Knee replacements- How long do they last?
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How Long Will My Knee Replacement Last?
Knee replacement surgery is quickly becoming one of the most common orthopaedic procedures being performed in the United States. As a clinician, I am often asked by patients, how long will my knee replacement last? Most people will get 15-20 years out of their knee replacement, but there are other people who only get 5-10 years. Why is this? This article will try to discuss the various factors that will affect the longevity of knee replacements.
There are many factors that will influence how long a knee replacement will last. Various patients will react differently after surgery. The technology involved in knee replacement surgery continues to advance each year.
- Controlling your weight is probably the most important factor each patient can do. The heavier a patient is, the faster the implant will wear or loosen after surgery.
- Age and overall health can affect the bone density/quality under the implant. This will affect the durability of a knee replacement as well.
- Activity level after surgery is another key factor to preserving your knee replacement. Activities that involve pounding and twisting can cause abnormal wear and tear.
- Physical Therapy is another factor which can improve your outcome. Your physical therapist will give you a personalized selections of exercises. These are designed to build the supporting muscles around the knee joint. It is very important to finish all of your physical therapy after the surgery. It is also important to continue to do your exercises for your home program.
Image of Knee Replacement.
Knee Replacement Revision
It is important to understand that knee replacements sometimes need to be replaced. Early failure is very rare, but one risk factor is an early infection. Other risk factors that may lead to an infection include the following:
- High BMI (Body Mass Index).
- Poor nutrition.
- Uncontrolled Diabetes.
Please read this article on the Best Exercises after a Knee Replacement.
Sometimes a revision may be needed down the line after a knee replacement. This may involve just changing out the plastic discs between the metal implants. Other times, it may involve changing the entire implant. This is why you should try to get the most time out of your original knee replacement. Your age when you have a replacement is a factor for possibly having a revision. Some things patients can do to improve the longevity of their new artificial joint include the following:
- Avoiding high impact, risky sports.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Maintain good muscular strength of the quad and hamstrings. The stronger your muscles are can take the pressure off of the knee joint.
You should also be aware of marketing strategies from implant companies. Some tend to promise longer durability than other implant companies. All reputable implant companies use high-quality polymers and metals in their designs. To learn more about revisions, please read this ARTICLE.
ASAP Fracture Care
JOI Physicians and JOI Rehab now offer Telemedicine or Virtual Visits. To schedule an appointment for physical therapy at JOI Rehab, please call 904-858-7045.
JOI Rehab is now offering Direct Access to Physical Therapy.
The quality of the surgeon performing the procedure is another important factor to consider. The experts at Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute can help. We can guide you through these very complicated issues to find the best solution for you. To schedule an appointment, click below or call (904)JOI-2000.