Total Knee Replacement

Total knee replacement provides lasting relief for chronic knee pain.  Kevin M. Moran, MD, in The Woodlands, Texas, is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon. Dr. Moran has been performing total knee replacements for over 20 years. Total knee replacement is a common and reliable, long-lasting treatment for knee pain due to osteoarthritis. Call Kevin M. Moran, MD, today to schedule a total knee replacement consultation, or book your appointment online.

I have knee pain. Could total knee replacement help?

Most people experience knee pain at one time or another. Usually, it improves with rest, ice, and activity modification. 

Dr. Moran uses total knee replacement to treat knee problems that don’t respond to other measures. For example, you might benefit if you have ongoing knee pain caused by a chronic condition, such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, or post-traumatic arthritis.

Who is a candidate for total knee replacement?

Dr. Moran typically recommends conservative treatments first. If your knee pain continues or worsens, even after injections or physical therapy, you might benefit from surgery.

Let Dr. Moran know about the medications and supplements you take. Certain drugs, like blood thinners and anti-inflammatories, increase the risk of bruising and bleeding, so you will need to stop taking them before surgery.

What happens during total knee replacement?

The procedure is performed in the hospital under general anesthesia that puts you to sleep. Then an incision is made over the knee joint, and surgical tools are used to remove the diseased or damaged tissue. He replaces your joint with a prosthetic joint, which is a metal and plastic knee joint, restoring the function and alignment of your knee.

After total knee replacement, most people spend at least one night in the hospital. You might need to stay longer if you have an underlying condition that increases your risk of post-surgical complications.

What is recovery like after total knee replacement?

After total knee replacement, it’s normal to have swelling, bruising, and increased sensitivity.

After the procedure, you begin physical therapy. Physical therapy combines stretches, strengthening exercises, and activity modification to restore your mobility and independence. In general, it takes about 6 weeks to be about 80% recovered and about 3 months to be recovered. 

Follow Dr. Moran’s instructions carefully, attend your checkups, and take your medications as directed.

How long does a new knee joint last?

Prosthetic knee joints experience general wear-and-tear, but they’re quite durable. Research suggests 82% of artificial knee joints still function 25 years later. 

By maintaining a healthy weight and exercising regularly, you can keep your artificial knee in top shape for years to come.

Call Kevin M. Moran, MD, today to schedule a total knee replacement consultation, or book your appointment online.