The knee, an intricate joint linking the leg bones, may necessitate knee replacement surgery when it’s affected by arthritis or injury, causing the deterioration of its bones and cartilage. In such cases, surgeons replace the entire damaged knee joint with an artificial prosthesis. The prosthesis includes metal components for the femur and tibia and a plastic spacer in between to allow smooth movement.
Myth 1: Knee replacement surgery has very low success rate
Fact: With proper indication and appropriate technique in most cases, total knee replacements have a 95% success rate and offer the best solution for those unable to perform basic daily tasks due to severe knee pain.
Myth 2: Delaying knee replacement surgery is the best approach
Fact: Waiting until the pain is unbearable is not advisable. Delaying surgery can make the procedure more complex and lead to worsening health over time.
Myth 3: Bending the knee or sitting on the floor remains challenging after knee replacement surgery
Fact: This is a common misconception, but the reality varies. The extent of knee mobility post-surgery depends on the quality of the procedure, the type of prosthesis, and the patient’s post-operative recovery. Some prostheses enable near-normal knee movements.
Myth 4: Knee replacement isn’t suitable for older individuals
Fact: Knee replacement is in fact surgery of the old age .However delaying the surgery make individual life of patient hell to perform activities of daily living .Also the procedure becomes risky as you grow old due to heart and other metabolic problems .Ideal age to undergo Knee replacement is 60 years.
Myth 5: Knee replacements wear out quickly and require frequent replacements
Fact: Top-quality knee implants are long-lasting, and the majority of patients won’t require a second replacement surgery. Average life span of these implants is around 20-25 years.
Myth 6: Concerns about reactions or side effects from joint implants
Fact: Modern artificial joints are crafted from biocompatible metals designed to work harmoniously with your body, ensuring they remain in place without adverse effects.
Myth 7: Diabetes and high blood pressure may disqualify me from knee replacement surgery
Fact: Diabetes and blood pressure are not barriers to knee replacement surgery, as long as these conditions are well-managed. Modern medications are effective in controlling them.
In conclusion, now that we’ve dispelled common myths about total knee replacement surgery, it’s evident that opting for the procedure is a sound decision. Postponing or needlessly delaying surgery is inadvisable.