Risks of Knee Replacement Surgery

Despite the positive results patients gain from knee replacement, some risks of the surgery may occur, such as:

  • Bleeding, which may be internal and discovered by the doctor through medical examinations.

  • Infection at the wound site, which can spread if sterilization was not proper during or after the surgery.

  • Sudden significant drop in blood pressure after the operation.

  • Damage to the nerves surrounding the joint.

  • Blood clots in the leg that may travel to the heart or lungs.

  • Stiffness of the knee and possible damage to the knee muscles.

  • Fracture of the bones around the joint, such as the femur or tibia.

  • Wear and tear of the artificial knee joint, which may require revision surgery.

However, success rates are very high, and choosing the best orthopedic doctor in Cairo Egypt greatly helps in avoiding complications.

Knee Replacement Surgery

Knee replacement or substitution with an artificial joint is a surgical procedure performed mainly to treat meniscus cartilage wear or knee joint cartilage damage. If not treated, the bones may start rubbing or eroding, making surgery necessary.

Reasons for Knee Replacement

  • Severe knee pain due to joint damage.

  • Osteoporosis and knee arthritis leading to cartilage wear.

  • Knee stiffness and difficulty in movement.

  • Loss of ability to walk normally without support.

  • Obesity which increases pressure on the joint.

  • Aging and deterioration of the natural joint.

  • Old deformities or accidents affecting the knee.

  • Rheumatoid arthritis causing chronic joint inflammation.

Procedure Steps

  • The patient is anesthetized, and the knee area is sterilized.

  • A surgical incision of about 8–12 cm is made in the front of the knee.

  • Damaged bone and tissue are removed to reach the joint.

  • The artificial knee joint is placed in its proper position.

  • Stability of the joint is checked, then tissues and skin are closed with dressings.

Post-Surgery Care

  • The patient usually stays in the hospital for a few days.

  • Strong painkillers are needed right after the operation.

  • The patient must inform the doctor if symptoms such as numbness, fever, headache, or bleeding appear.

  • Following the doctor’s instructions reduces complications.

Recovery Tips After Knee Replacement

  • Rest and elevate the leg with ice packs to reduce swelling.

  • Perform simple exercises to activate blood circulation.

  • Start walking gradually using a crutch.

  • Avoid heavy pressure or deep bending of the knee.

  • Follow a healthy diet to maintain ideal weight.

  • Avoid direct water flow on the wound until stitches are removed.

Success Rate

Knee replacement success rate reaches around 95%, especially when performed by an experienced orthopedic surgeon and with patient commitment to recovery instructions.

Pain After Surgery

Pain is at its peak immediately after the operation, then decreases gradually until it disappears, usually within two months, depending on medications and physical therapy.

Swelling After Knee Replacement

Swelling may persist for up to six months but improves with treatment and physiotherapy. Sometimes swelling could indicate a blood clot, so regular follow-up with the doctor is crucial