Total Knee Replacement

What Is Total Knee Replacement?

Total knee replacement—also known as knee arthroplasty—is a surgical procedure in which damaged cartilage and bone in the knee joint are replaced with metal and plastic components. This procedure is designed to relieve pain, restore function, and improve quality of life for individuals with severe knee arthritis or joint degeneration.

At Orthopaedic Associates of Wisconsin, our highly experienced surgeons use advanced techniques, including minimally invasive and robotic-assisted options, to provide precise and effective care with faster recovery times.

When Is Total Knee Replacement Recommended?

You may be a candidate for knee replacement if you have:

• Chronic knee pain that limits daily activities

• Pain that persists at rest or during the night

• Swelling or stiffness that does not improve with medication or therapy

• Joint deformity or bowing of the leg

• Decreased quality of life due to joint deterioration

Common Conditions Leading to Knee Replacement

• Osteoarthritis (bone-on-bone joint wear)

• Rheumatoid arthritis

• Post-traumatic arthritis (from previous injury)

• Failed previous knee surgeries

• Degenerative joint disease

What to Expect During Surgery

Knee replacement surgery typically takes 1–2 hours and is performed under spinal or general anesthesia. The surgeon removes damaged cartilage and bone and replaces them with a prosthetic joint. Most procedures now use muscle-sparing techniques that reduce pain and shorten recovery.

Patients often go home the same day or after an overnight stay, depending on overall health and the case’s complexity.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovery from total knee replacement includes a structured rehabilitation plan:

• Most patients begin walking with assistance on the day of surgery

• Physical therapy begins shortly after to restore strength and mobility

• Many return to daily activities within 6–12 weeks

• Full recovery can take several months, depending on activity level and individual factors

Our team will guide you through each stage of recovery and tailor your care to your goals.

Benefits of Total Knee Replacement

• Significant reduction or elimination of knee pain

• Improved ability to walk, climb stairs, and perform daily tasks

• Better joint alignment and stability

• Long-lasting results—many implants last 15–20+ years

• Increased independence and quality of life

Why Choose Orthopaedic Associates of Wisconsin?

• Board-certified orthopedic surgeons with decades of experience

• Advanced surgical options, including robotic-assisted knee replacement

• Personalized treatment plans and pre-operative education

• On-site imaging, physical therapy, and Surgery Center for seamless care