b'ABOUT A TOTAL KNEE REPLACEMENTWhat is a Knee Replacement? A knee replacement (also known as a knee arthroplasty) is a complete resurfacing of the bones and cartilage of your knee.The four steps of a knee replacement include:o Preparing the bone Damaged cartilage surfaces at the end of the femur and tibia are removed along with any underlying bone spurs. oPositioning the metal implants Metal components replace bone and cartilage and recreate the surface of the joint. Metal parts may be cemented into the bone. oResurfacing the patella The patella is cut and resurfaced with a plastic button.oInserting a spacer A medical-grade plastic spacer is inserted between the metal components to create a smooth gliding surface. Is a Knee Replacement Right for Me? More than 90% of people who have a total knee replacement surgery experience a dramatic reduction of knee pain and a significant improvement performing common activities of daily living. Every knee replacement implant begins to wear in its plastic spacer; this process can be sped up by excessive activity or body weight. This can cause pain or the joint to loosen over time. Many doctors advice against high-impact activities such as running, jogging, or jumping.Realistic activities include walking, swimming, golf, driving, light hiking, biking, ballroom dancing, and other low-impact sports. Monadnock Community Hospital Joint Replacement Program| TKA Tab 11'