Knee Replacement Surgery: Who Needs It and What Is Recovery Like?

Wear and tear of the knee joint (osteoarthritis) can cause pain and loss of movement that seriously limit daily life. If complaints continue despite medication, physiotherapy, weight control and injections, your orthopedic surgeon may recommend knee replacement surgery. A knee replacement is a procedure in which the damaged joint surfaces are replaced with artificial parts.

Who needs a knee replacement?

The decision is made by evaluating the patient's complaints, examination findings and imaging results together. It is usually considered in the following situations:

• Advanced knee osteoarthritis
• Inflammatory diseases that damage the joint, such as rheumatoid arthritis
• Joint damage caused by previous injuries
• Pain that continues even at rest and disturbs sleep
• A marked reduction in walking distance despite other treatments

Total and partial knee replacement

In a total knee replacement, all surfaces of the joint are replaced. A partial knee replacement may be an option when the damage is limited to only one part of the knee. Your orthopedic surgeon decides which method is suitable based on how widespread the joint damage is.

Preparing for surgery

Before surgery, tests such as blood work and a heart and lung assessment are carried out. Always tell your doctor about the medicines you take, especially blood thinners. Preparing your home for the recovery period also makes things easier, for example by removing slippery rugs and placing frequently used items within easy reach.

How is the surgery performed?

The operation is usually performed under spinal or general anesthesia and most often takes 1-2 hours. The surgeon removes the damaged cartilage and bone surfaces and replaces them with prosthetic components made of metal and a special plastic.

Recovery

• First days: Most patients stand up and start walking with support and a physiotherapist shortly after surgery, usually on the same or the following day.
• Hospital stay: For most patients it is a few days; the length depends on the patient's general condition.
• First weeks: Walking with a walker or crutches and regular exercises continue, and the wound is checked.
• Long term: A return to daily activities usually begins within a few weeks, while full recovery can take several months.

Regular participation in the physiotherapy program is one of the most important factors in the success of the surgery.

Possible risks

As with any surgical procedure, a knee replacement carries risks such as infection, blood clots (thrombosis), joint stiffness or loosening of the prosthesis over time. Your doctor takes the necessary precautions to reduce these risks, and it is important to discuss them in detail before surgery.

Knee replacement in Turkey

Many hospitals in Turkey serve international patients with experienced orthopedic teams and modern operating rooms. Patients coming from abroad should plan their post-operative follow-up and fitness to fly in advance. On long flights after surgery, always follow your doctor's advice to reduce the risk of blood clots.

You can see our orthopedic specialists below, and contact us with any questions.

This article is for general information only; always consult a physician for diagnosis and treatment decisions.