How long will my knee replacement last?
Knee replacements are now showing excellent implant survival with 95% of them still functioning well after 15 years. The weak link tends to be the polyethylene bearing surface that can wear out. Potentially if this were to happen then this component could be exchanged without changing the main components of the knee replacement. That is why it is important for your replacement to be reviewed regularly with x-rays, particularly after 10 years to look out for signs of wear.
How much will I be able to bend my knee?
This depends a lot on how stiff the knee has become prior to surgery. If the knee has a good range of motion before surgery then in all likelihood, you will achieve a good range after surgery. Typically this will be from 00 (straight) to about 1150 .
Are there any restrictions after a knee replacement?
In general there are no specific restrictions. One can be as active as one likes. Sporting activities are certainly possible but it would be recommended for these to be low impact. Sports such as golf, skiing and tennis (doubles) are fine.
What happens if the knee becomes loose or wears out?
Sometimes it is possible to exchange any worn components, other times if the implant has loosened then this needs to be re-done. This is certainly possible but often bigger implants using stems within the bony canal are necessary to fix the new implants in place. After any re-do the joint tends to become a bit stiffer.
content written by Johan Witt Hip othopaedic and trauma surgeon
