Orthopedic surgeons in the Sutter Health network use the latest technologies to perform partial and total knee replacement surgeries (also called knee arthroplasty). These surgeries replace the ends of the thighbone and shinbone with implants made with a medical-grade plastic called polyethylene and alloys of cobalt chromium and titanium. The new joint has a plastic spacer in place of cartilage so it can move smoothly.

If you’ve tried nonsurgical alternatives but you’re still dealing with injury or severe arthritis, these common surgeries can help ease pain and restore mobility. Most people spend one to three nights in the hospital after surgery, but outpatient surgery is possible if you’re healthy, strong and have support at home. Most knee replacements last at least 20 years.

Traditional Total Knee Replacement

In a traditional knee replacement, the surgeon cuts into the quadriceps tendon, which connects the quadriceps muscles on the front of the thigh to the kneecap. Your surgeon will start by moving the kneecap aside to have clear access to the knee joint. Then, they’ll remove damaged bone and cartilage from your thighbone, shinbone and kneecap, and replace it with an artificial joint made of metal and wear-resistant plastic.

Most people can walk without crutches or a cane six weeks after surgery. But it may take up to three months for the pain and swelling to completely subside. Recovery of full strength is gradual and may take up to 12 months.

Quad-Sparing Knee Replacements

During this surgery, your surgeon makes a 3-to-4-inch incision in the side of your knee and performs the knee replacement using special instruments, guided by computer imaging. The surgeon is able to lift the quadriceps muscles out of the way in order to access the knee joint.

As the name suggests, this surgery doesn’t require your surgeon to cut the quadricep tendon. Due to this, the surgery is considered minimally invasive and usually has faster recovery times. However, it isn’t right for everyone because it’s more complex and only allows a surgeon a limited view of the knee joint. You’ll want to talk to your doctor to see if this surgery is right for you.

Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement

In this surgery, robotic arm systems help your surgical team image, prepare and treat your knee. Your doctors will use the technology to create a 3D representation of your knee’s unique shape and profile. They will then use robotic assistance to resurface only the portion of your knee that’s causing problems and remove only the damaged bone. This spares your healthy bone and muscle and helps maintain your knee’s range of motion. Finally, surgeons secure the implant in the joint to allow your knee to move smoothly again. Depending on your overall health, some robotic-assisted knee replacements are performed as same-day outpatient procedures.

Robotic-assisted knee replacements are available at several hospitals in the Sutter Health network:

• Alta Bates Summit Medical Center in Oakland.
• California Pacific Medical Center in San Francisco.
• Sutter Gould Medical Foundation Stockton Surgery Center.
• Sutter Santa Rosa Regional Hospital in Santa Rosa.
• Sutter Surgical Hospital – North Valley in Yuba City.