Total Knee Arthroplasty — Procedure Guide, Recovery & Risks | MyMedicPlus

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) replaces the medial and lateral femoral condyles, tibial plateau, and optionally the patella with prosthetic components, restoring a pain-free joint surface and correcting deformity from advanced arthritis.

Indicated for end-stage osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or post-traumatic arthritis causing severe knee pain, functional limitation, and significantly reduced quality of life unresponsive to 3–6 months of conservative management.

A medial parapatellar or subvastus approach exposes the joint. Distal femur and proximal tibia are resected with precision cutting guides. Cemented or cementless metal components are implanted with a polyethylene bearing insert; the patella may be resurfaced.

Physiotherapy begins day 1 post-operatively; most patients walk with aids within 24 hours. Return to light activities at 6 weeks. Full recovery with low-impact activities such as swimming and cycling typically takes 3–6 months.

Risks include deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism, wound infection, prosthetic joint infection (1–2%), stiffness requiring manipulation under anaesthesia, and aseptic loosening or component failure over the longer term.

Implant survival exceeds 95% at 10 years and approximately 85–90% at 20 years. Patient satisfaction rates exceed 85%. Pain relief and functional improvement are well sustained long-term in appropriately selected patients.