What happens if the knee replacement is too big?

If the replaced femoral component is too large, the outer edges hang over the femur and irritate tissue. If the implanted femoral component is larger than the patient's natural femur, it can result in the patient struggling to regain acceptable flexion and complain of “tightness” when they try to bend their knee.

Can a knee implant be too big?

Studies have shown that an implant being too large by just 3 millimeters can double the risk of having pain. A lot of patients with painful total knee replacements have some mal-rotation of their implants and some have inappropriate tensioning of their ligaments by the implant leading to a "wobbly" knee.

Can they put the wrong size knee replacement?

It is possible for an orthopedic surgeon to implant the wrong size knee replacement device and not notice this error on follow up evaluations, but that would be a very unusual situation.

Are there different sizes of knee replacements?

One size does not fit all during total knee replacement surgery. Knee implants come in different sizes to accommodate various body sizes, types and needs. Several manufacturers make joint implants. Your knee replacement surgeon will select the implant that best fits your needs.

What is the most commonly reported problem after knee replacement surgery?

Knee Stiffness

One of the most common problems people experience after knee replacement is a stiff knee joint. Often these symptoms can cause difficulty with normal activities including going down stairs, sitting in a chair, or getting out of a car.

Am I Too Heavy for Hip or Knee Replacement Surgery (elevated BMI)?

What weight is too obese for knee replacement?

The chances of a knee replacement are 8 times higher for patients a BMI greater than 30 and 28 times higher for patients with a BMI over 35.

Can you walk too much after knee replacement surgery?

It is important to gradually increase your out-of-home activity during the first few weeks after surgery. If you do too much activity, your knee may become more swollen and painful.

Does a knee replacement add weight to your body?

Most patients actually gain weight following joint replacement surgery. Of 106 adults who had knee replacements, two-thirds gained an average 14 pounds within two years after the operation, according to a 2010 study at the University of Delaware.

How do I know if something is wrong with my knee replacement?

What are the signs of knee replacement failure? The most common symptoms of a failed knee implant are pain, decrease in joint function, knee instability, and swelling or stiffness in the knee joint.

Is there a weight limit for knee replacement surgery?

Having a BMI of 30 or greater may prevent a surgeon from scheduling surgery. However, there is no hard and fast rule. If you fall into the “overweight” category, losing extra weight is always recommended, but may not be required by your healthcare provider.

How many times can a knee replacement revision be done?

In 85% to 90% of people who have a total knee replacement, the knee implants used will last about 15 to 20 years. This means that some patients who have a knee replacement at a younger age may eventually need a second operation to clean the bone surfaces and refixate the implants.

Why does my total knee replacement still hurt?

A: Recovery from surgery can take several months, so it's not unusual to still have soreness in the knee that was replaced. As the intensity of rehabilitation exercises increases, more strain is put on the muscles and joints that have not been used in a period of time.

What is the most serious complication of a knee joint replacement?

Blood clots are one of the most significant risks of knee replacement surgery. If surgery damages a blood vessel or the person does not move for several days after the procedure, blood flow can slow, and a blood clot may form. A blood clot in one of the deep veins in the legs is called deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

Why does my knee buckle after total knee replacement?

The buckling of the knee after the replacement is instability that may result from preoperative, operative, or postoperative factors. Frequently, instability after total knee replacement requires revision surgery to address the cause of instability and prevent reoccurrence.

When will my knee replacement feel normal?

Six months after your knee replacement

Usually by the 6 month mark, you're about 90% recovered. 30 out of 100 patients at 6 months will say “My knee feels pretty normal like the other side,” while the other 70 will say, “It's still not quite a normal knee but it's substantially better than what I had before.”

Is second knee replacement easier?

What's worse than having to go through another surgery, is that the second surgery is much harder than the first. The goal of the second knee replacement surgery is the same as the first – to relieve pain and improve function.

How much should you walk after knee replacement?

Your orthopaedic surgeon and physical therapist may recommend that you exercise for 20 to 30 minutes daily, or even 2 to 3 times daily; and walk for 30 minutes, 2 to 3 times daily during your early recovery.

Why is my knee still swollen 9 months after surgery?

As they take time to heal, there may be excess fluid accumulation in the tissue as a part of the inflammatory chain leading to healing. The swelling persists even after the skin incision heals as the tissues in the body take a long time to get back to their condition before the surgery.

Why do my thighs hurt after knee replacement?

If you recently had a total knee replacement, you're probably experiencing some pain, including pain at the front of your thigh. The quadriceps tendon, which is located above the kneecap, is typically cut and sutured back together during surgery.

Can you kneel with artificial knees?

According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, kneeling is not harmful to your knee after a total knee replacement, although it may be uncomfortable.

Why do people gain weight after total knee replacement?

Researchers think there are two possible explanations to account for the weight gain. Patients who are overweight or obese may lose significant weight in advance of the surgery as recommended by their doctor. Then after the operation, they return to their old eating patterns and put the weight back on.

What happens if you fall on your knee after a knee replacement?

If you fall on your knee soon after surgery when your joint replacement is still healing, you may damage the prosthetic implant. In that case, you might end up needing revision surgery. Until your balance, flexibility and strength are improved, use your cane, crutches or walker and be extra careful when walking.

How long after total knee replacement can you walk without a cane?

Usually, about three weeks after the surgery, you'll be able to walk without crutches for about 10 minutes. Your physical therapist will push you to add more to your regimen. Generally, it takes about a year for everything to settle, the knee to regain its strength, and all normal activities to become possible again.

Can I sleep on my side after knee replacement?

Sleeping on Your Side

Sleeping on the side can be painful because the leg is not straight enough. However, gradually, you can start sleeping on your side as the knee heals. But avoid sleeping on the operative side at all costs, as it puts a lot of pressure on the surgery site.

What happens if you don't exercise after knee replacement?

Decreased blood flow to the area can negatively affect healing at the surgical site. Muscles can weaken and atrophy if they go too long without use. Not learning or relearning proper movement can put stress on the knees.