Total Knee Replacement.

Procedure overview

A 90-minute procedure under spinal or general anaesthesia. Computer navigation uses infrared tracking and pre-operative landmarks to position cutting guides to within a fraction of a degree — ensuring optimal implant alignment, which is one of the strongest predictors of long-term implant survival.

Most implants are cemented with PMMA bone cement; cementless fixation is used in select cases. The patella is resurfaced when indicated.

Implant composition

• Femoral component — cobalt-chrome alloy, anatomically shaped
• Tibial component — titanium tray
• Polyethylene liner — highly cross-linked, anti-oxidant treated
• Patellar button — when patellofemoral resurfacing is required

Pre-surgery preparation

Health optimisation in the weeks before surgery reduces complication risk:

• Smoking cessation — at least 8 weeks before surgery if possible
• Diabetes control — HbA1c ideally below 7.5%
• Weight management
• Resolution of any active dental infection

You will be sent a pre-admission pack and anaesthetic questionnaire. See Planning For Surgery.

Recovery timeline

• Day 0 — standing same day with physiotherapy
• Day 2–3 — discharge from hospital
• Week 2–4 — crutches gradually reduced
• Week 6 — return to driving (right knee); office work
• Month 3 — most daily activities restored
• Month 6 — full recovery; most pain and stiffness resolved

Risks

• Infection
• Stiffness
• Deep vein thrombosis / pulmonary embolism
• Nerve injury
• Periprosthetic fracture
• Cardiac and anaesthetic events

Activity guidance

Walking, cycling, swimming, golf, doubles tennis, and skiing are all reasonable activities after a successful knee replacement. Running and high-impact sport are generally discouraged to preserve implant longevity.

Implant longevity

Modern implants with cross-linked polyethylene liners produce strong long-term results. Registry data supports excellent survivorship at 10–15 years and beyond.