Tibial plateau replacement

Then the surgeon replaces the tibial plateau by an artificial tibial component. Bone cement is often used here as well.

Then a polyethylene insert, which acts as a low-friction bearing, is secured between the metal components of the femur and tibia.

If an arthrosis is particularly severe, the back of the kneecap also has to be replaced by a polyethylene cap.

The muscles are sutured and the wound is closed using either sutures or staples. In order to avoid effusions of blood at the site of operation, two or three small tubes, so-called Redon drains, are placed in the wound to allow any blood or secretions which seep out to drain away. These can be removed two to three days after the operation.

Before the patient wakes up, a secure dressing is applied and a first X-ray is taken. This allows the surgeon to check the exact position of the knee endoprosthesis. The skin staples or stitches are moved after around 12 to 20 days.

Immediately after the operation, the patient is initially monitored and cared for by a specially trained nursing team and anaesthetists in the recovery room. If necessary, infusions or pain killers are administered. Once the patient's general condition has stabilised, he or she is transferred to his or her room on the normal ward.