Mobility is one of the fundamental aspects of human life, reliant on the healthy functioning of our joints. The knee and hip joints, as the body’s primary weight-bearing regions, play a critical role in daily activities. However, as we age, trauma, joint diseases, or osteoarthritis can damage these joints. In such cases, knee and hip replacement surgeries offer an effective solution to eliminate pain and restore freedom of movement. Thanks to modern medical technologies, these prostheses significantly enhance patients’ quality of life. This article comprehensively covers knee and hip replacement surgery, from prosthesis types and surgical processes to rehabilitation stages.
Knee and Hip Replacement Surgery
Knee and hip replacement surgery involves replacing damaged joint surfaces with artificial implants. These procedures are typically performed for advanced osteoarthritis (joint calcification), rheumatoid arthritis, traumatic injuries, or other degenerative joint diseases. The goal is to relieve chronic pain, restore joint function, and enable patients to return to daily activities. Surgery is usually conducted by orthopedic and traumatology specialists and tailored to the patient’s condition.
What is Knee Replacement?
Knee replacement involves replacing the worn or damaged surfaces of the knee joint with an artificial implant made of metal, ceramic, or durable plastic materials. The knee joint comprises three main components: the femur (thigh bone), tibia (shin bone), and patella (kneecap). Knee replacement surgery may involve replacing one component (e.g., patellar prosthesis) or all (total knee replacement). Total knee replacement, the most common type, covers all joint surfaces. Prostheses are designed to mimic the knee’s natural motion, providing a long-term solution.
What is Hip Replacement?
Hip replacement is a surgical procedure where damaged parts of the hip joint are replaced with an artificial joint. The hip joint consists of the femoral head (top of the thigh bone) and the acetabulum (hip socket) in the pelvic bone. Hip replacement surgery places metal, ceramic, or polyethylene prostheses in these components to restore joint functionality. Total hip replacement, which replaces the entire joint, is common, while partial hip replacement (replacing only the femoral head) is used in specific cases. This procedure effectively reduces pain and improves walking ability.
Types of Knee and Hip Prostheses
Prosthesis technology offers various options based on patient needs and the extent of joint damage. Below are the main types of knee and hip prostheses:
Knee Prosthesis Types
Total Knee Replacement
Total knee replacement replaces all surfaces of the knee joint (femur, tibia, and often the patella) with an artificial implant. These prostheses consist of metal (titanium or cobalt-chromium alloys) and high-density polyethylene plastic components. Total knee replacement is used for advanced osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or severe trauma causing complete joint surface wear. The prosthesis design mimics the knee’s natural sliding and rotational movements, enabling more comfortable post-surgical mobility.
Unicompartmental Knee Replacement
Unicompartmental knee replacement refers to prostheses applied only to the medial or lateral surfaces of the knee joint.
Note: The term “fluid knee prosthesis” does not exist in medical practice. It is a marketing term used for promotional purposes outside of medical contexts.
Hip Prosthesis Types
Total Hip Replacement
Total hip replacement replaces both the femoral head and acetabulum with artificial implants. Prostheses typically include a metal stem (femoral component), a ceramic or metal ball (femoral head), and a polyethylene or ceramic socket (acetabulum). This method is used for advanced osteoarthritis, hip fractures, or rheumatoid arthritis. Total hip replacement offers a durable solution, lasting 15-20 years for most patients.
Partial Hip Replacement
Partial hip replacement (hemiarthroplasty) replaces only the femoral head, leaving the acetabulum intact. The prosthesis is designed to fit the natural socket. Commonly used in elderly patients, particularly after hip fractures, this method is less invasive than total hip replacement, with a potentially faster recovery.
Customized Prostheses
Advancements in technology have popularized customized prostheses, produced using 3D printing tailored to the patient’s joint anatomy. Computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) analyzes the joint structure, and the prosthesis is designed accordingly. Customized prostheses offer better fit, fewer complications, and long-term comfort but are more expensive and not available in every hospital.
Knee and Hip Replacement Surgery
Knee and hip replacement surgeries are complex procedures performed by specialized orthopedic surgeons. Conducted under general or spinal (regional) anesthesia, they typically last 1-2 hours. The surgical process is planned based on the patient’s age, health status, and extent of joint damage.
Knee and Hip Replacement Treatment in Samsun
Knee and hip joints are foundational to our freedom of movement. However, aging, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or trauma can cause pain and restricted mobility in these joints. For those seeking knee and hip replacement treatment in Samsun, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ömer Bozduman is a trusted choice, offering expertise in Orthopedics and Traumatology. Using modern diagnostic and treatment methods, he aims to provide a comfortable recovery process. Knee replacement involves replacing the damaged knee joint with metal and polyethylene implants.
Hip replacement restores a worn hip joint with an artificial one. Dr. Bozduman offers tailored solutions for total or partial prosthesis applications, considering the patient’s age, health, and expectations. Pre-surgical imaging ensures accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans. At his clinic in Atakum, Samsun, Dr. Bozduman emphasizes post-surgical rehabilitation. Physical therapy, CPM device use, and exercise programs help patients return to active life quickly. Consult a specialist to take the first step toward a pain-free life with knee and hip replacement.
Who is Eligible for Knee and Hip Replacement?
Replacement surgery is recommended for:
- Severe, persistent joint pain (especially disrupting sleep or persisting at rest).
- Failure of conservative treatments like medications, injections, or physical therapy to control pain.
- Advanced joint deformity, osteoarthritis, or bone loss.
- Significant restriction in daily activities (walking, sitting/standing, climbing stairs).
Replacement surgery is more common in patients over 60, but younger patients may undergo it due to trauma, congenital anomalies, or rheumatoid arthritis. In younger patients, prosthesis lifespan and activity level are considered.
Pre-Surgery Preparation for Knee and Hip Replacement
Pre-surgical preparation is critical for success. This process includes:
- Medical Evaluation: Blood tests, electrocardiogram (EKG), chest X-ray, and joint imaging (X-ray, MRI).
- Medication Adjustments: Blood thinners (aspirin, warfarin) or anti-inflammatory drugs are stopped 7-10 days prior.
- Physical Preparation: Light exercises like straight leg raises or walking strengthen muscles and improve circulation.
- Psychological Preparation: Patients are informed about the post-surgical process, setting realistic expectations.
- Home Adjustments: Prepare the home for post-surgical mobility, e.g., installing grab bars in the bathroom, using a high bed, or removing slippery rugs.
Complications of Knee and Hip Replacement Surgery
Like all surgeries, knee and hip replacement carry risks, though rare. Awareness and precautions minimize these complications:
- Infection: Superficial or deep infections at the surgical site may require antibiotics or, in severe cases, prosthesis removal.
- Blood Clots: Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism risks are managed with blood thinners and compression stockings.
- Prosthesis Loosening: Over time, the prosthesis may detach or wear, often due to excess weight, intense activity, or poor-quality implants.
- Nerve or Vascular Damage: Rarely, surrounding tissues may be injured, causing numbness or circulation issues.
- Joint Stiffness: Insufficient rehabilitation or scar tissue may reduce joint mobility.
Most risks are preventable or manageable with proper post-surgical care, regular check-ups, and physical therapy.
Post-Surgery Precautions for Knee and Hip Replacement
The post-surgical period directly impacts prosthesis success and patient comfort. Key precautions include:
- Knee Replacement Post-Surgery Stitches: Stitches are typically removed after 10-14 days. Keep the wound dry and clean to reduce infection risk, using waterproof bandages if needed.
- Knee Replacement Post-Surgery Stair Climbing: Avoid stairs for the first 4-6 weeks. As recovery progresses, use crutches or a cane with physiotherapist guidance, stepping up with the healthy leg first.
- Hip Replacement Post-Surgery Side-Lying: Avoid side-lying for the first 6-8 weeks. Sleep on your back or healthy side, using a pillow between legs for hip support.
- Hip Replacement Post-Surgery: Avoid bending the hip beyond 90 degrees (e.g., low chairs or toilets), crossing legs, or sudden twists.
- Contact the hospital immediately for signs of infection like redness, swelling, or fever.
Recovery and Rehabilitation for Knee and Hip Replacement
Recovery varies by patient age, health, surgery scope, and rehabilitation adherence. Full recovery for knee replacement typically takes 3-6 months, while hip replacement may take 2-4 months. Recovery stages include:
- First Week: Hospital stay lasts 2-5 days, with pain managed via medication and light movements (e.g., leg raises in bed) initiated.
- Weeks 2-6: Walking begins with crutches or a walker. Physical therapy focuses on muscle strength and joint mobility.
- After 6 Weeks: Gradual return to normal activities, including driving or light work, may be possible.
- 3-6 Months: Full recovery allows most daily activities to be performed comfortably.
Rehabilitation is essential, with physiotherapists designing personalized programs to accelerate recovery and reduce complications.
Exercises and Physical Therapy for Knee and Hip Replacement Patients
Physical therapy and exercises are vital for prosthesis longevity and restoring joint function. Starting early post-surgery, they strengthen muscles, prevent stiffness, and improve circulation.
Recommended Post-Surgery Exercises
For Knee Replacement:
- Straight Leg Raise: Lying down, lift the leg straight up, hold for 5 seconds, to engage quadriceps.
- Knee Bending: While seated, slowly bend and straighten the knee to improve range of motion.
- Calf Stretch: Move the ankle up and down to support circulation.
For Hip Replacement:
- Side Leg Raise: Lying on the healthy side, lift the unaffected leg to strengthen hip muscles.
- Hip Squeeze: Lying down, contract and relax hip muscles to enhance stability.
- Light Walking: Short walks with crutches keep muscles active.
Exercises should be supervised by a physiotherapist and stopped if painful. Start with 2-3 daily sessions of 10-15 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Knee and Hip Replacement
How Long Does Recovery Take After Knee Replacement Surgery?
Full recovery typically takes 3-6 months. Patients may walk without crutches and perform basic tasks within 6-8 weeks, depending on age and health.
How Long Does a Knee Prosthesis Last?
Modern knee prostheses last 15-20 years, depending on the patient’s weight, activity level, prosthesis material, and surgical technique. Younger patients may require revision surgery due to shorter prosthesis lifespan.
Can the Knee Bend After Knee Replacement Surgery?
Yes, with regular physical therapy, the knee regains its range of motion. While bending is limited initially, 90-120 degrees of flexion is achievable within 3-6 months, depending on rehabilitation success.
When Does Limping Stop After Hip Replacement Surgery?
Limping typically reduces within 6-12 weeks. As muscles strengthen and the patient adapts to the prosthesis, walking normalizes, contingent on physical therapy participation.
What Movements Should Hip Replacement Patients Avoid?
For the first 6-12 weeks, avoid squatting, crossing legs, bending down, or sudden twists. Long-term, perform these cautiously and avoid excess.
When Might a Hip Prosthesis Dislocate?
Prosthesis dislocation may occur due to severe falls, car accidents, excessive physical strain, infection, or bone loss. This rare complication usually requires revision surgery.