Total knee arthroplasty and rehabilitation

Abstract

Arthroplasty is the reconstruction of the joint to relieve pain, increase range of motion and provide stabilization in any joint. The main goals of total knee arthroplasty are to relieve pain, improve function, improve quality of life, create a long-lasting artificial joint, and prevent or reduce surgical complications. Joint infection, sepsis or systemic infections, neuropathic arthropathy, painful stiff knee fusion due to complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), genu recurvatum due to neuromuscular weakness, painless and well-functioning knee arthrodesis are absolute contraindications to total knee arthroplasty. In addition, the patient should be monitored for circulation, sensation and infections during the acute period (1-5 days). An appropriate DVT prophylaxis should be given. There is evidence that long-term physical deficiencies persist after arthroplasty. Since decreased muscle strength, decreased flexibility, abnormalities in walking, and deficits in postural stability can be detected, it is recommended to continue exercise programs for at least 1 year.