Total Knee Replacement (TKR)

  • Home
  • Total Knee Replacement (TKR)

Total Knee Replacement (TKR), also called Total Knee Arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure in which damaged or worn-out surfaces of the knee joint are replaced with artificial implants to relieve pain and restore function.

It is most commonly performed in patients with advanced knee arthritis when conservative treatments no longer provide relief.

Indications

Total knee replacement is recommended for:

  • Severe osteoarthritis of the knee
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Post-traumatic arthritis
  • Severe knee pain affecting daily activities
  • Marked deformity (varus or valgus)
  • Failure of non-surgical treatment (medications, injections, physiotherapy)
Components of a Knee Implant

A typical knee prosthesis has three main components:

  1. Femoral Component
    • Metal component that covers the end of the femur (thigh bone).
  2. Tibial Component
    • Metal base plate placed on the top of the tibia (shin bone).
  3. Polyethylene Insert
    • Plastic spacer placed between femur and tibia to allow smooth movement.

Sometimes a Patellar Component (plastic button) is also used.

Basic Surgical Steps
  1. Incision over the front of the knee.
  2. Damaged cartilage and bone surfaces are removed.
  3. Bone surfaces are prepared for implants.
  4. Metal components are fixed to femur and tibia.
  5. Polyethylene spacer inserted to create a smooth gliding surface.
  6. Knee alignment and stability checked, then wound closed.
Advantages
  • Relieves severe knee pain
  • Improves mobility and function
  • Corrects deformity
  • High success rate (over 90%)
  • Implants can last 15–20+ years
Recovery
  • Hospital stay: 2–4 days
  • Walking: usually within 24 hours after surgery
  • Physiotherapy: essential for regaining motion and strength
  • Return to normal activities: about 6–12 weeks
Possible Complications
  • Infection
  • Blood clots (DVT)
  • Implant loosening over time
  • Stiffness of the knee
  • Rare nerve or vessel injury

Do you have questions? Contact Us

    Total Knee Replacement is considered one of the most successful orthopaedic surgeries, providing significant pain relief and improved quality of life for patients with advanced knee arthritis.