Total Knee Replacement in Central GA

Is Total Knee Replacement Right for Me?

For many of those with knee pain, nonsurgical treatment methods can help manage the pain. For some, however, severe knee pain does not respond to conservative treatment methods and continues to limit a person’s ability to function normally on a daily basis. There are several signs that suggest that it may be a good time to start thinking about total knee replacement. Knee replacement surgery is often recommended for those with severe knee pain or stiffness that limits everyday activities, such as walking, climbing stairs, and getting in and out of a chair. These patients often need to use a cane or walker to move. Knee pain while resting may also indicate that surgery may be needed to address the pain. Chronic knee inflammation and swelling, along with pain that has not responded to other treatment methods, can also make someone a reasonable candidate for total knee replacement. The most common condition that prompts patients to seek out knee replacement surgery is arthritis.

Before Your Knee Replacement

Once you and your doctor decide that total knee replacement is the best next step for you, your care team at OrthoGeorgia will provide you with information on how to prepare for the procedure. They will let you know what you should do and avoid in the days and hours before your scheduled procedure and will ensure that you have the resources you need for a successful recovery. You should keep in mind that you will need help with household tasks in the weeks following your surgery. You should also prepare your home accordingly by preparing your meals ahead of time, scheduling pet care (if needed), and removing all loose carpets, cords, and other tripping hazards from your space.

During Your Knee Replacement

Total knee replacement surgery can take anywhere from one to two hours. During the procedure, your surgeon will remove the damaged cartilage and bone from the knee, and then replace it with an implant made of metal and plastic that replicates the size, shape, and function of a natural knee joint. At OrthoGeorgia, we are proud to utilize Mako Robotic-Arm Assisted technology for total knee replacements in Central GA. This process uses 3D CT-based planning software to create a personalized surgical plan for your joint replacement. During your surgery, the Mako system will guide your surgeon within the predefined surgical area, which supports the accurate placement and alignment of your knee implant. Your surgeon and the members of your care team will happily answer any questions you have about the knee replacement process and what you can expect from your procedure.

After Your Knee Replacement

Your care team at OrthoGeorgia will ensure you have all the information needed for a successful recovery following your total knee replacement. They will inform you of your recovery timeline and when you can resume your usual activities. Your recovery plan is likely to include icing and elevating your knee, keeping your incision site clean and covered, and performing home exercises to strengthen the muscles around the knee and prevent stiffness. You will also work with a physical therapist after your procedure. Our physical therapists at OrthoGeorgia work closely with our physicians to provide a true team approach and continuity of care for all of our patients. Patients who have undergone a total knee replacement can work with our rehabilitation team in Macon (Buildings A and B), Warner Robins, and Kathleen.