Knee replacement surgery

Is knee pain and stiffness holding you back in life, turning your daily activities into challenges and depriving you of the pleasures of your leisure activities?

Have you lost your ability to work or your efficiency at work?

Knee arthroplasty could offer an excellent solution.

Daily tasks such as sitting, standing up, climbing stairs, or standing for long periods can cause discomfort and lead to pain. If the pain persists, it may indicate the need for a professional evaluation.

At the Hanche Genou Clinic, we understand your struggle and are committed to providing a solution. Our orthopedic surgeons specialize in knee replacement procedures to relieve pain and restore freedom of movement. Let us help you rediscover life without knee pain.

You can witness our patient’s quick recovery and ability to walk shortly after right knee replacement surgery.

DO YOU HAVE SEVERE OSTEOARTHRITIS OF THE KNEE?

Don’t hesitate to consult our experts.

Fast access to surgery, optimized recovery, high success rate.

ANATOMY OF THE KNEE JOINT

The knee joint is a complex hinge that connects the thigh bone (femur) to the shin bone (tibia), with the kneecap (patella) at the front to protect and facilitate movement. It is supported by tendons and ligaments for stability, while cartilage covers the ends of the bones and the back of the kneecap to allow smooth motion. Enclosed in a membrane, the joint releases a lubricating fluid that minimizes wear and tear. This intricate structure allows for essential movements such as bending, extending, and slight rotation—necessary for everyday activities like walking, running, and jumping.

WHAT IS KNEE REPLACEMENT?

Knee replacement, or knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to relieve pain and restore function in severely diseased knee joints. During the procedure, the surgeon removes the damaged bone and cartilage from the surface of the knee joint and replaces them with an artificial joint made of metal and plastic components. The artificial joint is designed to replicate the movement and function of a healthy, natural knee. This prevents the bones from rubbing against each other, which is the main cause of pain and stiffness associated with degenerative knee conditions.

GET EXPERT ADVICE

If you are considering knee arthroplasty, we encourage you to contact us to learn more about our doctors’ expertise and how they can help you regain your mobility.

WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM KNEE REPLACEMENT?

Individuals experiencing significant pain, inflammation, stiffness, and mobility issues in the knee may greatly benefit from knee replacement. This procedure is especially helpful for those who have not found relief through conservative treatments such as medication, physiotherapy, or lifestyle modifications.

These individuals may suffer from conditions such as:

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis involves the breakdown of cartilage in the knee joint, leading to bone-on-bone friction, pain, and reduced mobility, primarily affecting middle-aged and older adults.

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Rheumatoid arthritis

An autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the synovial membrane of the knee, causing inflammation, joint damage, and discomfort. It can occur in younger individuals and is characterized by systemic inflammation.

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Post-traumatic arthritis

Occurring as a result of knee injuries such as fractures or ligament tears, this condition disrupts knee mechanics, causing arthritis with symptoms like pain and swelling, similar to those seen in osteoarthritis.

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ROBOTIC-ASSISTED SURGERY TECHNOLOGY

Dr. Laflamme and Dr. Nguyen’s commitment to staying at the forefront of medical advancements ensures that you receive the most advanced techniques and technologies available in this field. Our robotic-assisted surgeries allow for the precise placement of the knee prosthesis for each patient.

READY TO REGAIN YOUR MOBILITY?

Already on the public waitlist? Is the wait too long?

If you wish to have surgery without delay, the Hip and Knee Clinic offers fast-track access. You’ll be able to return to your daily activities in no time!

HOW DOES KNEE REPLACEMENT WORK?

Knee replacement surgery can be categorized into two main types: partial knee replacement and total knee replacement. The choice between partial and total knee replacement depends on the extent of the knee damage, the patient’s overall health, activity level, and specific needs.

PARTIAL KNEE REPLACEMENT

In a partial knee arthroplasty, only the most damaged part of the knee is replaced, preserving as much of the natural knee structure as possible. This option is suitable for patients whose arthritis or damage is limited to a specific part of the knee, often resulting in a faster recovery.

Procedure Overview

For a partial knee arthroplasty, the patient is first anesthetized for comfort. A precise incision is made in the knee to access the damaged compartment, identified as medial, lateral, or patellofemoral. The surgeon removes only the damaged cartilage and bone to preserve healthy tissue. The ends of the femur and tibia are shaped to fit the new prosthetic components, made of durable metal and high-quality plastic, designed to mimic the natural joint surfaces. These components are secured, often with bone cement, and a plastic insert is placed between the metal parts to ensure smooth movement. The surgeon then checks the alignment and function of the knee before closing the incision.

TOTAL KNEE REPLACEMENT

Total knee replacement involves the replacement of all articular surfaces of the knee. This surgery is indicated for patients with more extensive joint damage or severe arthritis affecting several parts of the knee. The use of a minimally invasive technique with respect for soft tissue and customized alignment ensures rapid recovery.

Procedure Overview

During a total knee replacement, anesthesia is administered, and an incision is made to expose the entire knee joint. The damaged surfaces of the femur, tibia, and kneecap are completely removed to make way for the prosthetic components. The replacements are fitted and secured to the ends of the femur, tibia, and kneecap to replicate the natural function of the knee. The metal components are fixed to the bone using bone cement, with a plastic spacer placed between them to ensure smooth joint movement. The surgeon assesses the alignment and motion of the knee and makes any necessary adjustments. The incision is then closed.

DURATION OF THE PROCEDURE:

Approximately 1 hour

HOSPITAL STAY:

Outpatient

RECOVERY TIME:

Approximately 2-3 months

DRIVING RESTRICTIONS:

2 – 4 weeks

RETURN TO WORK:

1–3 months after surgery

RESUME PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES:

Starting gradually from the 2nd week

OUR CASE STUDIES

Medial osteoarthritis of the left knee treated with a partial unicompartmental knee prosthesis, tricompartmental knee

Osteoarthritis treated with total knee replacement

ERAS – ENHANCED RECOVERY AFTER SURGERY PROTOCOL

What sets us apart is our comprehensive approach to patient care. It combines an enhanced recovery protocol with a minimally invasive surgical technique, allowing for faster recovery and the ability to walk as early as the day after surgery.

By standardizing care before, during, and after the operation—with a focus on nutrition, pain management, hydration, and early mobilization—this approach reduces hospital stays and complications while actively involving patients in their recovery. Our commitment to ERAS reflects our dedication to improving outcomes and the patient experience at the Hanche Genou Clinic.

The recovery period can vary depending on the patient’s health and the type of knee replacement (total or partial).Patients usually start walking with an aid, such as a walker or cane, 2 to 3 hours after surgery. Physical therapy starts immediately. Most patients can resume light daily activities within the first week after surgery. Full recovery and the return to more intense activities, including sports, may take 6 to 12 months.

Knee replacement, like any major surgery, carries certain risks and potential complications. Although most operations are successful, there is a small risk of infection, blood clots, loosening or wear of the implant over time, and damage to the nerves or blood vessels near the knee. Despite the surgery, there is a risk of persistent knee pain and stiffness, but these complications are rare. Patients should discuss these potential risks with their doctor.

At the Hanche Genou Clinic, the combination of our minimally invasive approach, our rapid recovery protocols and our use of personalized alignment means a return to activity and physical work after 3 months.

Results

After knee replacement, patients often report a significant improvement in their quality of life, marked by reduced pain and improved mobility. The ability to perform daily activities such as walking, climbing stairs, and low-impact exercise improves greatly, allowing for a more active lifestyle. Relief from chronic knee pain makes physical activity easier and contributes to better sleep and overall well-being. Although results may vary depending on individual factors, most patients experience a substantial reduction in discomfort and an increase in joint function and range of motion. While high-impact activities sometimes need to be moderated to ensure the longevity of the prosthetic joint, most patients are able to return to the lifestyle they desired.

FAQ

What is the typical age of people who undergo knee replacement?

There is no age limit for knee replacement! Thanks to the durability of the modern implants we use at the Hanche Genou Clinic, we are now able to offer a solution to younger individuals suffering from debilitating knee osteoarthritis.

Can you play sports after a knee replacement?

Recent studies show that sports are beneficial for patients who have undergone knee replacement, without increasing the risk of premature wear. At the Hanche Genou Clinic, we encourage our patients to return to their sports and passions!

How long does a knee prosthesis last?

Most of our patients will never need to have their prosthesis replaced! According to the latest studies on the longevity of modern implants, over 90% of patients can expect their prosthesis to last more than 20 years.

How do I know if I need a knee replacement?

A knee replacement may be considered if you experience significant pain, stiffness, and limited mobility in the knee that affect your daily activities and do not improve with other treatments.

Will I feel pain after knee replacement?

It is normal to experience some postoperative pain, which can usually be managed with medication. The pain gradually decreases as you recover and follow your physiotherapy sessions.

Is physiotherapy necessary after a knee replacement?

Yes, physiotherapy is essential for a successful recovery, as it helps restore strength, flexibility, and knee function. We follow ERAS recovery protocols, which incorporate the latest global standards and techniques. Our patients begin physiotherapy as soon as possible.

Does knee replacement require hospitalization?

Knee replacement is a same-day, outpatient surgery thanks to the optimized recovery protocols (ERAS) we follow. Many patients at the Hanche Genou Clinic are able to return home the same evening and sleep in their own bed.


REGAIN YOUR MOBILITY AND IMPROVE YOUR QUALITY OF LIFE.

CONTACT DRS. YVES LAFLAMME AND HAI NGUYEN FOR HIP OR KNEE REPLACEMENT IN MONTREAL.

With over 25 years of experience and more than 12,000 successful surgeries, our doctors are renowned for their expertise in complex hip and knee cases and their commitment to providing exceptional patient care.