Knee Joint Replacement

Knee arthritis is a degenerative condition most commonly associated with ageing, that causes swelling, stiffness and pain in the joints. It occurs when the lining of the knee joint wears out and causes pain and swelling. It is significantly worsened by obesity.

The most common type of arthritis is osteoarthritis which occurs mostly in people over age 50yrs, although younger people can also develop arthritis, particularly after a prior injury.

Women are more likely than men to develop knee arthritis, and often hormonal factors are linked to this, causing particular issues around the menopause.

Dr Markham also treats other types of arthritis including rheumatoid arthritis (auto-immune condition of the joints). This is when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the joint lining, causing swelling, joint deformity and pain.

Other common types of arthritis Dr Markham sees include psoriatic arthritis (which impacts people with skin psoriasis), gout (painful crystal build up in the joint), arthritis caused after a previous fracture, ligament tear or sporting injury, and as a result of septic arthritis (infection in the joint).

Knee joint replacement is a common procedure, with 78,125 procedures performed in 2023, according to the Australian National Joint Replacement Registry.

This surgery remains a vital treatment option for many individuals suffering from arthritis and chronic knee pain, offering significant relief and improving mobility.

The cumulative revision rate for all current knee replacements in Australia reached a record low of 7.3% in 2020, down from 8.8% in 2014. This decline reflects ongoing advancements in surgical techniques and prostheses, ensuring better outcomes and long-term success for patients undergoing knee replacement surgery.

Knee joint replacement surgery involves replacing the damaged or diseased surfaces of the knee with artificial components made of metal and engineered plastic.

These components are designed to allow for continued knee motion and help alleviate pain caused by severe arthritis.

Typically, knee replacements are performed on patients with advanced arthritis. The surgery can be performed on one knee (unilateral) or both knees (bilateral), depending on the patient’s condition.

Hospital Stay: Generally, patients stay in the hospital for about 5 days after surgery.

Postoperative Mobility: Patients often require mobility aids such as walking frames, crutches, or canes to assist in regaining their pre-surgery movement levels.

Return to Normal Activities: Many patients are able to resume driving safely after about 6 weeks and gradually increase walking distances.

Unicompartmental Knee Replacement

For individuals suffering from osteoarthritis confined to just one side of the knee, a unicompartmental knee replacement is a less invasive option compared to total knee replacement. This procedure is ideal for patients whose knee arthritis has not affected the entire joint.
During the consultation, Dr Markham will assess the extent of your arthritis to determine if this more localised approach is appropriate.

Total Knee Replacement

In cases of advanced knee arthritis, where the pain is severe and non-surgical treatments like medications and exercise fail to provide relief, a total knee replacement offers a highly effective solution.

This surgery, also known as knee arthroplasty, involves the replacement of the damaged knee cartilage surfaces. Knee arthroplasty involves implanting new femoral, tibial and patella components into the knee joint

The implants can be either cemented or press-fitted into position. The primary objective of this surgery is to restore balance to the knee joint, ensuring that future wear and tear occurs evenly over the implant surface, thus enhancing its longevity.

After surgery, physiotherapy is essential to help regain strength and mobility in the knee, supporting a faster recovery.

Dr Markham will work with you to choose the best surgery option based on your arthritis severity and lifestyle needs.

Hospital Stay: Generally, patients stay in the hospital for about a week post-surgery.

Postoperative Mobility: Patients often require mobility aids such as walking frames, crutches, or canes to assist in regaining their pre-surgery movement levels.

Return to Normal Activities: Many patients are able to resume driving safely after about 6 weeks and gradually increase walking distances.

Did you know? Approximately one in ten people will experience shoulder pain at some point in their lives. While shoulder issues can significantly impact daily activities, with proper treatment, at least half of those affected achieve full recovery within six months. By seeking expert care and timely treatment, you can significantly reduce the risk of recurrence and ensure long-term shoulder health and functionality.