What will happen after 15-20 years post-knee replacement?

Doctor's Answers 1

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Dr Henry Chan

Orthopaedic Surgeon

This is a conservative estimation, after 15-20 years or even up to 30 years, it can be working perfectly. Some might have no pain or no symptoms and are absolutely healthy. If unfortunately the knee replacement reaches the end of its lifespan, you can change it. Americans are more advanced, they do a lot more than us in learning how to tackle these problems, thus I learn all their special techniques to do revision surgery. If after 15-20 years you reach the end of the expected lifespan, you can still change it. Also if you take good care and there is no pain or swelling, then there’s absolutely no need to go for it.

Similar Questions

Post-Total knee replacement, how to work on gait, is it alignment issue?

Knee pain does not occur after one day. Some people learn the wrong gait and feel like the wrong gait is normal. After surgery, they must learn the correct ways. Therapists will come in to teach them to walk properly and re-strengthen the muscle. When I see these patients walk in my clinic normally, I will sometimes not know they have done a TKR. The whole purpose of knee replacement is to restore the mechanics of walking and quality of life.

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Answered By

Dr Henry Chan

Orthopaedic Surgeon

After getting a knee replacement, can I continue physical activities such as rock climbing, and what activities should I avoid?

Hi there, The general rule of advice should be to ask your surgeon as, depending on the type of implant you have in the knee, there maybe certain restrictions on your activities. That said, as a general rule, it is probably best to avoid/limit high impact activities such as distance running or contact sports. for most people, non-impact sports, gym-based and light aerobic activities will be best. Swimming is an excellent way of keeping fit without over-stressing the knees, as is cycling and cross training.

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Answered By

Dr Dinesh Sirisena

Sport Medicine

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