Total knee replacement, also known as total knee arthroplasty (TKA), is one of the most successful surgical procedures for the treatment of knee arthritis. It is one of the most common orthopedic procedures in the nation.

The knees (and other joints) are often affected by osteoarthritis, a degenerative condition that causes deterioration of bones and cartilage as we age. Common in people over age 50, the problem occurs when protective cartilage has become brittle and can no longer shield the knee joint from friction.

Rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease, also causes degeneration of the knee joint cartilage and may affect the tissue that surround and lubricate the joint, causing wear and tear that leads to arthritis pain.

Most individuals who consider total knee replacement experience some or all of the following symptoms:

• Pain and swelling in the knee
• Knee pain that keeps you awake at night
• Knee pain that limits movements, such as climbing stairs or standing up
• Stiffness, sometimes extreme, making it difficult to bend and straighten the knee
• Limited range of motion

Total knee replacement is a surgical procedure that involves removing the diseased joint and inserting an artificial replacement joint (an orthopedic implant) in its place. The replacement joint imitates the function and feel of the natural knee, and restores the alignment and function.

Partial knee replacement may be possible when there is damage to only one part of the joint. In this procedure, only part of the joint is replaced.
An orthopedic surgeon at Lancaster Orthopedic Group who specializes in knee replacement surgery will help you decide whether you should have a partial or total knee replacement.