Total knee replacement is a surgical procedure that restores function and relieves pain by resurfacing the damaged portions of the knee joint. This procedure, called total knee arthroplasty, is a long-lasting solution that’s often recommended for those with chronic, severe knee pain and limited mobility due to arthritis. 

Our orthopaedic specialists are at the forefront of the latest advancements in total knee replacement surgery — including minimally invasive approaches and robotic arm-assisted technology.

What is Total Knee Replacement Surgery?

In total knee replacement surgery, your orthopaedic surgeon replaces the worn-out or damaged surfaces of your knee joint with artificial implants made of medical-grade metal and plastic.

The procedure is typically recommended for patients with severe arthritis or joint degeneration that causes chronic pain, stiffness and limited mobility. By resurfacing the ends of the femur (thighbone), tibia (shinbone), and sometimes the underside of the kneecap (patella), the surgery restores motion, improves alignment of the leg and allows you to return to a more active, pain-free life.

Is Total Knee Replacement for You?

You may need total knee replacement if you're living with chronic knee pain, stiffness or limited mobility that doesn’t improve with non-surgical treatments like physical therapy, medications or injections.

It’s typically recommended for patients with moderate to severe osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, osteonecrosis or post-traumatic joint damage affecting broad areas of the knee. You may be a candidate if knee pain interferes with your ability to walk, climb stairs or enjoy daily activities.

This procedure involves resurfacing the ends of the bone where cartilage has been lost and correcting alignment to offer the most long-term relief for advanced joint degeneration.

Not every patient who needs knee surgery requires total knee replacement. Some people are candidates for partial knee replacement.

Your orthopedic specialist can help determine whether total knee replacement is the most effective path toward long-term relief and restored function.

New Technologies in Knee Replacement Surgery

Every patient’s knee is different. Our orthopaedic surgeons have access to the newest techniques and technologies to maximize your chances for a successful surgery, including:

  • Minimally invasive, quadriceps-sparing techniques
  • Implants designed to address your wear pattern and match your anatomy
  • Robotic-assistance and navigation options for improved precision and alignment
  • Use of smart implant technology for closer postoperative monitoring

How Long is Total Knee Replacement Recovery Time?

While you may be up and walking within 24 hours of surgery, recovery from total knee replacement is gradual, typically taking three to six months for most patients to regain strength, mobility and return to daily activities. This depends on age, overall health and commitment to physical therapy. Some improvement can continue for up to a year.

  • First one to two weeks: Walking with a walker or cane
  • By four to six weeks: Most people can walk short distances unassisted and return to light daily activities, such as driving and desk work
  • By three months: Significant improvement in strength and endurance and return to normal activities, including exercise
  • Six to 12 months: Continued improvement in flexibility, function, strength, and balance

Joint Replacement Education Class

There is wide range of specialists at the University of Chicago who specialize in simple arthritic issues, also complex arthritic issues, such as total hip and knee revisions, oncological issues, such as tumors of the bone, soft tissue tumors and more.

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