People normally have knee surgery done to have better mobility and for pain relief, according to Mayo Clinic. Arthritis, sport injuries and aging are some of the reasons why knee surgery is needed. Total knee replacement is sometimes necessary.
Knee Replacement
During knee replacement surgery the damaged joints get replaced with plastic or metal components, shaped to allow better motion in the knee. Total knee replacement patients are most frequently over the age of 55, according to Mayo Clinic.
Arthroscopic Knee Surgery
During this process a surgeon will use a surgical instrument to examine the inside of the knee for wear and tear. Damage to the knee can also be repaired in this manner.
Risks
Knee surgery and specifically knee replacement surgery have a very low risk rate. About 2 percent of people who have had knee replacement surgery experienced serious complications like infections of the knee joint, according to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, while heart attacks, blood clots and strokes are even less common in patients.
Recovery
The recovery period will depend on the type of surgery the patient had, but recovery is mostly a long process which includes different therapies. Walking can normally be resumed after about three weeks with the assistance of a cane or walker.
Cost
Prices vary considerably, but knee replacement surgery costs around $30,000. Patients with medical insurance should be covered for the majority of the bill if the procedure is ordered by a physician and approved by the insurance company. The percentage owed out-of-pocket varies depending on the co-insurance and deductible, according to Cost Helper.
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