Knee replacement (arthroplasty)
Dr Loseli offers a range of knee procedures, from total knee replacement to ACL reconstruction
Knee replacement (arthroplasty)
A total knee replacement (arthroplasty )is a major surgical procedure that involves removing damaged or diseased parts of the knee joint and replacing them with artificial components made of metal and plastic. It is a commonly performed orthopedic surgery that can help alleviate pain, restore mobility, and improve quality of life for those suffering from severe arthritis or other debilitating conditions affecting the knee.
For those considering a total knee replacement, it is important to understand the process and potential risks involved. Patients should discuss all the options with their doctor before making a decision. The surgery typically requires general anesthesia and can last up to two hours. During the procedure, the surgeon will remove the damaged bone and replace it with artificial components made of metal and plastic. The new joint will be carefully positioned to allow for normal movement of the knee.
After surgery, patients can expect some pain and swelling in the area. It is important to follow post-operative instructions carefully, which will likely include physical therapy and light exercise to strengthen the muscles around the joint. It is important to be mindful of your body and take proper precautions to avoid re-injury. Patients should maintain a healthy lifestyle with plenty of rest, balanced diet, and light exercise. Physical therapy can also help improve strength and mobility in the affected area, as well as reduce swelling and pain. It can take up to three months for a patient to experience full relief from the procedure, but with proper care and dedication, a total knee replacement can be successful in improving quality of life for those suffering from debilitating conditions.
Expert Knee Replacement Surgery in Wagga Wagga
Dr. Tau Loseli provides advanced knee replacement surgery for patients throughout Wagga Wagga, Griffith, and the broader Riverina region. As a specialist orthopaedic surgeon with extensive training at major Australian trauma centres, Dr. Loseli combines technical excellence with a patient-centred approach to deliver optimal outcomes for those suffering from debilitating knee conditions.
Knee replacement surgery represents one of the most successful procedures in modern orthopaedic medicine, with the vast majority of patients experiencing significant pain relief and restored mobility. Dr. Loseli’s experience with total knee replacements ensures you receive personalised treatment recommendations based on your specific condition, activity level, and recovery goals.
When is Knee Replacement Recommended?
The decision to undergo knee replacement is significant, and Dr. Loseli ensures every patient fully understands their condition, treatment options, and what to expect throughout the surgical and recovery process. A knee replacement may be recommended when conservative treatments such as medications, physiotherapy, weight management, and joint injections no longer provide adequate relief from pain and functional limitations.
Common Conditions Leading to Knee Replacement:
- Osteoarthritis: The most common reason for knee replacement, osteoarthritis involves the gradual wearing away of the protective cartilage cushioning the knee joint. This degenerative condition causes pain, stiffness, and progressive loss of function that can significantly impact quality of life.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: This inflammatory condition can damage the knee joint lining and cartilage, leading to pain and deformity. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis may require knee replacement at younger ages than those with osteoarthritis.
- Post-Traumatic Arthritis: Previous knee injuries, including fractures and ligament tears, can accelerate cartilage wear and lead to early-onset arthritis requiring surgical intervention.
Avascular Necrosis: Loss of blood supply to bone can cause the knee joint to deteriorate, particularly affecting the femoral condyles. Dr. Loseli’s experience with complex cases ensures appropriate treatment for these challenging conditions.
Modern Knee Replacement Technology
Dr. Loseli utilizes modern surgical techniques and implant technology to maximize the longevity and function of your knee replacement. His training at leading Australian hospitals ensures access to the latest advances in orthopaedic surgery, bringing metropolitan-level expertise to regional patients.
Total Knee Replacement Options:
Posterior Stabilized (PS) Designs: These implants incorporate a specialized post-and-cam mechanism that provides excellent stability for patients with significant ligament damage or deformity. Dr. Loseli frequently recommends PS designs for patients requiring maximum stability and confidence in their knee function.
Cruciate Retaining (CR) Designs: For patients with intact posterior cruciate ligaments, CR implants preserve the natural ligament, potentially providing more natural knee feel and proprioception. This option works well for patients with less severe arthritis and good ligament integrity.
Modern Implant Materials:
Dr. Loseli uses advanced implant materials including cobalt-chromium alloys, titanium, and highly cross-linked polyethylene designed for exceptional wear resistance and longevity. Modern knee replacement implants regularly function well for 15-20 years or longer, with many patients experiencing decades of reliable service from their artificial joints.
What Happens During Knee Replacement Surgery
Understanding what happens during knee replacement surgery helps patients feel more confident and prepared. Dr. Loseli ensures every patient receives thorough pre-operative education about the surgical process, anesthesia options, and what to expect in the operating room.
Pre-Operative Assessment:
Before surgery, Dr. Loseli conducts comprehensive evaluation including detailed medical history, physical examination, and review of imaging studies. Pre-operative planning includes templating to select appropriate implant sizes and surgical approach considerations. Patients receive instructions about medication management, including temporary cessation of blood thinners, and guidance about optimizing health conditions prior to surgery.
Surgical Technique:
The knee replacement procedure typically takes 1-2 hours, performed through a carefully planned incision that minimizes tissue disruption while allowing optimal access to the joint. Dr. Loseli’s surgical approach focuses on:
Precise bone cuts using modern alignment guides
Careful soft tissue balancing to ensure proper tracking and stability
Accurate implant positioning for optimal function and longevity
Meticulous attention to component alignment and ligament tension
Throughout the procedure, Dr. Loseli confirms proper implant fit, knee alignment, and range of motion before completing the reconstruction. Modern fixation techniques using specialised bone cement or cementless technology ensure secure long-term implant stability.
Hospital Stay and Immediate Recovery:
Most patients remain in hospital for 2-4 days following knee replacement surgery. This allows for pain management optimization, wound monitoring, and initiation of physiotherapy. Dr. Loseli practices at multiple facilities throughout the Riverina, offering both public and private options to accommodate patient needs and insurance coverage.
Recovery Timeline - Early Phase (0-6 Weeks)
The First Six Weeks After Surgery
The initial recovery period focuses on wound healing, pain management, and restoring basic function. Physical therapy begins immediately, with goals including:
- Achieving full knee extension to prevent contracture
- Gradually increasing flexion to 90-110 degrees
- Strengthening quadriceps and hamstring muscles
- Progressing from walker to cane to independent walking
- Managing swelling through elevation and ice application
Most patients can discontinue walking aids within 2-4 weeks and return to light daily activities. Dr. Loseli works closely with experienced physiotherapists throughout Wagga Wagga and Griffith who understand his surgical techniques and rehabilitation protocols.
Intermediate Phase (6-12 Weeks)
Building Strength and Function
This phase emphasizes continued strengthening and functional progression. Patients typically begin:
- Driving (when off narcotic pain medications and demonstrating safe reaction times)
- Returning to office work and sedentary occupations
- Resuming light household activities
- Progressing exercise programs to improve strength and endurance
- Achieving 110-120 degrees of flexion
Regular follow-up appointments with Dr. Loseli ensure proper healing and allow for adjustments to the rehabilitation program based on individual progress.
Long-Term Phase (3-6 Months)
Achieving Maximum Recovery
Full recovery from knee replacement continues for several months, with most patients reaching maximum improvement by 3-6 months post-surgery. During this period, goals include:
- Returning to most normal activities including recreation and travel
- Achieving full range of motion (typically 0-120+ degrees)
- Building strength to pre-arthritic levels or better
- Resuming low-impact sports such as golf, swimming, and cycling
- Adapting to the new knee and optimising function
Activity Recommendations:
Dr. Loseli provides detailed guidance about appropriate activities following knee replacement. Low-impact activities are generally encouraged, including walking, swimming, golf, bowling, and cycling. Higher-impact activities require individual discussion based on implant type, bone quality, and patient goals.
Why Choose Dr. Tau Loseli for Knee Replacement?
Specialist Training and Experience:
As a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) and the Australian Orthopaedic Association (FAOrthA), Dr. Loseli completed rigorous specialist training including rotations at major trauma centers throughout Sydney. This comprehensive training encompasses all aspects of knee surgery, from routine replacements to complex revision procedures.
Local Surgeon with Metropolitan Expertise:
Dr. Loseli brings the expertise typically found only in major city hospitals to the Riverina region. As a Griffith local who chose to return home after specialist training, he understands the unique needs of regional patients while providing access to advanced surgical techniques and modern implant technology.
Personalised Patient Care:
Dr. Loseli’s patient-centered approach ensures you receive individualized attention throughout your knee replacement journey. From initial consultation through complete recovery, he maintains accessible communication and provides thorough explanations about your condition and treatment options.
Multidisciplinary Collaboration:
Working closely with local physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and primary care physicians, Dr. Loseli ensures coordinated care that optimizes outcomes. This collaborative approach maintains continuity with your existing healthcare relationships while providing specialized orthopaedic expertise.
Multiple Practice Locations:
With surgical privileges at hospitals in both Wagga Wagga and Griffith, Dr. Loseli offers convenient access to knee replacement surgery without requiring travel to metropolitan centers. This regional accessibility proves particularly valuable during the recovery period when regular follow-up appointments are important.
Preparing for Your Consultation
Getting Ready to Meet Dr. Loseli
If you’re experiencing persistent knee pain that limits your daily activities, Dr. Loseli can assess whether knee replacement might benefit you. Understanding what to bring and expect during your consultation helps ensure a productive discussion about treatment options.
What to Bring:
- X-rays and any MRI scans of your knee
- List of current medications and supplements
- Details about previous knee treatments and their effectiveness
- Information about your activity goals and lifestyle requirements
- Medicare card and private health insurance details
Signs You May Benefit from Knee Replacement:
- Severe knee pain that limits walking, climbing stairs, or daily activities
- Chronic knee pain and stiffness, especially first thing in morning or after rest
- Moderate to severe pain during rest or at night
- Knee inflammation and swelling that doesn’t improve with rest or medication
- Knee deformity or instability affecting walking and balance
- Failure of conservative treatments including medications and physical therapy
The Consultation Process:
During your initial consultation, Dr. Loseli conducts thorough physical examination of your knee, reviews imaging studies, and discusses your symptoms and functional limitations. He explains the knee replacement procedure, expected outcomes, potential risks, and recovery timeline. This comprehensive discussion ensures you make informed decisions about your orthopaedic care.
Scheduling Your Surgery:
Following the decision to proceed with knee replacement, Dr. Loseli’s team coordinates pre-operative appointments, including pre-admission clinic visits and any required medical consultations. Surgery scheduling accommodates your personal circumstances including work commitments and support availability during recovery.
Long-Term Success and Follow-Up
Your Knee Replacement for Years to Come
Dr. Loseli’s commitment to patient care extends throughout the life of your knee replacement. Regular follow-up appointments monitor implant function, identify any potential issues early, and ensure you’re achieving optimal benefit from your surgery.
Expected Outcomes:
The vast majority of knee replacement patients experience dramatic pain relief and functional improvement. Most achieve the ability to walk unlimited distances, climb stairs normally, and return to enjoyable activities that were previously impossible due to knee pain. While a replaced knee won’t feel exactly like a natural knee, most patients report high satisfaction with their improved quality of life.
Modern knee replacements typically last 15-20 years or longer, with many patients never requiring revision surgery. Dr. Loseli’s use of current surgical techniques and advanced implant materials maximizes the likelihood of long-term success.
Get Back on Your Feet with Dr. Loseli
Experience expert orthopaedic care in the Riverina. Let Dr. Tau Loseli help you regain your mobility and well-being.
Contact us today to start your journey towards a healthier, pain-free life.