Knee replacement (arthroplasty) is a surgical procedure to resurface or replace damaged knee joint components with prosthetic implants. It is highly effective in relieving chronic knee pain and restoring mobility in patients with severe arthritis.
Knee replacement surgery, also called knee arthroplasty, is performed to relieve severe pain and restore function in a knee joint damaged by arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or post-traumatic arthritis) that no longer responds to conservative treatments. The surgeon removes damaged cartilage and bone from the knee joint surfaces and replaces them with metal and plastic implants that recreate smooth, low-friction joint movement.
There are two main types: total knee replacement (TKR), which resurfaces all three compartments of the knee joint, and partial (unicompartmental) knee replacement, which addresses only the most affected compartment and preserves more natural bone and ligament. Total knee replacement is far more common and has a longer track record. In Korea, knee replacement is performed at major hospital orthopaedic units and private hospitals by KMA-registered orthopaedic surgeons.
Recovery requires a dedicated commitment to physiotherapy, beginning on the day of or day after surgery. Most patients are discharged within 2–4 days. Walking with a frame or crutches begins immediately; driving resumes at 4–6 weeks; full recovery and return to low-impact activities takes 3–6 months. Modern implants are designed to last 15–20 years. Candidacy is determined by the severity of pain and functional limitation, not age alone — though most patients are over 55.
Key Points
- Resurfaces damaged knee joint with metal and plastic implants
- Total vs partial (unicompartmental) knee replacement — surgeon advises based on disease extent
- Physiotherapy begins the day of/after surgery — critical for recovery
- Most patients walk with assistance within 24 hours post-op
- Full recovery and return to daily activities: 3–6 months
- Modern implants designed to last 15–20 years
Causes & Risk Factors
- Severe osteoarthritis of the knee — most common indication
- Rheumatoid arthritis causing joint destruction
- Post-traumatic arthritis following knee fracture or ligament injury
- Avascular necrosis (bone death) of the knee
- Severe knee deformity (varus or valgus) causing pain and functional limitation
- Failure of conservative treatments: physiotherapy, weight loss, injections, and medications
When to See a Doctor
- If knee pain significantly limits daily activities — walking, climbing stairs, or getting up from a chair
- If knee pain persists at rest or disrupts sleep
- If you have tried physiotherapy, weight management, anti-inflammatory medications, and injections without sufficient relief
- Before considering surgery — an orthopaedic surgeon consultation is essential to confirm you are a candidate
- If you have significant knee deformity, instability, or locking
- After knee replacement — if you develop fever, increased redness, wound discharge, or sudden severe pain
For emergencies in Korea, call 119
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This content is published for educational purposes only. For accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment, consult a licensed KMA physician in Korea.
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Medical Disclaimer
This article is published by DoctorsInKorea.com for educational and informational purposes only. It does not replace a professional clinical evaluation by a licensed healthcare provider. For accurate medical diagnosis and personalised treatment paths, please book an appointment with a licensed KMA physician. For immediate life-threatening medical emergencies in Korea, please call 119.
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Last reviewed: May 29, 2026