Difference between partial and total knee replacement
Knee replacement surgery is a routine procedure for surgeons. The replacements last for more than 20 years in most cases and patients have seen dramatic improvements in their movement after the surgery. This article will explain who needs a knee replacement and the difference between total and partial knee replacement.
What is knee replacement surgery Singapore?
Normally, our knees slide over each other without causing any pain. However, when the covering of the knee bones wears out, you might have difficulty moving the knee as the bones rub and crush together. You might feel pain when the knee’s articular cartilage gets damaged.
Knee replacement simply means the process of surgically repairing the joint. The surgeon has to replace the damaged and degenerated joints using prosthetics or artificial body parts. Those who have gone through the surgery process are able to move properly without feeling the discomfort or pain that they felt before.
Common reasons for knee replacement surgery
- Osteoarthritis
Most people after crossing a certain age deal with osteoarthritis because of the normal wear and tear of the joints. Eventual loss of cartilage in the knee joint usually causes this type of arthritis and bones to rub together as the person moves. Over time, the bones become thicker and the movement process becomes difficult and painful.
- Rheumatoid arthritis
There is a membrane around the joints that can become inflamed and thick over time due to some reason. This inflammation might cause the cartilage to become stiff and sore.
- Post-traumatic arthritis
The reason behind this type of arthritis is a severe knee injury. The cartilage can become affected as the bones around the knee break.
Difference between partial and total knee replacement
Partial Knee Replacement
Compared to total replacement, the replacement is done only on one side of the knee joint. Those who have damaged one part of their knee should go for partial knee replacement where there are fewer chances of infection and blood clots. The movement after the surgery is comparatively normal. Moreover, your recovery time will also be shorter.
Total Knee Replacement
In this surgery, both sides of your knee joint will be replaced. This process can be completed within 3 hours. You might have difficulty bending the knee due to the scar tissue. However, you will be able to walk properly with less pain after the recovery period.
Conclusion
We hope now you understand the common reasons for knee replacement and the difference between partial and total replacement. You should consult the best surgeon to find out the best option for the condition.
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