Knee replacement surgery is a safe, common procedure for individuals dealing with long-term stiffness or knee pain. However, as with any invasive procedure, the risks go up as we age. Older people aged 80 and over can still undergo a knee replacement – indeed, it can restore their quality of life – but they should be aware of any special considerations and complications.

According to a 2020 study, there is a slightly higher risk of complication and a longer recovery timeline among patients 80 years older and over compared to their younger counterparts. Nonetheless, the procedure was still considered “safe and efficacious” among elderly patients.

In this guide, you’ll find:

• Understanding Knee Replacement Surgery
• Special Considerations for Older Patients
• Risks and Complications in Older Patients
• Rehabilitation and Recovery

Understanding Knee Replacement Surgery

Knee replacement surgery refers to the partial or total replacement of a knee joint with a prosthetic implant. During the operation, the surface(s) of the knee joint are removed and replaced with either metal or plastic inserts.

Depending on the underlying you may undergo one of two possible surgeries:

1. Total Knee Replacement Surgery involves replacing all three compartments of the knee joint with artificial components, addressing severe knee arthritis or damage.
2. Partial Knee Replacement Surgery targets only the damaged compartment of the knee, preserving healthy bone and tissue and being suitable for patients with limited knee damage.

Your surgeon will evaluate your knee joint with X-rays, CT scans, and other imagery to determine the severity of the condition. Based on their observations, they will advise on the best course of action to undo the damage and restore function.

Common reasons patients undergo a knee replacement surgery include:

• Arthritis Relief: Older adults often undergo knee replacement surgery primarily to relieve pain and mobility issues caused by severe arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis, which is common in ageing joints.
• Improved Mobility: Knee replacement can significantly enhance mobility and the quality of life for older adults who may have been increasingly limited in their daily activities due to knee pain and joint dysfunction.
• Restoration of Independence: By alleviating pain and improving joint function, knee replacement surgery can help older adults regain independence, allowing them to perform daily tasks and engage in activities they enjoy without relying heavily on others or assistive devices.
• Pain Management: Chronic knee pain that doesn’t respond to conservative treatments like medications, physical therapy, or injections may lead older adults to opt for knee replacement surgery as a definitive solution to manage and potentially eliminate the pain.

Special Considerations for Older Patients

Older patients require additional care and attention during a knee replacement. That’s especially true if they’ve chosen to undergo knee replacement surgery abroad. However, with a few special considerations and planning, the procedure can be highly successful, providing individuals with many more years of happiness and independence.

If you’re an older patient, your surgeon will consider the following factors:

• Assessment of Overall Health: Older patients require thorough preoperative evaluations to assess their overall health status, including heart, lung, and kidney functions, to ensure they can safely undergo anaesthesia and surgery.
• Management of Comorbidities: It’s crucial to manage existing chronic conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease, to minimise surgical risks and enhance recovery outcomes.
• Bone Quality: Older adults may have decreased bone density, which can affect the implant’s fixation on the bone. Surgeons need to consider this factor when planning the surgery.
• Rehabilitation and Recovery: The rehabilitation process may take longer in older adults, requiring a tailored approach to physical therapy to meet their specific needs and capabilities.
• Risk of Postoperative Complications: The potential for postoperative complications, such as infections, blood clots, or pneumonia, is higher in older patients, necessitating close monitoring during the recovery period.
• Medication Interactions: The impact of existing medications on surgery and anaesthesia, as well as the potential for interactions with postoperative pain management drugs, must be carefully evaluated.

In addition to these factors, your home life is critical to support a successful recovery. You should have adequate social support – from walking assistance to cooking meals – to help support your journey back to mobility and ensure you adhere to rehabilitation protocols.

Risks and Complications in Older Patients

All invasive operations carry risks. Your surgeon will advise on whether the pros outweigh the potential cons in your case. While the majority of these complications carry a low risk – and only around 10% of patients ever experience any complications – it’s still important to be aware of what could occur.

Some complications to consider include:

• Increased risk of infections
• Higher likelihood of blood clots
• Prolonged healing time
• Potential for anaesthesia-related complications
• Greater chance of postoperative delirium
• Enhanced risk of falls during recovery
• Possibility of implant loosening or wear over time
• Need for revision surgery

Your nutrition, lifestyle, and commitment to rehabilitation protocols also influence the likelihood of these complications. Taking proactive measures can speed up the recovery process. Remember, the sooner you recover, the more you can enjoy your newfound independence.

Trust Kardiolita Hospital For Your Knee Replacement Surgery

Located in Lithuania in the Baltic states, Kardiolita Hospital is a renowned orthopaedic centre specialising in treating foreign patients, especially those from the Republic of Ireland. Our highly proficient surgical team boasts a wealth of experience.

Like other Lithuanian hospitals, our commitment to a safe recovery means we see an extremely low rate of complications. In fact, Lithuania has the 2^nd lowest rate of complications for orthopaedic surgeries worldwide.

We only use the newest 4^th generation implants to reduce the risks further. And, for older patients, we work closely with their families to ensure they receive the highest standards of care and minimise any complications.

Regain your independence and experience a higher quality of life. Learn more about our comprehensive knee replacement services at Kardiolita Hospital.