Total Knee Arthroplasty: Procedure and Rehabilitation

Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA)

Surgical procedure for end-stage osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

End-stage OA

Final phase of osteoarthritis with severe joint damage.

End-stage RA

Final phase of rheumatoid arthritis affecting joint function.

Joint surfaces resection

Removal of distal femur, proximal tibia, posterior patella.

Prosthetic components

Metal and polyethylene parts replacing joint surfaces.

Polymethyl methacrylate

Cement used for immediate fixation of prosthetics.

Porous coated prosthesis

Used in younger patients for better bone integration.

Cemented TKA failure

Occurs due to wear of bone cement over time.

Uncemented components benefits

Durable interface and easier revision surgeries.

Hospitalization duration

Typically 2-3 days post-surgery for recovery.

Preoperative Rehabilitation

Cost-effective education and exercise before surgery.

Patient education topics

Includes procedure details, expectations, and rehab plans.

Individualized exercise program

Tailored to patient needs based on surgery timing.

Postoperative Rehabilitation

Begins within 24 hours after surgery for recovery.

Cryotherapy

Cold treatment to reduce pain and swelling post-surgery.

Knee PROM

Passive range of motion exercises for knee recovery.

Arthrofibrosis

Excessive scar tissue formation limiting joint motion.

Knee extension loss impact

5-degree loss increases quadriceps force during gait.

Knee range goals

Aim for 0-90 degrees in the first week.

Continuous passive motion machines

Not recommended for uncomplicated TKA patients.

Assessment tools

Berg balance test, Time up & go, 30 sec sit-to-stand.

Patient-reported outcomes

WOMAC, KOOS, and short form 36 for tracking progress.

TKA life expectancy

Average functional lifespan is around 25 years.