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Artificial knee joint

What is an artificial knee joint?

An artificial knee joint serves as a joint replacement and takes over the functions of the natural knee joint. A knee prosthesis is often used and always when conservative measures have not brought any improvement in the symptoms. The aim is to increase the quality of life and restore the function of the knee.

The knee must bear the entire load of our weight and at the same time be very mobile. So it performs a very important function in many everyday activities. This includes, for example, climbing stairs or walking normally. Our knee consists of the femur, tibia and kneecap, the so-called patella. From a structural point of view, it is an open joint. This is held together only by muscles and ligaments.

A layer of cartilage on the joint surfaces ensures optimal movement of the thigh and shin without causing pain.

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Orthopädie Zentrum München Ost - Knie - Erkrankungen

Table of Contents:

Artificial knee joint – what are the reasons for a knee prosthesis?

Artificial knee prostheses – what are the applications and types?
What materials can an artificial knee joint be made of?
What surgical methods can be used for implantation?
Artificial knee joint – what are the complications or risks?
Tips for the period after implantation of an artificial knee joint

Artificial knee joint – what are the reasons for a knee prosthesis?

Persistent pain in the knee joint, which is evident with almost every movement, may indicate the need for an artificial knee joint. As a rule, conservative therapy is started. If this is not successful, a knee endoprosthesis can provide freedom from symptoms. One of the most common reasons for a prosthesis is age-related osteoarthritis. The cartilage layer wears away and can even dissolve completely in places. This inevitably means that the bone surfaces rub against each other without protection, resulting in pain with every movement. Deformation of bones is also possible. Other reasons that may speak for an artificial joint:

Congenital or acquired deformities
Tumors
Bone defects

Advanced wear and tear always necessitates the use of an endoprosthesis. Especially if there is no improvement even when the knee is at rest.

Artificial knee prostheses – what are the applications and types?

There are different types of artificial knee prostheses, the use of which depends on the extent of the worn cartilage layer. In terms of design, this is a prosthesis for surface replacement. The worn, damaged joint surfaces are to be disguised, so to speak. A distinction is made between the following types:

Sled endoprosthesis (KTEP): This is a partial replacement that replaces only the entire damaged joint surfaces in the area of the femur and tibia.
Partial prostheses or patelloformal endoprosthesis: This is a partial replacement that is only used in the case of partial cartilage damage and specifically replaces only the damaged joint surfaces.

At our Orthopedic Center Munich East, we will show you which type of artificial knee joint is suitable for you.

What materials can an artificial knee joint be made of?

An artificial knee joint must meet certain qualitative requirements in order to remain in the body for as long as possible and function properly. As a rule, high-quality metal alloys are used for knee prostheses. Titanium or cobalt-chromium compounds are usually used. It is important that the materials used are compatible with the body and insensitive to wear. The sliding surfaces are usually made of polyethylene. This material convinces with a very low abrasion and very good sliding properties.

What surgical methods can be used for implantation?

Implantation of an artificial knee joint can be performed under general or spinal anesthesia. Spinal anesthesia is administered through the spinal cord so that only the lower limbs are anesthetized. The surgical method depends on the type of knee prosthesis to be used. If, for example, only part of the joint is to be replaced by a prosthesis, the surgery can be performed in a minimally invasive manner. If the implantation is somewhat more extensive, the surgery is performed on the opened joint.

Artificial knee joint – what are the complications or risks?

Every operation and every procedure, no matter how small, is associated with risks. The anesthesia itself carries risks, such as intolerance symptoms to the anesthetic used. Other complications that can occur during the implantation of an artificial knee joint:

Thrombosis in the veins of the legs
Infections or wound healing disorders
Injury to nerves or vessels

After the operation, adhesions can sometimes form in the area of the knee joint. Adhesions are also conceivable as a complication.

In the first few days after implantation, the artificial knee joint and the affected area may still feel somewhat warm. This is not a cause for concern. Rejection reactions to artificial knee joints are very rare. Our doctors will be happy to inform you about the exact risks and complications that an artificial knee joint can entail as part of the treatment.

Tips for the period after implantation of an artificial knee joint

Physiotherapeutic exercises are required after implantation of an artificial knee joint and usually begin one day after surgery. The affected knee must remain in motion without being subjected to excessive stress. During the first few weeks, you may only put partial weight on the artificial knee joint. Full loading may cause the prosthesis to loosen prematurely. It is also necessary to wear support stockings for a certain period of time, which can prevent the formation of thrombosis.

In the beginning, it is advisable that you take only small steps. Carrying light loads is not a problem, as long as you distribute them properly. More tips for the time after implantation of an artificial knee joint:

short walks are not only allowed at the beginning, but strongly recommended
in the beginning you should sit on a wedge cushion
Hip joints must be higher than the knees
when showering or bathing, a non-slip base is recommended

You should refrain from driving for the first six weeks, at least as far as independent driving is concerned. As long as walking aids are still needed, independent driving could pose problems. Regular check-ups, during which the proper fit of the artificial knee joint is also checked, should always be attended. You should make sure you have good footwear to support a healthy gait.

An artificial knee joint does not mean that you have to do without sports. However, there are some sports that are not so good with a knee TEP. These include skiing and soccer, for example. There is a very high risk of injury in both sports. On the other hand, Nordic walking, swimming or even cycling are recommended. We would be happy to give you even more tips on what is possible with an artificial knee joint.

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