Knee prosthesis: an effective solution against osteoarthritis
Dr. Jacques Vallotton explains the causes and consequences of knee osteoarthritis and presents surgical solutions such as total or partial knee replacements. He details the procedure, rehabilitation, and possible postoperative activities.
Doctors
Topics
Treatments
Advice
- Dr Jacques Vallotton
- Definition of osteoarthritis
- Causes of knee osteoarthritis
- Overview of the knee compartments
- Indications for a prosthesis
- Types of prosthesis
- Total knee replacement
- Unicompartmental prosthesis
- Post-operative rehabilitation
- Osteoarthritis destroys cartilage and limits mobility
- Prosthesis improves quality of life
- Rehabilitation is fast and effective
Knee osteoarthritis: understanding the pain and loss of mobility
Osteoarthritis is the destruction of the cartilage that lines the joint surfaces. When bone rubs against bone, pain, catching, pseudo-locking and reduced range of motion occur, with repercussions on walking and posture. Depending on the condition, one or more compartments of the knee may be affected, which requires a precise assessment before any treatment decision is made.
Understanding the mechanism of injury helps link symptoms to the actual functioning of the joint.
When to consider a prosthesis: the issue is quality of life
The indication is discussed when pain persists despite conservative treatments, lameness sets in and activities are limited. Age is not the central criterion: the aim is to restore an active life and reliable walking. Excessive delay exposes the patient to compensations (hip, back) likely to worsen subsequent results.
Knee replacement may well be a solution for the future.
Two families of implants: partial and total
Unicompartmental prosthesis reconstructs an affected compartment while preserving the ligaments, with more limited surgery and often generous flexion, at the cost of strict indications. Total resurfacing prosthesis treats global osteoarthritis and aims for kinematics close to that of a healthy knee, with biocompatible materials (chromium-cobalt-molybdenum alloys) and low-wear surfaces. Fixation is most often cemented, with variations depending on bone quality.
Intervention and safety: prevention and precision
Modern surgery integrates infection prevention, thromboembolic prophylaxis, and rational management of blood loss. 3D planning prepares component alignment and sizing, and minimally invasive surgery spares tissue where appropriate. The procedure aims for stability, mobility, and precise positioning for long-term function.
We prioritize quality of life, not just the patient's age.
Rehabilitation and support: resume early to recover better
Early rising and full weight-bearing are introduced quickly and under supervision. Physiotherapy restores extension and then flexion, strengthens the extensor system and corrects compensations. Balneotherapy and video support facilitate self-rehabilitation at home. Progress is measured by pain, range of motion and gait, with scheduled follow-up.
Sports and activities: resume with discernment
After recovery, swimming, brisk walking, or cycling are generally preferred. A gradual return to more demanding activities (tennis, for example) may be considered on a case-by-case basis, depending on stability, strength, and pain-free status. The goal is not performance at all costs, but a lasting, pain-free active life.
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