What is the primary definition of total knee arthroplasty?

Total knee arthroplasty refers to the surgical procedure commonly known as knee replacement. This procedure involves replacing damaged or worn components of the knee joint with artificial materials, typically made of metal and plastic. The primary goal of total knee arthroplasty is to relieve pain and restore function in individuals suffering from severe knee conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or post-traumatic arthritis.

The significance of total knee arthroplasty lies in its ability to improve patients' quality of life by alleviating pain and increasing mobility. The recovery process typically includes rehabilitation to regain strength and function, emphasizing the importance of post-operative care, including physical therapy, rather than focusing solely on exercises or interventions without surgical options.

Understanding total knee arthroplasty as a knee replacement helps clarify the context of knee treatments, as it is a definitive surgical solution compared to non-surgical options like strengthening exercises or physical therapy interventions, which may not address the underlying structural issues in advanced arthritis or joint degeneration.