Knee Replacement

Knee replacement (arthroplasty) is a surgical procedure to replace all or part of the knee joint with an artificial joint (prosthesis), to help relieve pain that cannot be controlled by other treatments. The pain usually is caused by severe damage to bone and cartilage at the lower end of the thigh bone (femur) and upper end of the shin bone (tibia). The back of the kneecap also may be replaced with artificial material.

Artificial joints usually are made of both metal and hard plastic parts, but ceramic parts also may be used. Recent improvements in surgical techniques and prosthesis design and materials have made joint replacement easier and longer-lasting, with less pain and fewer complications for patients. The patient’s orthopaedic surgeon decides which type of prosthesis to use. Our surgeons use the most updated techniques and technology, including robotic-assisted joint replacement surgery.

Based on the extent of joint damage, the surgeon also will determine whether to perform a full or partial knee joint replacement. Patients and their care team can discuss other choices for surgery, such as what types of anesthesia will be used and recovery preferences. In most cases, patients will go home the same day or within 24 hours, though some may need to stay longer.

As for anesthesia, patients may choose a spinal with a nerve block (medicine that numbs your lower body) or general anesthesia. Your joints care team will help you choose what is best suited for your case and preferences. Recovery takes 3-12 months in most cases.

Why choose UAB Medicine

Patients from across the nation trust their orthopaedic care to the specialists at UAB Medicine, where they benefit from treatment delivered by skilled professionals in a compassionate environment. Our physicians and surgeons perform a wide range of complex and minimally invasive procedures and treatments, from joint replacements and bone cancer screenings to scoliosis correction and injury repair. They work closely with UAB Medicine specialists in other areas – including physical therapists, nutritionists, and oncologists – to ensure that you receive comprehensive and personalized care.

We work with you to determine the best course of care for your individual needs, and we keep you informed every step of the way. You will find that we offer all levels of care and can take care of our patients from start to finish. Our team can manage anything from a simple first-time partial or total knee replacement to one that has been operated on numerous times and now requires extensive reconstruction using the most advanced medical techniques.

The UAB Orthopaedic Optimization Clinic helps patients prepare for knee or hip replacement with education, nutrition counseling, physical therapy, and other services that help improve overall results. This includes a robust joints care team that supports patients through every step of their journey.

Following a knee replacement, we encourage you to begin moving on the day of surgery with the help of physical therapy or nursing staff. You will work with physical therapists during your hospital stay, which will help improve and speed up your recovery and increase your chances of being discharged home rather than to a rehabilitation program or skilled nursing facility. We also offer partial knee replacement to those who meet the criteria for surgery. We provide pain control plans to help reduce discomfort and allow you to move better.

Our physicians receive additional training in their area of focus and stay up to date on the latest advances through professional medical societies such as the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons and the American Hip and Knee Society. Because our physicians and surgeons have leadership roles in professional medical societies and author textbooks that help mold tomorrow’s orthopaedic care, they are nationally and internationally recognized for their expertise.

Also, our providers are involved in numerous research studies focused on treating and diagnosing joint infection, improving patient outcomes, and biomechanical implants. This research could enhance the care you receive at UAB Medicine in the future.

Care Providers

Caleb Gandy, PA-C Orthopedic Surgery Scott Mabry, MD Orthopedic Surgery Oliver Scotting, MD Orthopedic Surgery

Videos

Resources

• UAB Department of Orthopaedic Surgery
• UAB Joint Center
• Total Replacement
• National Institutes of Health

Related Specialties

• Orthopaedic Services