Knee Arthroplasty
Knee arthroplasty, or knee replacement surgery, is a highly effective treatment for relieving pain and restoring function in a knee that has been severely damaged by arthritis or injury. It involves replacing the worn or damaged joint surfaces with artificial components, allowing patients to return to a more active lifestyle with less pain. Dr. Seiter specializes in advanced knee arthroplasty techniques that are tailored to each patient’s individual needs and can help to improve mobility, range of motion, and overall quality of life.
Types of Knee Arthroplasty Procedures
Knee arthroplasty may include any of the following approaches:
Total Knee Arthroplasty (Total Knee Replacement)
Total knee replacement is the most common form of knee arthroplasty. This procedure involves resurfacing the entire knee joint by replacing the damaged ends of the femur (thigh bone), tibia (shin bone), and sometimes the patella (kneecap) with prosthetic components. Total knee replacement may be recommended for patients with widespread arthritis or joint degeneration, as it offers significant pain relief and improved joint function.
Partial (Unicompartmental) Knee Replacement
Partial knee replacement, also called unicompartmental knee arthroplasty, involves replacing only the damaged compartment of the knee—either the medial, lateral, or patellofemoral compartment—while preserving the healthy cartilage and bone. Ideal for patients with arthritis limited to one part of the knee, this procedure allows for a quicker recovery and more natural knee function compared to total knee replacement.
Patellofemoral Joint Replacement
This type of knee arthroplasty targets only the kneecap and the groove it glides in (the patellofemoral compartment). It’s appropriate for patients with arthritis confined to this part of the knee. Patellofemoral joint replacement can help alleviate pain and restore movement without having to replace the entire knee joint.
Candidates for Knee Arthroplasty
You may be a candidate for knee arthroplasty if you experience:
- Persistent knee pain that interferes with daily activities such as walking, climbing stairs, or standing
- Pain that worsens with movement or persists during rest
- Stiffness or reduced range of motion in the knee
- Joint damage from osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or prior injury
- Swelling, instability, or a grinding sensation in the joint
- Limited relief from non-surgical treatments such as medication, physical therapy, or injections
Dr. Seiter will perform a comprehensive evaluation, including physical examination and imaging studies, to determine the best treatment plan for your condition.
Recovery After Knee Arthroplasty
Recovery from knee replacement surgery involves rest, physical therapy, and a gradual return to daily activities. Most patients are able to walk with assistance (such as a walker or crutches) within 24 hours of surgery. A tailored physical therapy program will begin shortly after surgery to help restore strength, flexibility, and balance.
Patients typically return to light activities within 4 to 6 weeks and continue improving for several months. A full return to most normal activities—including low-impact exercises like walking, biking, or swimming—can often be achieved within 3 to 6 months. Dr. Seiter and his team will guide you through every stage of recovery to support your healing and long-term joint health.