Total Knee Replacement

Total Knee Replacement

Total Knee Replacement Surgeon in Scottsdale

A total knee replacement is a surgery to replace diseased or damaged knee joint with an artificial knee joint made of materials, such as metal or plastics. Dr. Silver provides diagnosis and individualized non-operative and operative treatment plans in Scottsdale. Dr. Silver also provides highly specialized care during and after surgery. contact Dr. Silver’s office for an appointment today!

What is Total Knee Replacement?

Total knee replacement, also called total knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure in which the worn out or damaged surfaces of the knee joint are removed and replaced with an artificial prosthesis.

What is Knee Arthritis?

The knee is made up of the femur (thighbone), tibia (shinbone) and patella (kneecap). The two menisci, the soft cartilage between the femur and tibia, serve as a cushion and help absorb shock during motion. Arthritis (inflammation of the joints), injury or other diseases of the joint can damage this protective layer, causing extreme pain and difficulty in performing daily activities in an arthritic knee, the cartilage itself becomes thinner or completely absent. In addition, the bones become thicker around the edges of the joint and may form bony “spurs”. These factors can cause pain and restrict the range of motion in the joint.

What are the Indications for Total Knee Replacement?

Total knee replacement surgery is commonly indicated for severe osteoarthritis of the knee. Osteoarthritis is a type of arthritis. It is the most common form of knee arthritis in which the joint cartilage gradually wears away, and often affects the elderly. Your doctor may advise total knee replacement if you have:

• Severe knee pain that limits your daily activities (such as walking, getting up from a chair or climbing stairs)
• Moderate-to-severe pain that occurs during rest or awakens you at night
• Chronic knee inflammation and swelling that is not relieved with rest or medications
• Failure to obtain pain relief from medications, injections, physical therapy or other conservative treatments

How is the Total Knee Replacement Procedure Performed?

Dr. Silver performs total knee replacement using advanced robotic-assisted technology, which allows precise planning and accurate bone preparation for improved alignment and implant positioning.

During the procedure, the robotic system helps guide bone cuts and implant placement to restore the natural alignment of the knee. The damaged cartilage and bone are removed, and the knee replacement implants are attached to the bone with or without bone cement depending on the patient’s bone quality and surgical plan.

The incision is closed using absorbable stitches beneath the skin, so there are no staples that need to be removed later. Surgical drains are not used, and knee immobilizers are not required after surgery.

What Does Postoperative Care for Total Knee Replacement Involve?

Recovery after knee replacement focuses on early motion, strengthening, and gradual return to normal activities. Instead of using a CPM (continuous passive motion) machine, patients are provided with a specialized exercise bicycle that is delivered to their home. This bicycle helps improve knee range of motion, strength, and overall recovery.

Patient progress is monitored throughout the recovery process to ensure the knee is regaining motion and strength appropriately. Most patients begin walking shortly after surgery and continue improving over the following weeks with guided rehabilitation.

What are the Risks and Complications of Total Knee Replacement?

As with any major surgery, the possible risks and complications associated with total knee replacement surgery include:

• Knee stiffness
• Infection
• Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis)
• Nerve and blood vessel damage
• Ligament injuries
• Patella (kneecap) dislocation
• Plastic liner wearing out
• Loosening of the implant

If you would like to have additional information on knee treatments or would like to learn more about total knee replacement, please contact Dr. Silver, serving the communities of Scottsdale.