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What is Total Knee Replacement (TKR) or Knee Arthroplasty

Who is an ideal candidate for this treatment?

Most candidates will be between 50 and 80 years old. The “ideal” candidate for a Total knee replacement (TKR) or knee arthroplasty isn’t defined by age, but by pain and its limitations on daily activities, work, or personal recreation. Ideal patients sometimes have knee deformity, joint damage/deformity, or a bone-on-bone knee joint caused by other conditions like Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid arthritis, or previous injury.

Get Back on Your Feet. Book your knee evaluation by calling
(817) 926-BONE (2663)

Do I need help? Possible Signs

  • Most candidates experience moderate to severe knee pain or stiffness that limits everyday activities
  • Pain, inflammation, and/or swelling continue even while resting, despite medication, and have no or minimal relief from conservative care or non-surgical options.
  • Difficulty bending or straightening the knee
  • Grinding, popping, or instability in the knee

Disclaimer
*Your orthopedic surgeon will evaluate your overall health, medical history, imaging studies, and lifestyle to determine whether knee replacement is needed or a more conservative approach is required. They will also help you determine whether total or partial knee replacement is appropriate.

What to expect before surgery?

  • Compassionate Care
  • Thorough Examination & Personalized Treatment Plan
  • Patient’s Goals Discussed & Straight Answers to Difficult Questions
  • Support You Can Count On
Non-Surgical options
  • Physical therapy, Activity modification, and/or Weight management/loss
  • Anti-inflammatory medications
  • Corticosteroid or Hyaluronic acid injections

Disclaimer
*Whenever appropriate, Lone Star Orthopaedic and Spine will always explore conservative, non-surgical treatments as first options to relieve pain and improve function before considering surgical intervention.

Definition of Treatments: What is it? What is done?

  • The Incision & Length of Surgery
    Total knee replacement (also called knee arthroplasty) is a 1–2 hour surgical procedure with a traditional larger incision.
  • Cartilage and Bone Removal
    The surgeon removes the damaged cartilage surfaces at the ends of the femur (thigh bone) and tibia (shin bone) with a small amount of underlying bone and a small amount of bone from the surfaces of the knee joint.
  • Hardware
    Large areas of removed cartilage and bone are then replaced with medical-grade metal and plastic. A full metal “cradle” for the femur, a metal plate for the tibia. The undersurface of the kneecap (patella) might be cut and resurfaced with a plastic button. and a heavy-duty plastic insert. A plastic button is also often attached to the back of the kneecap.
  • Alignment
    Total- Straightens bow-legs, knock-knees, or other knee deformities. The goal of the surgery is to create a smooth, functional joint that relieves pain and restores mobility.

FAQs

Mobility

In TKR, may feel more mechanical at first, but most patients experience significant improvement in mobility and return to normal walking and activities within 6 to 12 weeks. High-impact activities such as running or jumping may be discouraged to protect the longevity of the implant; however, patients can usually return to low-impact activities without pain once healing is complete.

Risk of Recurrence

Technically, no, for those who have had total knee replacement, because the damaged joint surfaces are replaced with artificial components. Arthritis does not return, but knee replacements have a lifespan of typically 15-20 years, potentially requiring a “revision” surgery

Cosmetic Consideration

For total knee replacements, surgeons typically aim to place the 6-10 inch incision on the front of the knee in a way that allows it to heal as discreetly as possible. A scar will remain but will fade significantly over time and become less noticeable with proper healing and scar care

Recovery Timeline

  • Same Day / Next Day: Standing and walking with a walker or crutches, and physical therapy can begin.
  • Weeks 1–3: Focus on wound healing and regaining basic range of motion.
  • 6-12 Weeks: Transitioning off assistive devices; driving is often permitted once you are off narcotic pain meds.
  • 3–6 Months: Significant reduction in swelling; return to most daily activities. In one year, full recovery and maximum strength is typical.

Disclaimer:
*Physical therapy is a critical part of recovery and helps restore strength, flexibility, and motion.

Considerations/Risks

Typical
  • Infection & Blood Clots
  • Swelling & Bruising: Can last for several weeks.
  • Mild discomfort and Stiffness: Requires diligent Physical Therapy (PT) to overcome.
  • Standard implant wear (15-20 year typical lifetime)
Atypical
  • Nerve or blood vessel injury
  • Limited range of motion requiring additional treatment
  • Allergic reaction to implant materials
  • Need for revision surgery in the distant future

Post Surgery Care & Restrictions

Keep moving with regular physical therapy exercises. Icing, elevate, and take prescribed medications to control swelling and pain in the first month. Avoid high-impact sports or activities that stress the knee and could cause complications.

Why Choose Lone Star?

  • Board-Certified Orthopaedic Surgeons with Exceptional Expertise
  • Advanced Surgical Techniques and Technology
  • Reputation for Patient-Centered Care and Results
  • Collaborative Care Team Approach

Book Your Appointment Today

Are you missing out on the moments that matter? Call (817) 926-BONE (2663) and explore your options with our orthopaedic specialists. We can help you walk again without pain.

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