JOINT REPLACEMENT
The knee is a complicated hinge joint. It is made up of bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. These components in combination enable us to stand, sit, pivot and walk up and downstairs. The most common disease to the knee joint is Arthritis. The word Arthritis literally means inflammation (‘Arth’ is joint, and ‘it is’ inflammation). There are several forms of Arthritis. Osteoarthritis is the most common form, and the knee is the most common joint affected. When the knee joint has been damaged by trauma or disease such as Arthritis, degeneration of the bony surfaces will occur. The bony surfaces are covered with a protective skin called articulating cartilage.
It is this protective coat that wears and causes the raw bone to rub on raw bone. Over time the joint slowly erodes until the underlying bone is exposed. For the individual the knee becomes painful. This can manifest as swelling, instability, and discomfort. Similar to hip surgery, knee surgery is indicated when you have advanced osteoarthritis of the knee joint and non-operative measures (eg. weight loss, anti-inflammatories, physiotherapy, etc) are no longer controlling your pain. Knee Replacement, Knee Resurfacing, Knee Arthroscopy & Knee reconstruction surgery are all safe & reliable procedures that can help relieve your pain and stiffness and return you to most of the activities you enjoy.
