Knee Replacement Surgery Video

Animated Knee Replacement Surgery Video

This animated version from Matrix Orthopedics shows an overview of what happens during the different stages of total knee replacement surgery.

It is great way to see what happens but without being too graphic - a good place to start! The video lasts approximately two minutes and there is no sound. 

There are a couple of things to note about the surgery shown here. Firstly, it does not show the removal of the cruciate ligaments, but this happens as part of the initial preparations of the bones.

Secondly, it shows the back of the kneecap being replaced, but this is only done if there is patellofemoral arthritis. In cases where there is minimal wear and tear of the kneecap, an implant may not be required. The surgeon will simply remove any osteophytes (bone spurs) on the back of the kneecap to leave a smooth and friction free surface.

Real Knee Replacement Surgery Video

This is an excellent knee replacement surgery video for those that want to see the real thing. It shows how the surgery is carried out, the steps taken by the surgeon to ensure the minimal amount of bone is removed, the accurate placement of the prosthesis and all the steps taken to prevent infection.

The actual surgery takes approximately two hours, but this video summarizes it down to around ten minutes.  You get to see all the different stages of the surgery, as well as how they select the correct size implants.

BEWARE: This is a graphic video - the 20 second introduction with the slightly scary sounding music makes that very clear. It is not for the feint hearted! But it really is a great video for those who want to see exactly what is going to happen.

I hope you will find it reassuring to see how scientific the surgery is from watching this knee replacement surgery video, how little bone is removed and all the steps taken to ensure against infection.

Further Information

Now that you've seen watched these knee replacement surgery videos, you might want to find out more about what happens e.g. recovery and rehab process, so have a look at:

1. Knee Replacement Overview: Including how to tell if you would benefit from surgery
2. TKR Surgery: What actually happens during the operation
3. Rehab: Including what you can do to get the best results 
4. Recovery: Including a guide to when you can return to activities 
   
5. Common Problems: Common problems associated with knee replacement surgery 
6. Common Questions: Frequently asked questions about knee replacements
7. Knee Replacement Book: Our popular guide to knee replacements and knee arthritis - available in paperback or on Kindle 
8. Partial Knee Replacements: Less invasive surgery where only one side of the knee is replaced

Page Last Updated: 11/23/21
Next Review Due: 11/23/23

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