Knee Joint Replacement |
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DESCRIPTION
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In knee joint replacement (also called total knee replacement), the surgeon removes a badly damaged knee joint and installs an artificial one. Medically, the new joint is known as a prosthesis (prahs-THEE-sis), an artificial or man-made device made of metal or a mixture of metal and plastic. The surgery is performed to relieve pain and restore movement in people who have severe osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis of the knee, or disabling injuries to this important joint. Most knee replacements are totally successful. If you have this operation, allow at least 3 to 5 months to recover your strength and energy.
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CARE
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Immediately If... You fall and injure the knee. You suddenly have trouble breathing. Your leg or toes feel numb, tingly, or cool to the touch, or turn pale or blue.
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COMPLICATIONS
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s Without treatment, the pain and stiffness may continue and get worse.
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