Nowadays, knee replacement surgeries have become an important option for many people looking for a solution to pain and movement limitation caused by knee joint disorders. Knee replacement surgeries performed in Turkey with advanced medical technology and specialised physicians in this field offer patients a new quality of life. So what is knee replacement and who needs it?
What is Knee Replacement?
A knee replacement is a medical device used to restore the function of the knee joint or to alleviate problems such as pain and discomfort. It is usually used in cases of damage or wear in the knee joint caused by degenerative diseases, calcification, trauma or other causes.
Knee prostheses include artificial joint components, usually made of artificial materials. The prosthesis includes components made of metal and plastic that are inserted into the femur (thigh bone) and tibia (shin bone) bones. These components are designed to mimic the natural movement of the knee.
Knee replacement surgery is often preferred to deal with problems such as knee pain, movement restrictions and a decrease in quality of life. This type of surgery can help individuals to continue their daily life activities more comfortably.
Who Needs Knee Replacement?
Knee replacement is a treatment option considered for individuals with serious knee problems. People with osteoarthritis (arthritis), rheumatoid arthritis, knee joint trauma, congenital anomalies, aseptic necrosis and inflammatory joint diseases may need knee replacement.
Knee replacement is usually considered when other treatment methods (medications, physiotherapy, intra-articular injections) have failed or seriously affect the individual's quality of life.
What are Knee Prostheses Made of?
Knee prostheses are usually manufactured from materials such as titanium, metal alloys such as cobalt-chromium, high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic, ceramics, acrylic and methacrylate. The selection of these materials is made to ensure the durability, biological compatibility and wear resistance of the prosthesis. Knee prostheses are manufactured from these materials due to their longevity, compatibility with the body and durability. Medproper prefers Smith&Nephew products at this point.
Are Platinum and Prosthesis the Same Thing?
Platinum and prosthesis are two separate terms representing different concepts and application areas. Platinum is a chemical element and is commonly used in jewellery making, industrial applications and electronics. As a durable, corrosion-resistant and precious metal, platinum is often preferred for its aesthetic and industrial properties. However, in the medical field, a prosthesis is an artificial device used to restore the functionality of a damaged or missing organ or joint in the body.
Medical prostheses, such as knee prostheses, are usually manufactured from metal alloys such as titanium, cobalt-chromium, high-density polyethylene plastic, ceramics and other biocompatible materials. These materials are selected to ensure that the prosthesis is compatible and durable in the body. Medical prostheses can help the individual regain mobility and are usually implanted through surgical interventions. Unlike platinum, prostheses usually target functional improvements and are designed for use in medical applications. Therefore, both terms play important roles in different industries and contexts.
What is Unilateral Knee Replacement Surgery?
Unilateral knee replacement surgery is a surgical procedure in which prosthesis implantation is performed in only one knee joint. This surgery is usually performed due to severe pain, degenerative conditions or other serious problems in the knee on only one side. Unilateral knee replacement surgery is performed to treat problems and restore mobility in a specific knee for the patient.
This surgery is usually considered to alleviate pain in the knee joint, movement restrictions and a decrease in quality of life. A knee replacement involves an artificial joint, usually made of metal and plastic, and is intended to function in a similar way to a natural knee joint. This prosthesis is placed in place of a damaged or degenerative knee joint.
Unilateral knee replacement surgery is usually a treatment option for problems in a particular knee of the patient and if the other knee joint is healthy. The rehabilitation process after surgery includes physical therapy and the process of regaining mobility.
What is Bilateral Knee Replacement Surgery?
Bilateral knee replacement surgery is a surgical procedure in which prosthesis implantation is performed in both knee joints at the same time. This surgery is usually considered in cases where the patient has similar problems in both knees, such as severe pain, movement restrictions or degenerative conditions. Bilateral knee replacement surgery aims to complete the patient's recovery and rehabilitation in a single period by implanting prostheses in both knees in a single surgical session.
This type of surgery usually involves addressing both knees in a single process instead of two separate surgical intervention processes. Knee replacement surgeries usually aim to reduce pain in the knee joint, movement restrictions and a decrease in quality of life. This surgery may be preferred as a solution to problems often caused by knee arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, knee traumas or other serious knee problems.
How Long Does Recovery After Surgery Take?
Recovery time after knee replacement surgery varies depending on a number of factors. Each patient is different and the recovery process may vary depending on the personal health condition, the patient's age, physical condition and post-surgical rehabilitation programme. However, the following stages are generally considered:
Hospital Stay: Hospital stay after knee replacement surgery usually ranges from 2 to 4 days. This period may vary depending on the complexity of the surgery and the general health status of the patient.
Early Recovery (First 6 Weeks): The first 6 weeks after surgery include a recovery process that usually begins with slow weight bearing and physical therapy. During this period, patients usually move around using supportive devices.
Mid-term Recovery (6 Weeks - 3 Months): At this stage, patients' weight bearing capacity usually increases and physical therapy sessions continue. The swelling and pain of the knee decreases, but full recovery is still ongoing.
Long Term Recovery (3 Months and After): At this stage, patients usually begin to return to their normal activities. However, the full recovery process may take several months to a year.
The patient's full compliance with the rehabilitation programme after surgery and following the doctor's recommendations can positively affect the recovery process. The recovery process is personal and differs for each patient, so it is important to assess your individual situation and follow your doctor's recommendations.
Can I Continue My Normal Life After Knee Replacement Surgery?
Yes, usually patients can return to their normal life after knee replacement surgery. Knee replacement surgery is performed to alleviate pain in the knee joint, movement restrictions and a decrease in quality of life. Although the recovery process after surgery varies depending on individual differences, many people experience significant improvement after surgery and can return to their normal daily activities.
In order to return to your normal life after knee replacement surgery, physical therapy and rehabilitation, following the doctor's recommendations, paying attention to body weight and lifestyle are extremely important.
What Should Be Considered After Knee Replacement Surgery?
After knee replacement surgery, it is important to pay attention to a number of important factors to ensure an effective recovery process and a normal life. Firstly, it is critical to strictly follow the doctor's instructions. This usually includes medication, physical therapy sessions and a rehabilitation programme. Regular check-ups can also help your doctor monitor the condition of the prosthesis and detect potential problems early. These check-ups are important to prevent any complications that may occur in the postoperative period.
Physical therapy and exercise programmes are used to increase muscle strength, restore joint mobility and improve walking ability in the postoperative period. Regular participation in these programmes supports the healthy integration and function of the prosthesis. In addition, adopting a healthy diet and maintaining an ideal body weight can also reduce stress on the knee prosthesis.
It is also important to avoid excessive strain after surgery. Avoiding high-impact sports or heavy lifting can prolong the life of the prosthesis and increase the durability of the implant. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle will improve overall health and contribute to a successful outcome of knee replacement surgery. However, as every patient is different, it is important to act in accordance with your doctor's recommendations specific to your individual situation.
Is It Possible to Climb Stairs with a Knee Prosthesis?
Stairs can be climbed with a knee replacement, but it is important to do so carefully and using the correct techniques. The ability to climb stairs after knee replacement surgery may vary depending on the patient's preoperative condition, postoperative recovery process and physical condition.
When climbing stairs with a knee replacement, it is generally recommended to climb to the top of the stairs using the healthy leg first. Then, the prosthetic leg follows. During descent, the prosthetic leg descends first, followed by the other leg.
Why Turkey Should Be Preferred for Knee Replacement Surgery?
There are several important reasons for choosing Turkey for knee replacement surgery:
High Standard Health Services: Turkey is a country known for its modern medical technology and high standards of healthcare. Many hospitals and health institutions are equipped in accordance with international standards.
Experienced and Expert Surgeons: Orthopaedic surgeons and healthcare professionals in Turkey are often internationally recognised experts. Surgeons with high quality training and extensive experience can successfully perform complex orthopaedic interventions such as knee replacement surgeries.
Economic Cost: Health care in Turkey can often be more affordable than in other countries. Access to high quality healthcare services can be provided at a more affordable cost.
Medical Tourism Opportunities: Turkey is a popular destination for medical tourism. Medical tourism enables foreign patients to come to Turkey and benefit from quality healthcare services.
Developed Health Infrastructure: Turkey has developed its healthcare infrastructure in recent years and has hospitals equipped with modern medical equipment. This allows successful and safe surgical interventions to be performed.
Cultural Diversity and Touristic Opportunities: Turkey offers various cultural and touristic facilities for patients to rest and recover after the medical treatment process. Patients can spend their post-operative treatment in a pleasant way and explore the beauties of the country.
A knee replacement is an artificial joint implant that offers a solution to knee joint problems. It is used to restore mobility and reduce pain.