What is knee replacement surgery?

WHAT IS KNEE REPLACEMENT SURGERY? WHEN IS ROBOTIC SURGERY USED?

Do you experience persistent knee pain, swelling, limited movement, or difficulty performing daily activities? These are often the first signs of advanced joint damage or knee osteoarthritis. Knee replacement surgery is a safe and effective method used to correct damage caused by joint wear, osteoarthritis, or trauma. Prof. Dr. Nurullah Ermiş emphasizes that early evaluation significantly facilitates treatment in knee replacement procedures.

Knee replacement is generally performed in patients with advanced osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, traumatic joint damage, or severe loss of knee function after previous surgical interventions. Symptoms include persistent knee pain, difficulty climbing stairs, loss of strength in the legs, and joint stiffness. If these symptoms are present, it is important to consult an orthopedic specialist without delay.

Knee replacement surgery is planned according to the patient’s age, general health condition, and the degree of damage in the knee. During surgery, worn or damaged joint surfaces are removed and replaced with an artificial joint (prosthesis) made of metal, ceramic, or polyethylene materials. Thanks to modern surgical techniques and robotic-assisted methods, operations are performed with high success rates. After surgery, mobility of the knee is improved through physical therapy, and patients can safely return to their daily activities.

Knee replacement surgery is generally preferred in the following situations:

• Advanced osteoarthritis or degeneration with pain and loss of movement • Severe functional loss in rheumatoid arthritis or other joint diseases • Chronic knee pain unresponsive to previous treatments • Improper knee function after traumatic joint damage

Robotic knee replacement is more precise and safer compared to traditional methods. In conventional knee replacement surgery, the surgeon performs bone cuts using manual instruments and guides, whereas in robotic systems, the patient’s bones are modeled in 3D before surgery and the implant position is planned with millimetric precision in a computer environment. During the operation, the robot automatically prevents deviations beyond the planned boundaries and ensures perfect alignment of the leg axis, resulting in much safer and more accurate implant placement and knee function.

With early evaluation, modern surgical techniques, and proper rehabilitation, most patients can lead a pain-free and active life. Regular check-ups, an appropriate treatment plan, and conscious physical therapy help you maintain your knee health safely.