Each patient is unique, but generally candidates for knee replacement surgery have:

• Pain severe enough to restrict not only work and recreation, but also the routine activities of daily living
• Pain that is not relieved by more conservative methods of treatment, such as reduced activity, medication or physical therapy
• Significant joint stiffness and loss of mobility
• X-rays that show advanced arthritis or other degenerative problems

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has concluded that knee replacement surgery is "a safe and cost-effective treatment for alleviating pain and restoring function in patients who do not respond to non-surgical therapies."1 According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, knee replacement procedures have resulted in significant restoration of function and reduction of pain in about 90% of patients.2 As you read,make a note of anything you don't understand. Your doctor will be happy to answer your questions so that you'll feel comfortable and confident with your chosen treatment plan.

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References:

1. National Institutes of Health Consensus Development Conference Statement: Total Knee Replacement 12/10/03.
2. AAOS website, http://orthoinfo.aaos. org/topic.cfm?topic=A00385, accessed April 2011.