Total Knee Surgery
In total knee replacement, up to an 8" incision is made, and the knee cap is dislocated, exposing the surfaces of the knee. Up to 1/2" of bone is removed from the femur and the tibia to accommodate the knee implant. After surgery, most patients stay in the hospital for several days and follow up with extensive physical therapy. The long-term result is usually excellent, but it can take many months for the patient to fully regain the function of their new knee joint (Figure 2).
