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Knee Surgery

Replaces the surfaces of the femur and tibia with artificial implants

When to consider a knee replacement?

Knee replacement can treat knee pain and stiffness in people with advanced arthritis or osteoarthritis that does not respond to nonsurgical treatment.

 

There are several types of conditions requiring knee surgery, and it is recommended to seek medical attention if you experience significant pain, inflammation, and damage to the knee joint due to conditions such as:

 

During your surgery, Dr. Benoit will replace the surfaces of both ends of the knee joint with artificial parts*.

 

*Components of the knee prosthesis:

 

  • A metal surface that covers the femur.
  • A metal surface that covers the shin.
  • A polyethylene between the two for optimal sliding.

¹ Dr. Benoit does not offer surgery to repair a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)

² Dr. Benoit does not offer surgery to repair a meniscal tear

Possible Conditions:

  • Severe osteoarthritis
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Complex knee fractures
  • Serious ligament injuries
  • Post-traumatic arthritis
  • Avascular necrosis
  • Bone tumors
  • Severe deformities
  • Torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)¹
  • Meniscal tear²
  • Chronic knee instability
  • Recurrent patellar instability
  • Patellofemoral syndrome
  • Osteochondritis dissecans
  • Femoroacetabular impingement syndrome
  • Complex regional pain syndrome(formerly called algodystrophy)

What happens during knee replacement surgery?

Consult our attached brochure to learn more about the typical procedure for knee replacement surgery.

 

The surgery replaces the surfaces of the femur and tibia with artificial implants. The goal of the procedure is to allow you to return to your daily activities and exercise with more comfort.

Total knee replacement, a major advancement in the field of orthopedic surgery, is transforming the lives of many individuals by providing an effective solution to debilitating knee problems. This complex surgical procedure aims to relieve pain, restore mobility and improve the quality of life of patients suffering from severe joint diseases, such as osteoarthritis.

 

During this procedure, the surgeon replaces the damaged surfaces of the knee with highly durable artificial components, allowing for gradual recovery and return to daily activities.

Important

Initially, Dr. Benoit may recommend other treatments such as medications for pain or inflammation, walking aids, joint injections, and physical therapy. If these measures do not relieve pain and stiffness, knee replacement surgery may be necessary to restore function and improve quality of life.

When your quality of life suffers due to knee pain, it may be time for knee replacement. Signs of reduced quality of life include: difficulty performing simple tasks such as walking, dressing, putting on shoes, going up and down stairs, getting restful sleep due to pain, getting up from sitting , as well as the inability to fully participate in the activities you enjoy.

On average, knee replacement surgeries last less than an hour. A double knee replacement may take longer. Complications during surgery could also prolong the duration of surgery. You may need imaging, such as an x-ray, immediately after the procedure and during recovery to check the success of your operation and the recovery of your new knee.

Replacement of both knees at the same time

Both left and right knees can be replaced in a single operation. This is called a bilateral knee replacement.

 

If you are having problems with both knees, Dr. Benoit may recommend this procedure if you are healthy and can tolerate the surgery and subsequent rehabilitation.

 

In Case of Emergency

Call 911 or go to the emergency room if you experience chest pain or shortness of breath.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)

What is a knee replacement?

The surgery replaces the surfaces of the femur and tibia with artificial implants. The goal of the procedure is to allow you to return to your daily activities and exercise with more comfort.

Who can benefit from a knee prosthesis?

Dr. Benoit may recommend a knee replacement if you experience significant pain, inflammation, and damage to your knee joint due to conditions such as:

  • Osteoarthritis (most common)
  • Arthritis
  • Osteonecrosis (avascular necrosis)

What happens during knee replacement surgery?

Knee replacements are performed in a surgery center. They are sometimes performed as outpatient surgery. Most often you will have to stay a night or two.

A typical, uncomplicated total knee replacement involves the following steps:

  • Once in the operating room, you will receive general (full body) or below-the-waist (epidural or spinal) anesthesia, depending on the recommendation of your anesthesiologist and orthopedic surgeon.
  • The surgeon will then position you in an appropriate position to perform the procedure. The surgical site will then be brushed with soap and coated with an antiseptic solution.
  • Incision and approach to the knee.
  • Surfacing and alignment of the femur and tibia
  • Different tests are carried out with temporary prostheses to make the best choice.
  • The definitive prostheses are then installed.
  • The knee is re-examined to ensure that it is functioning properly.
  • The fabric layers will be closed with stitches.
  • The outermost layer of skin is closed with surgical glue. No stitches or metal staples will need to be removed after your surgery.
  • You will be taken to the recovery room.
  • Dr. Benoit will let you know when it is safe for you to go home, which could be the same day, depending on your condition.

What are the risks of knee replacement surgery?

Most patients do well with knee replacement. As with any surgical procedure, there are certain risks during and after knee replacement surgery:

  • Bleeding
  • Infection
  • Blood clots in the legs or lungs
  • Injury to neighboring nerves
  • Fracture
  • Ongoing pain or stiffness
  • Noises
  • Loosening or wear of the prosthesis
  • Unrelieved joint pain (this may be temporary or permanent)

There may be other risks depending on your health.

Make an Appointment

We will contact you within 24 hours or Call +1 (514) 331 1400

Please note that a referral from your doctor is required for a consultation in the public system. Be aware that delays are longer in the public system given the current exceptional situation in the health network.

    Our Office

    370 – 5777 Boul. Gouin O. Montréal, Québec H4J 1E3

    +1 (514) 331-1400 
    ortho.cmndi@gmail.com

    Did you know that?

    In 1968, Dr. John Insall conducted the first total knee replacement surgery at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York, marking a major advance in orthopedics. ⁽¹⁾