Total Knee Replacement
What Is Total Knee Arthroplasty?
Knee arthroplasty, commonly known as total knee replacement, is a surgical procedure that resurfaces all three compartments of the knee joint — the inner (medial), outer (lateral), and kneecap (patellofemoral) compartments — with durable metal and plastic implants. When arthritis has worn away the cartilage throughout the entire joint rather than being confined to just one area, resurfacing the whole joint provides more reliable, lasting pain relief than treating only part of the knee.
This is a different, more extensive procedure than a partial knee replacement, which resurfaces only one damaged compartment while leaving the rest of the knee’s own cartilage and ligaments in place. Learn more about that option on our Partial Knee Replacement page.
When Is Total Knee Arthroplasty Needed?
Total knee replacement is generally recommended for patients who have:
- Advanced arthritis affecting multiple or all compartments of the knee, confirmed on imaging
- Significant pain that limits daily activities like walking, climbing stairs, or standing for extended periods
- Symptoms that haven’t responded adequately to nonsurgical treatments, including physical therapy, weight management, bracing, and injections
- Progressive stiffness or deformity of the knee, such as increasing bowlegged or knock-kneed alignment as arthritis advances
How Is Total Knee Arthroplasty Performed?
Through an incision at the front of the knee, the surgeon removes the damaged cartilage and a thin layer of underlying bone from the end of the femur, the top of the tibia, and often the underside of the kneecap. Precisely sized implants are then fitted into place: a metal component resurfaces the end of the femur, a metal tray with a durable plastic spacer resurfaces the top of the tibia, and in many cases, a plastic button resurfaces the back of the kneecap. Together, these components recreate a smooth, low-friction joint surface, allowing the knee to bend and straighten with far less pain than the arthritic joint it replaces.
Dr. Palsis uses precise implant positioning and alignment tailored to each patient’s individual anatomy.
Total vs. Partial Knee Replacement
The choice between these two procedures depends on how much of the knee is affected by arthritis. A partial knee replacement is only appropriate when damage is confined to a single compartment, with the remaining cartilage, ligaments, and joint surfaces still healthy. When arthritis has progressed throughout the entire joint, a total knee replacement is the more appropriate and durable solution, since resurfacing only part of a knee with widespread arthritis would leave damaged, painful surfaces behind. Imaging, along with a thorough physical exam, helps determine which procedure best matches the extent of a patient’s arthritis.
Coast your way to recovery
Dr. Palsis utilizes innovative treatment techniques to get you back in motion and back to the life you love.
Recovery After Total Knee Arthroplasty
- Most patients begin walking with assistance the same day as surgery or the following morning
- Physical therapy starts early, typically within the first day, focusing on regaining motion and rebuilding strength
- Many patients transition from a walker to a cane, and eventually to walking independently, over the first several weeks
- Most patients resume most daily activities within 6 to 12 weeks, though continued improvement in strength and endurance often continues for up to a year
- Low-impact activities like walking, swimming, and cycling are generally encouraged long-term, while higher-impact activities are typically discouraged to help protect the longevity of the implant
Total knee replacement is one of the most successful and reliable procedures in orthopedic surgery, with the large majority of patients reporting significant, lasting pain relief and improved function.
Get back to what moves you
Dr. Palsis specializes in the treatment of knee, shoulder, and sports injuries.