quickly regain an active life following the installation of a knee prosthesis?
A total knee prosthesis lasts between 15 and 20 years, or even longer. For convincing and lasting results following the installation, the patient must actively participate in the recovery process. You have to prepare and anticipate, by putting in place good habits (adapted exercises, healthy lifestyle), which will be beneficial in the long term. At home, functional devices and accessories will make everyday life easier and relieve the joints.
It is also essential to have support from family and friends during recovery, as surgery can be emotionally taxing. About 12 weeks will be necessary before considering the resumption of sports activities. In any case, recovery involves patience, you have to agree to give yourself time.
In summary, knee prostheses are now emerging as a convincing solution. Current laying techniques and the post-operative pain management improved the quality of life of patients. The primary goal is to relieve pain, widen the walking distance and improve the daily life of people suffering from osteoarthritis. Only then is it possible to consider resuming the activities practiced before the intervention. Patient satisfaction is closely linked to their expectations, hence the importance of being well informed and communicating beforehand.
