Knee Replacement
The knee is the single largest joint in your entire body. A problem with your knees could make it painful and even impossible to perform many everyday tasks.
More than 700,000 knee replacements are performed each year in the United States, and our surgeons here at Palm Beach Gardens are among some of the most skilled physicians offering the procedure.
How it works
Surgeons will remove the damaged cartilage and bone, and replace them with metal and plastic implants designed to recreate the surface of the joint. These parts may be cemented or "press-fit" into the bone. In some cases, the kneecap will then be resurfaced
and the area under the kneecap is cut and resurfaced with a plastic button. Your surgeon will then insert a plastic spacer between the metal pieces to create a smooth gliding surface.
What to expect
You will most likely be under anesthesia for a knee replacement, which usually takes about one or two hours. After surgery, you will be in the hospital for a few days. The day after surgery, you will be assisted with getting up and moving right away.
You will receive pain medications and a physical therapist will work with you on specific exercises to regain your strength and range of motion.
Your hospital bed may also be equipped with a special device to slowly move your knee while you are in bed and help reduce swelling. The device, called a continuous passive motion (CPM) exercise machine, elevates your leg and improves blood circulation.
