Knee Replacement
Total or partial knee replacement resurfaces damaged joint surfaces with metal and plastic components — one of the most successful operations in modern medicine.
Adults with severe knee arthritis pain that limits daily activities and hasn't responded to non-surgical care.
Surgery takes 1–2 hours under regional or general anesthesia. Hospital stay of 0–2 days; many programs offer outpatient TKR for healthy candidates.
Walking with assistance day one. Cane or walker for 2–6 weeks. Most patients return to normal activities by 3 months.
$30,000–$50,000 total charges; Medicare and most insurance cover the majority when medically necessary.
Questions to ask your doctor
- How many knee replacements do you perform per year?
- Am I a candidate for partial (unicompartmental) replacement?
- Do you use robotic-assisted navigation?
- What is your infection and revision rate?
- Will I need physical therapy in-home or at a facility?
Frequently asked
Modern implants last 20+ years in about 90% of patients.
Kneeling is often uncomfortable even years later, though it's not medically restricted.
Partial replaces only the damaged compartment — faster recovery but requires healthy remaining cartilage.
Find a board-certified orthopedic surgery provider in your area.
Related procedures
General information only — not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for your specific situation.