Knee Surgery Prognosis

Surgery is a common option to repair a number of serious knee injuries, including broken bones, torn cartilage, tendon damage, ligament damage and degenerative arthritis. The prognosis, or outcome, of knee surgery varies with the individual and the extent of injury.

Significance

• The knee is a major weight-bearing joint with a crucial responsibility in everyday stability and mobility. The relative success of a surgical repair can have a serious long-term impact on an individual's health and lifestyle.

Types of Surgery

• Knee surgery may be performed as a traditional open surgery or as a minimally invasive modern procedure called arthroscopy. In cases of severe injury or degeneration, total knee replacement may be necessary.

Recovery Times

• Full recovery from minor arthroscopic knee surgery can take roughly six to eight weeks. Recovery from extensive reconstruction or replacement can take a year or longer.

Physical Therapy

• Physical therapy is an essential component of a patient's recovery and long-term prognosis. Therapy may involve weight-bearing exercises to restore strength or exercises designed to relieve stiffness and maintain proper range of motion.

Considerations

• In cases of severe injury or degenerative conditions, full recovery after surgery may not be possible. Permanent modification of normal activities may be required in these situations.