Joint replacement surgery is a safe and effective procedure designed to relieve pain, correct leg deformity, and help you resume normal activities. If you’re dealing with chronic knee pain, stiffness, and inflammation, and have found that other treatments simply aren’t cutting it, a knee cap replacement might be an option to consider. Let’s dive into what this entails!
What is Knee Cap Replacement?
Knee cap replacement, technically referred to as patellofemoral replacement, involves addressing only the kneecap (patella) and the groove in the thighbone (femur) where it glides. It’s important to understand the process. During a knee cap replacement, the surgeon removes damaged cartilage and a small amount of bone from the patellofemoral compartment of your knee using specialized tools. Then, a plastic button is used to resurface the back of the patella, aligning with a thin metal component that resurfaces the trochlear groove at the end of the femur. These components are typically secured to the bone with cement.
Total Knee Replacement vs. Knee Cap Replacement
A total knee replacement, also known as total knee arthroplasty, involves removing the arthritic parts of the bones at the knee joint and replacing them with artificial parts. Sometimes the under-surface of the patella is resurfaced and a polymer plastic implant is attached to it. The components of a total knee replacement are the femoral component, tibial component, and patellar button. With a total knee replacement, the top of the tibia and lower end of the femur are replaced.
When is a Knee Cap Replacement Necessary?
Knee cap replacement becomes a viable option when you experience:
- Severe pain and stiffness affecting daily activities and quality of life
- Moderate-to-severe pain even at rest
- Chronic knee inflammation and swelling
- Knee deformity
- Failure to respond to other treatments
The goal of a knee cap replacement is to restore function and reduce pain, allowing patients to live more comfortably and maintain as much independence as possible.
What Happens During the Procedure?
Whether you opt for general anesthesia, where you’re asleep, or a local anesthetic in your spine, which numbs you from the waist down, here’s a breakdown of what to expect during a total knee cap replacement:
- The surgeon makes a cut down the front of your knee and moves your kneecap to the side to access the knee joint.
- They cut away the damaged ends of your shin bone and thigh bone.
- New parts are fitted over the ends of both bones to create the new joint. The parts are usually made of metal and plastic.
- The kneecap is put back into place.
- The surgeon closes the cut on your knee using stitches or clips and covers it with a dressing and bandage.
What to Expect After Surgery
After surgery, you’ll be closely monitored as you recover from anesthesia. It’s normal to experience pain, but your healthcare team will work to manage it, which will help you recover faster.
Physical Therapy and Recovery
Physical therapy is a crucial part of recovery after a knee cap replacement. A physical therapist can guide you through the process. Pre-operative programs include:
- Increasing knee/hip flexibility and strength
- Preparing for the use of assistive devices and transfer techniques
- Assisting in preparing your home and obtaining adapted devices as needed
- Answering questions about post-surgical issues i.e., scar management, precautions, expectations, concerns, etc
Physical therapy following a total knee cap replacement is designed to increase knee ROM, improve strength, decrease pain, and improve function.
Minimally Invasive Options
Minimally invasive total knee cap replacement uses a smaller incision than a traditional knee replacement, potentially leading to less pain and a quicker recovery.
I hope this overview has provided you with a clearer understanding of knee cap replacement!