Total Knee Replacement Procedure: Knee Arthroplasty Operation Steps

A total knee replacement surgery, also called total knee arthroplasty, is a procedure in which damaged knee cartilage and bone are replaced with metal and plastic implants. It is a high-precision reconstructive procedure designed to address advanced degenerative joint diseases (such as Osteoarthritis) and structural deformities.

This total knee replacement operation involves the systematic resurfacing of the femoral condyles and the tibial plateau using biocompatible prosthetic components. Replacing damaged knee joints with new artificial ones results in less pain, improved function, and enhanced quality of life.

With Turkey Luxury Clinics, you can enjoy an affordable, seamless, and comfortable total knee replacement experience. Discover everything you need to know here and contact us today for a free consultation.

What is Total Knee Replacement Surgery?

Total knee replacement surgery, also called knee arthroplasty, is a common and highly successful procedure in which a severely damaged or arthritic knee joint is resurfaced with artificial implants made of metal and plastic.

The surgery replaces worn or diseased cartilage and bone in the thigh (femur), shin (tibia), and sometimes the kneecap (patella) to relieve pain, restore mobility, and improve joint function.

The total knee replacement operation is performed by a specialized orthopedic surgeon to ensure a safe and effective procedure, allowing patients to return to normal daily activities with greater comfort.

Components of the Total Artificial Knee Joint

The artificial knee joint typically consists of three main parts:

1. Femoral component: A metal piece that covers the end of the thigh bone (femur).
2. Tibial component: A metal tray attached to the top of the shin bone (tibia) with a polyethylene (plastic) insert that acts as smooth cartilage.
3. Patellar component: A plastic button that replaces the undersurface of the kneecap (patella) if needed.

Total Knee Arthroplasty vs Total Knee Replacement: Do They Differ?

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and total knee replacement (TKR) are terms for the same procedure, both are surgical procedures to resurface a knee damaged by arthritis.

"Arthroplasty" is the formal medical term meaning surgical reconstruction or replacement of a joint, while "replacement" is the common term. Both involve resurfacing the damaged knee with prosthetic components

both TKA and TKR share the same core clinical foundations:

1. Primary Purpose: The fundamental goal of both is to alleviate chronic pain, correct joint deformities, and significantly improve the patient's mobility and overall quality of life.
2. Surgical Procedure: Both involve the precise surgical reconstruction and resurfacing of the joint's damaged surfaces. This includes removing osteoarthritic bone and cartilage and replacing them with high-grade, biocompatible prosthetic implants.
3. Clinical Outcome: Whether your surgeon calls it an operation or a procedure, the success rates and recovery protocols remain identical, ensuring a return to an active, pain-free lifestyle.

Read more about the indication of knee replacement

Reasons for Total Knee Replacement

Total knee replacement is typically performed to relieve severe, chronic knee pain, stiffness, and limited mobility caused by joint damage, most commonly due to osteoarthritis, that hasn't responded to conservative treatments (like physiotherapy or injections).

Reasons for Total Knee Replacement:

The primary reasons for total knee replacement include:

1. Severe Osteoarthritis: The most common cause of joint "wear and tear."
2. Rheumatoid Arthritis: Chronic inflammation that destroys cartilage.
3. Post-traumatic Arthritis: Damage resulting from serious knee injuries.
4. Chronic Pain: When pain persists even while resting or prevents sleep.
5. Loss of Function or Mobility: Inability to perform routine tasks such as climbing stairs, walking, or rising from a chair.

How is a Total Knee Replacement Done?

1. Initial incision and joint exposure
2. Removal of diseased bone and cartilage
3. Shaping bones for implants
4. Placement of prosthetic components
5. Resurfacing of kneecap (if needed)
6. Testing and alignment of joint motion
7. Closure of incision and bandaging

A total knee replacement is performed in a surgical operation under general or spinal anesthesia, typically lasting 1–3 hours.

A total knee replacement involves removing damaged cartilage and bone and replacing them with precision-fit metal implants on the thighbone (femur) and shinbone (tibia). During surgery, the orthopedic surgeon carefully shapes the bones and inserts the implants, creating a smooth, functional joint. Most patients are able to begin walking within 24 hours after the operation. A total knee replacement can be done for one knee (unilateral) or both knees (bilateral) in the same session.

Total Knee Replacement Done Video

Do you suffer from knee pain and are considering knee replacement surgery? This video walks you through everything you need to know about the procedure step by step. You’ll learn:

1. How is knee replacement surgery performed?
2. The difference between a natural knee and an artificial joint
3. Recovery time after surgery
4. Key tips to speed up healing

Knee replacement is one of the most effective solutions for osteoarthritis, chronic knee pain, and restoring mobility.

How to Prepare for Total Knee Replacement Surgery?

Your surgeon will provide you with a list of detailed instructions about what to do and what to avoid before the surgery. These instructions usually include:

1. Stopping certain medications, such as blood thinners, for 1 to 3 days before surgery (depending on the type of medication).
2. Stopping eating foods for 6–8 hours before surgery,
3. It is allowed to drink clear liquids like water up to 2 hours before anesthesia.
4. For overweight patients, losing weight is essential for proper healing and for prolonging the lifespan of the prosthetic knee.
5. Having reasonable expectations about results, recovery time, and how long you’ll need to rest or take off work.
6. Planning for a healthier lifestyle and a safe home setup to support a successful recovery after total knee replacement.

Total Knee Replacement Procedure Step by Step

1. Anesthesia & Incision: The patient is placed under general anesthesia (fully asleep) or regional/spinal anesthesia (numb from waist down). Preoperative sedatives and IV fluids are administered. The knee area is sterilized, and a vertical incision of 8–10 inches is made over the front of the knee. The patella (kneecap) is carefully moved aside to expose the joint surfaces.

2. Removing Damaged Surfaces:

The surgeon removes the damaged cartilage and bone from the ends of the femur (thighbone) and tibia (shinbone), and, if needed, from the underside of the patella. This includes degenerative bone and osteoarthritic cartilage, preparing the joint for prosthetic components.

3. Positioning Implants:

The bone surfaces are precisely shaped to fit the prosthetic components. Metal implants (titanium or cobalt-chromium) are attached to the femur and tibia, using either bone cement or a press-fit technique that encourages bone growth. These implants recreate the knee’s joint surfaces and support normal alignment and load distribution.

4. Resurfacing the Kneecap (if needed):

In some cases, the undersurface of the patella is trimmed and resurfaced with a durable plastic button, improving joint alignment and reducing friction against the new femoral component.

5. Inserting a Spacer:

A medical-grade polyethylene spacer is inserted between the metal components to allow smooth gliding motion, replicate cartilage function, and reduce wear on the implants.

6. Alignment and Motion Check:

The surgeon bends and straightens the knee to verify proper alignment, balance, and range of motion. Ligaments and soft tissues are checked for tension, ensuring stability throughout flexion and extension.

7. Closure:

Once alignment and motion are confirmed, the incision is closed with sutures or staples, and the knee is dressed with a sterile bandage. A drain may be placed to reduce fluid accumulation. The patient is then moved to the recovery room for monitoring and early pain management.

How Long Does it Take for a Total Knee Replacement?

The total knee replacement operation typically takes 1 to 2 hours for the surgery itself, and 2 to 3 hours including anesthesia and recovery from wake-up. Hospital stay usually ranges from 1 to 3 days, with full recovery taking 3 to 6 months for optimal results.

Total knee replacement operation timeline Table

Factors Affecting the Total Knee Replacement Operation Time

While the average time is consistent, several factors can influence how long is TKR surgery:

1. Case Complexity: Severe bone loss or significant joint deformity may require more meticulous shaping.
2. Surgical Technique: Minimally invasive methods or Robotic-Assisted TKA can offer higher precision, affecting the duration.
3. Surgeon Expertise: Experienced orthopedic specialists often perform the total knee replacement procedure steps more efficiently, reducing tissue trauma.
4. Unilateral vs. Bilateral: Performing surgery on both knees (bilateral) in one session will naturally extend the operative time.

Total Knee Replacement Recovery: Timeline & What to Expect

Patients often stay in the hospital for 1–3 days after surgery, but some may return home the same day if there are no complications. It’s important to arrange for someone to assist you at home and provide transportation.

Initial recovery period (first few days up to 2 weeks):

1. Rest for 1–2 days but start gentle movement and walking with assistance within 24–48 hours to prevent blood clots and stiffness.
2. Take care of the incision by keeping it clean, avoiding water, and changing dressings as instructed. Surface healing typically occurs within 10–14 days.
3. During recovery from total knee replacement pain is usually mild to moderate and can be managed with prescribed medications.

Recovery period between 2 and 6 weeks post-surgery:

1. Significant improvement in pain, mobility, and overall function.
2. Patients can return to:
3. Normal daily activities: within 3–6 weeks.
4. Work: after 4–6 weeks for desk jobs and up to 3 months for physically demanding jobs.
5. Exercise (low-impact): such as walking, swimming, or cycling, after 6–12 weeks.
6. Driving: usually after 4–6 weeks, once it is safe to control the pedals and pain medications are no longer needed.

Prolonged recovery period 3 to 6 months later

Full recovery from a total knee replacement usually takes 6 to 12 months, although most patients experience noticeable improvement in pain and mobility within the first 3 months.

Related topics: Partial versus Total Knee Replacement: Which is Better for You?

Rehabilitation in Total Knee Replacement Recovery

Rehabilitation and physiotherapy are essential after total knee replacement. A structured program—often starting within 24 hours of surgery—helps restore joint movement, strengthen muscles, and ensure long-term implant success.

These steps involve early mobilization, use of compression therapy, blood clot prevention, and guided physical therapy.

How Much Does Total Knee Replacement Cost in Turkey 2026?

The cost of total knee replacement surgery in Turkey starts from $8,000 for a single knee (unilateral TKR), which is almost 50% lower compared to the US or UK.

For example, the cost of total knee replacement in the US, UK, and Canada starts from around $20,000, while in European countries it ranges between $12,000 and $22,000.

Cost of Different Types of TKR Surgeries

1. one knee TKR: The total knee replacement surgery u/l treatment cost in Turkey usually ranges between $8,000 and $15,000. This cost applies whether you are having a left total knee replacement or a total right knee replacement.

2. Both knees TKR: For patients needing both knees replaced, the total knee replacement b/l treatment cost in Turkey is around $15,000 to $21,000, which is still much cheaper than in the US or UK, where prices often start from $20,000.

3. Robotic TKR Surgery: This advanced procedure, where a surgeon uses robotic technology for higher precision, comes at a slightly higher price. The cost of robotic total knee replacement surgery in Turkey ranges from $10,000 to $15,000 for a single knee.

Cost of Different Types of Knee Prosthetic Implants

The types of prosthetic implant used on total knee replacement differ in design and material, and the choice of implant can influence the final cost.

1. Metal-on-Plastic:

This is the most common option, featuring a metal femoral component (usually cobalt-chromium or zirconium) paired with a polyethylene tibial insert. It offers great durability and compatibility.

Cost of metal-on-plastic knee implants in Turkey: approximately $8,000 to $13,000 for unilateral TKR.

2. Ceramic-on-Plastic:

Uses a ceramic femoral component (or metal with ceramic coating) combined with a polyethylene spacer. It’s often chosen by patients with metal allergies or those seeking longer durability.

Cost of ceramic-on-plastic knee implants in Turkey: about $9,000 to $14,000 for a single knee replacement.

3. Metal-on-Metal:

Both femoral and tibial components are made of metal, but this type is rarely used in modern knee replacements due to higher wear risks.

Cost of metal-on-metal knee implants in Turkey: typically $9,000 to $15,000.

4. Ceramic-on-Ceramic:

Both components are ceramic, which makes them highly resistant to wear and very biocompatible, though they can sometimes produce noise.

Cost of ceramic-on-ceramic knee implants in Turkey: ranges from $10,000 to $16,000 for unilateral TKR.

Comprehensive Packages for Knee Replacement in Turkey

Medical tourism packages for knee replacement in Turkey typically range from $6,500 to $17,000, depending on the clinic, procedure, and services included.

These packages usually cover the surgery, anesthesia, hospital stay (4–7 days on average), medications, follow-up care, and airport transfers.

Some premium packages may also include hotel accommodation and the assistance of a private nurse.

Knee Joint Replacement Indications

We all know that arthritis can be a real pain! It's the most common cause of chronic knee pain and disability. Most knee problems are linked to three main types of arthritis:

1. Osteoarthritis: The "wear-and-tear" arthritis that usually affects people over 50 but can also occur in younger individuals.
2. Rheumatoid arthritis: A chronic inflammatory condition where the synovial membrane becomes thickened, damaging the cartilage and leading to stiffness and pain.
3. Posttraumatic arthritis: Occurs after serious knee injuries, such as fractures or ligament tears, which gradually damage the cartilage.
4. Severe knee pain or stiffness that limits everyday activities such as walking, climbing stairs, or getting in and out of chairs.
5. Inability to walk more than a few blocks without pain, sometimes requiring the use of a cane or walker.
6. Chronic knee inflammation and swelling that does not improve with rest or medications.
7. Visible knee deformity, such as bowing inward or outward.

Is Total Knee Replacement Right for Me?

Patients considered suitable for total knee replacement joint surgery are those who experience severe knee pain, limited mobility, and a reduced quality of life. To be qualified for this surgery, you should meet the following conditions:

1.Tried non-surgical treatments without success: This includes analgesics, anti-inflammatory medications, corticosteroid injections, and lifestyle changes, yet you still suffer from persistent pain.

2.Severe joint damage: Your knee has advanced degeneration or deformity that cannot be managed with traditional medical therapies.

3.Good overall health: You have no serious medical conditions that could increase surgical risks.

4.Healthy weight or reasonable BMI: Maintaining a normal or near-normal body weight improves recovery and outcomes.

5.No contraindications: You are free from conditions that would prevent you from undergoing total knee replacement surgery.

Total Knee Replacement Results and Success Rate

Total Knee Replacement in Turkey has a high success rate of around 95%, with most patients achieving long-term pain relief, improved mobility, and the ability to resume daily activities with greater ease.

Successful surgery with proper care lasts over 10 years, and can reach around 20 years with good function.

In cases of failed TKR, patients may consider Revision Knee Replacement Surgery for improved outcomes.

Risks and Complications after Total Knee Replacement?

The complication rate following total knee replacement is lower than you might think. Fewer than 2% of patients experience serious complications like a knee joint infection.

It is even less common to experience significant medical issues such as a heart attack or stroke. There's a greater chance of complications with chronic illnesses. It's not common, but when these complications arise, they can prolong or limit full recovery.

Here are some of the main complications that may arise after surgery:

1. Infection
2. Blood clots
3. Implant problems
4. Continued pain

Get Total Knee Replacement in Turkey with Turkey Luxury Clinics

Planning a total knee replacement in Turkey? With Turkey Luxury Clinics, you’ll have access to leading orthopedic surgeons, advanced medical technologies, and all-inclusive packages designed for your comfort and budget. Contact us today for a free consultation and start your journey to pain-free mobility.

FAQs About Total Knee Replacement in Turkey