Kinematic Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA) surgery is newer way to perform TKA surgery. The origins of TKA as we understand it today date back to the 1970’s, and since that time surgeons have performed the procedure with the goal of achieving perfect mechanical alignment, where a perfectly straight knee is created. The problem is that less than 15% of the population has perfect, mechanically aligned knee. When a TKA is performed with Mechanical Alignment, the knee may still feel unnatural, painful and tight. Kinematically Aligned knees reproduce a more natural alignment by removing only the amount of bone which is being replaced by the knee implant. This creates a TKA which moves easier and feels better. Patient outcomes are better and Forgotten Knee Scores (percentage of people who forget they have a knee replacement) are significantly better with Kinematic Alignment TKA when compared to Mechanical Alignment TKA.
What Happens During My Consultation?
During your initial consultation for bilateral TKA surgery at Utah Orthopaedics, you will meet with one of our highly-skilled orthopedic surgeons who draw from years of experience in orthopedics, sports medicine, physical therapy, and more. Depending on your medical history, current health, and the goals needed to achieve the full, pain-free function of the knees, your consultation will consist of an orthopedic examination, weightbearing X-rays, and a personal discussion about your knee replacement options. Patients may also undergo preparatory testing that can involve a medical evaluation, blood samples, and urine samples. During your consultation, your surgeon will spend time getting to know more about you and your health to develop a personalized treatment plan.
How Do I Prepare for My Knee Arthroplasty?
Preparing ahead of time for your bilateral knee arthroplasty can lead to a complication-free procedure and recovery. Before showing up to your appointment, we recommend patients commit to the following at least several weeks before their procedure:
- Consult with your primary doctor about temporarily stopping prescription medications that may interfere with the procedure.
- Avoid alcohol.
- Quit smoking at least six weeks before your procedure.
- Arrange transportation with a loved one to and from your procedure.
- Prepare your home for ease and mobility during your recovery period.
- Identify a loyal caretaker who can help support you during your recovery period.
Recovery After TKA Surgery
Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA) is performed as an outpatient procedure for most patients. In fact, Medicare now considers TKA as an outpatient procedure. Some patients with special medical and orthopaedic concerns may still occasionally require admission to the hospital.
TKA surgery can be performed in about an hour with either General or Spinal Anesthesia. A local anesthetic mixture is also introduced around the knee at the time of surgery, and most patients come out of surgery with little to no pain for the first 24 hours. After this time pain medications are utilized for a short period of time. Many patients require 20 pain pills or less.
Patients are able to walk with a walker or crutches immediately following surgery. Patients are also able to negotiate stairs immediately following surgery. Most patients are able to wean from the walker 1-2 weeks after surgery. After your procedure, you may experience pain and swelling in the legs. This will make it difficult for you to stand or walk for up to six weeks. However, after this time, the pain will slowly subside, and you can begin to focus on walking without any assistive devices.Recovery after a TKA surgery can be a challenge. Historically, patients with Mechanical Alignment surgery were able to find their way back to full health within a 13-week period. Kinematic Alignment TKA patients are experiencing significantly reduced recovery times with less pain and better function. Following your surgeon and physical therapist’s instructions during recovery will play a huge role in how quickly and effectively you recover.
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