Conclusion
Knee replacement surgery is also known as knee resurfacing because it involves taking out the surface of both articulations and replacing them with metal components and a plastic gliding surface. This procedure is complex and requires a previous examination by a professional to make sure that you’re a candidate. However, there are still ways to suspect that you need this type of surgery.
There are many treatments to try before considering this surgery. They include oral medications, intra-articular injections, creams, ointments, exercise, physical therapy, and weight loss. These options are usually tried before surgery, which is left as the last resource.
You’re likely a candidate for this surgery if you have long-term knee pain that does not resolve with the aforementioned treatment options. This type of pain is usually worse at night or when trying to rest. In some cases, patients may also experience knee deformity. The leg starts bowing in or out, and they are severely inflamed without significant improvements.
If you are a candidate, you will go through a series of exams to ensure that surgery is a safe option. Once you are cleared, and after considering your laboratory tests, imaging tests, and physical exam, your doctor will make his recommendations, and knee replacement therapy can be one of them.
Some patients are likely to need knee replacement therapy at some point during their lifetime. However, it is also essential to know that there’s a limited lifetime of the surgery, and it is often recommended for older adults with limited physical activity.
