Indications
A patient is usually considered for total knee replacement only when several clinical conditions are met at the same time.
Main conditions
- Long-standing, substantial pain due to significant knee arthritis
- Pain not adequately relieved by simpler methods
- Symptoms interfere with activities of daily living more than the patient is willing to accept
- Patient understands the limitations and risks associated with an artificial joint
- Patient is willing to go through the operation and the rehabilitation
- Is medically fit
How the decision is made
In order to be a good candidate for total knee replacement, certain conditions must be met. The arthritis must be causing significant pain present for at least a number of months.
Simpler treatments ought to have been tried and failed.
The symptoms have to significantly interfere with activities of daily living.
The candidate has to understand the risks and be willing to accept the limitations of an artificial knee joint.
The patient also has to be willing to go through the recovery and rehabilitation process. Recovery after knee replacement typically takes about 6 months, although in some patients improvement can continue for 18 to 24 months.
Lastly, the patient must be medically fit to undergo such an operation.