Knee replacement surgery, also known as knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure in which a damaged or worn out knee joint is replaced with a prosthetic implant. The surgery can be performed as a partial or total knee replacement, depending on the extent of damage to the joint.
Some signs that you may need a knee replacement include:
§ Chronic knee pain that is not relieved by other treatments, such as medication, physical therapy, or weight loss
§ Difficulty walking or standing for long periods of time due to pain or stiffness in the knee
§ A loss of flexibility or range of motion in the knee joint
§ A visible deformity in the knee, such as a bowing or valgus alignment
§ Swelling or tenderness in the knee that does not improve with rest or other treatments
During the surgery, the damaged bone and cartilage are removed and replaced with metal and polyethylene plastic prosthetic implants. Implants are designed to mimic the function of a healthy knee joint and allow for smooth, pain-free movement. The scar will typically be located on the front or side of the knee, and it may be noticeable for several months after the surgery. Over time, the scar will fade and become less noticeable.
The surgery typically takes between 1 and 3 hours to complete, depending on the complexity of the case. After the surgery, the patient will typically need to stay in the hospital for 3-5 days for recovery and rehabilitation.
After a knee replacement surgery, it is important to follow a rehabilitation program that includes exercises to help strengthen the muscles around the knee and improve range of motion. This may include exercises such as leg presses, leg lifts, and stationary biking.
There are some risks associated with knee replacement surgery, including infection, bleeding, and blood clots. It is important to follow your surgeon's instructions for home care after the surgery to reduce the risk of complications.
The protocol for knee replacement surgery will vary depending on the specific needs of the patient and the preferences of the surgeon. In general, the protocol may include pre-surgery tests and evaluations, preparation for the surgery (such as quitting smoking and adjusting medications), and post-surgery rehabilitation and follow-up care.
The ICD-10 code for knee replacement surgery is Z96.65.
.png)
