Knee Replacement
Total and Partial Knee Arthroplasty in Dallas
Knee replacement surgery, also known as total knee arthroplasty, is a procedure performed to relieve pain and restore function in patients with advanced knee joint damage. It is most commonly recommended for individuals with severe osteoarthritis, degenerative joint disease, or structural joint deterioration that no longer responds to conservative treatment.
The goal of knee replacement is to remove damaged cartilage and bone surfaces and replace them with precisely aligned implants designed to restore stability, alignment, and motion.
Treatment recommendations are based on clinical examination, diagnostic imaging, symptom severity, and functional limitations.
Conditions Treated
Knee replacement surgery may be recommended for patients with advanced joint damage, chronic pain, stiffness, or reduced mobility caused by arthritis or injury. Each patient is evaluated to determine appropriate treatment options.
- Osteoarthritis of the knee
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Post-traumatic arthritis
- Chronic knee pain and stiffness
- Joint instability or deformity
- Limited mobility affecting daily activities
Accurate diagnosis is confirmed through physical examination and imaging studies such as X-ray or MRI.
When Is Knee Replacement Recommended?
- Non surgical treatment no longer provides relief
- Pain limits daily activities such as walking or climbing stairs
- Knee stiffness significantly reduces range of motion
- Joint damage is visible on imaging
- Quality of life is affected by persistent symptoms
Conservative treatment options are typically considered first, including medication, physical therapy, and injection therapy.
Conservative treatment options are typically considered first, including medication, physical therapy, and injection therapy.
Types of Knee Replacement Procedures
- Total Knee Replacement
Total knee replacement involves resurfacing the damaged joint surfaces of the femur, tibia, and sometimes the patella. Medical grade implants are secured to restore proper alignment and function.
This procedure is most commonly recommended for advanced arthritis affecting multiple compartments of the knee.
- Partial Knee Replacement
Partial knee replacement may be appropriate when joint damage is confined to a single compartment. This approach preserves healthy bone and ligaments and may allow for a more natural knee motion in properly selected patients.
Patient selection is determined through careful clinical evaluation and imaging.
- Revision Knee Replacement
Revision surgery is performed when a prior knee replacement fails due to implant wear, loosening, infection, instability, or persistent pain. These procedures require advanced surgical planning and experience in joint reconstruction.
Non Surgical Treatment Options
- Physical therapy
- Anti inflammatory medication
- Activity modification
- Corticosteroid injections
- Viscosupplementation
- Bracing
Benefits of Knee Replacement
- Reduction of chronic joint pain
- Improved mobility
- Increased joint stability
- Enhanced quality of life
- Improved ability to perform daily activities
Recovery and Rehabilitation
- Restoring range of motion
- Strengthening surrounding muscles
- Improving balance
- Gradual return to activity
Frequently Asked Questions
The following questions address common topics related to appointments, treatment planning, and patient care. If you need additional information, our office is available to assist.
Will I be in a lot of pain after knee replacement surgery?
Some discomfort is expected after surgery, but modern pain management techniques help keep patients comfortable throughout recovery. Most patients find that the long-term relief from arthritis pain far outweighs the temporary post-surgical discomfort.
How soon can I walk after surgery?
Many patients begin standing and walking with assistance on the same day or the day after surgery. Physical therapy starts early to help restore mobility and strength.
Will I need physical therapy after my knee replacement?
Yes. Physical therapy is a key part of recovery and helps improve flexibility, strength, and range of motion. Following your rehabilitation plan can significantly improve your outcome.
Will my new knee feel natural?
While your knee may feel different from a natural joint, most patients report significant improvements in mobility and function. Over time, many people forget about the limitations they experienced before surgery and return to an active lifestyle.
Why Dallas Patients Choose Dr. Appleton?
