Total Knee Replacement
Replacing worn knee joint surfaces with an implant, followed by a structured physiotherapy programme.
Stay
Inpatient
Duration
About 1-2 hours
Anaesthesia
Spinal or general
About Total Knee Replacement
Total knee replacement removes the damaged surfaces of the knee joint and replaces them with an implant. It is usually considered when arthritis pain limits walking and daily activity and has not responded to medication, injections or physiotherapy. Rehabilitation afterwards is a significant part of the outcome.
Before you read on
Everything here is general information about total knee replacement. Whether it suits you, and how it would be done in your case, is a decision for your doctor after examining you.
Your consultant's instructions always take precedence over anything written on this page.
When is it recommended?
Situations in which a doctor may suggest total knee replacement.
- Advanced knee arthritis limiting walking
- Pain that persists despite medication and physiotherapy
- Deformity or instability of the knee joint
Procedure details
The usual sequence, from first consultation through to follow-up.
Assessment
X-rays and an orthopaedic examination confirm the extent of joint damage and implant planning.
Pre-operative workup
Blood tests, an ECG and a physician review are completed, along with an anaesthetic assessment.
Surgery
The damaged joint surfaces are replaced with an implant in a modular operating theatre.
Rehabilitation
Physiotherapy begins early, with a programme continuing after discharge to rebuild strength and movement.
How to prepare
What to sort out before you come in.
- Pre-operative assessment including bloods, imaging and an anaesthetic review
- Physiotherapy beforehand to strengthen the muscles around the knee
- Prepare your home - clear trip hazards and arrange support at ground level
- Dental or other infections should be treated before surgery
Recovery
What to expect afterwards, and roughly when.
- Expect a stay of three to five days
- Physiotherapy begins the day after surgery and continues for weeks
- Walking aids are used at first and reduced as strength returns
- Most people resume everyday activity within three months
Why choose Humayun?
What you can expect from us, whichever department you come in through.
Experienced specialists
Consultants who perform these procedures routinely, not occasionally.
Everything on one campus
Theatres, critical care, diagnostics and pharmacy in the same building, so care is not split across sites.
Safety you can check
Infection control, consent and clinical protocols audited against national accreditation standards.
In-house diagnostics
Laboratory and imaging on site, so results reach your doctor the same day rather than after a referral.
Clear about cost
You are told what a treatment involves and what it is likely to cost before you consent to it.
Support around the clock
A 24×7 emergency department and critical care units, whatever time you need us.
Your Health Matters
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