Total Knee Replacement

In the Rheinfelden Hospital there is more than 25 years of experience in total knee replacement.

There were enormous improvements in knee surgery especially in the recent years. The most important is the development of so called surface-replacements in knees. Only a thin layer of the destructed cartilage and bone is removed from the joint surface and is replaced by the artificial surface of the prosthesis forming the new joint.

This type of operation requires a maximum of precision guaranteed by the experience of the surgeon, precise cutting guides and instruments.

Different types of knee prostheses are available. If the destruction of the cartilage is only on one side, medial or lateral, a partial knee joint replacement by a so called unicompartimental prosthesis can be performed. This guarantees quicker reconvalescense and a better range of motion of the knee joint. This method allows for a small minimalinvasive incision.

Elderly people often need to have the complete knee joint replaced. A full replacement includes a correction of the knee axis. Knee replacement usually requires a 2 week hospital stay. Additional rehabilitation of up to 4 weeks can be organized at a nearby rehabilitation clinic. For 6 weeks the use of crutches is recommended.

If a patient suffers from a bilateral hip or knee arthritis and requires surgery on both legs, we recommend a highly effective and blood-saving surgery of both joints simultaneously.