In this article, Dr. Marouane Bouloudhnine, a top orthopedic surgeon in Dubai, explains what knee replacement surgery is, when you might need it, how it is done, and what you can expect during recovery. Whether you’re thinking about this surgery for yourself or a loved one, this guide will help you understand the process in a simple way.
What Is Knee Replacement Surgery?
Knee replacement surgery, also called knee arthroplasty, is a medical procedure to replace a damaged or worn-out knee joint with an artificial one. The artificial knee joint is usually made of metal and plastic parts. If you're considering this procedure, it's essential to consult the best orthopedic doctor in dubai to ensure optimal care and recovery.
The goal of this surgery is to:
Reduce pain
Improve movement
Help you return to your daily activities
There are two main types:
Total knee replacement: The entire knee joint is replaced.
Partial knee replacement: Only the damaged part of the knee is replaced.
Why Do People Need Knee Replacement?
Most people need knee replacement because of osteoarthritis, a condition that happens when the cartilage in your knee wears down over time. Without this cartilage, the bones rub against each other, causing pain and stiffness.
Other reasons include:
Rheumatoid arthritis: An autoimmune disease that causes joint inflammation.
Post-traumatic arthritis: Arthritis that develops after an injury.
Knee deformities: Bowed legs or knock knees.
Severe injuries or fractures: Damage that cannot be repaired with other treatments.
Signs You Might Need Knee Replacement
According to Dr. Marouane Bouloudhnine, here are signs that it might be time to consider knee replacement:
Constant pain in your knee, even when resting
Difficulty walking, climbing stairs, or getting out of a chair
Stiffness in the morning or after sitting for a while
Swelling or inflammation that doesn’t go away
No improvement with medication, physical therapy, or injections
Your quality of life is going down because of knee pain
Preparing for the Surgery
Before the surgery, Dr. Marouane and his team will do a full check-up to make sure you're ready. This usually includes:
Blood tests
X-rays or MRI scans
Medical history and physical examination
A discussion about any medications you're taking
You may also need to:
Stop smoking (if you smoke)
Lose weight (if recommended)
Do gentle exercises to strengthen your muscles
Learn to use crutches or a walker
What Happens During Knee Replacement Surgery?
The surgery usually takes about 1 to 2 hours and is done under either general anesthesia (you’re asleep) or spinal anesthesia (you’re awake but numb below the waist).
Here’s what Dr. Marouane’s surgical team typically does:
Makes a cut on the front of your knee to open it up.
Removes the damaged bone and cartilage from your thigh bone, shinbone, and kneecap.
Shapes the bone surfaces to fit the new joint.
Attaches the artificial parts using special cement or another material.
Tests the new joint to make sure it moves well.
Closes the incision with stitches or staples.
After the Surgery: What to Expect
1. Right After Surgery
You’ll wake up in a recovery room.
You may feel some pain, but you’ll get medication to manage it.
A physical therapist may help you stand or walk a little — even on the same day.
2. Hospital Stay
Most patients stay in the hospital for 1 to 3 days.
You’ll do light exercises to get your knee moving.
Nurses and doctors will monitor your healing closely.
3. Going Home
You’ll need someone to help you at home for the first few days.
You may need crutches or a walker.
You’ll take pain medication and possibly antibiotics.
Recovery Timeline
Everyone heals at a different pace, but here’s a general idea of what to expect:
Week 1-2: Focus on resting, managing pain, and doing light exercises.
Week 3-6: Walking more comfortably with support. Stitches are usually removed around this time.
Week 7-12: Moving with less pain. Starting to regain strength.
3 to 6 months: Most people return to daily activities like driving, shopping, and even some light sports.
6 to 12 months: Full recovery. The knee feels more natural.
Dr. Marouane stresses the importance of physical therapy during recovery. It helps rebuild strength and flexibility.
Risks and Complications
Like any surgery, knee replacement has some risks. Dr. Marouane always makes sure patients understand these before making a decision.
Possible risks include:
Infection
Blood clots
Knee stiffness
Loosening of the implant over time
Pain that doesn't go away
Nerve or blood vessel damage (rare)
However, these risks are low, especially when the surgery is done by an experienced surgeon like Dr. Marouane Bouloudhnine.
Benefits of Knee Replacement
The benefits are often life-changing:
✅ Less or no pain
✅ Improved movement
✅ Better sleep
✅ Higher quality of life
✅ Ability to walk, exercise, and enjoy hobbies again
Most knee replacements last 15 to 20 years or more, especially with proper care and activity.
Tips for a Smooth Recovery
Dr. Marouane shares these helpful tips to heal faster:
Follow your doctor’s advice: Take medicines and go to follow-up appointments.
Do your exercises daily: Physical therapy is very important.
Eat healthy foods: Good nutrition supports healing.
Avoid smoking and alcohol: These slow down recovery.
Keep your knee clean and dry: Prevent infections.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How painful is the surgery?
A: You’ll have some pain after surgery, but it’s manageable with medication. Most patients feel much better after a few weeks.
Q: Can I walk after surgery?
A: Yes, most people take their first steps within a day or two after surgery with help from a walker.
Q: When can I drive again?
A: Usually around 6 weeks after surgery, once you can bend your knee easily and react quickly.
Q: Will the artificial knee feel natural?
A: At first, it might feel different. But with time and exercise, it will feel more natural, and you’ll notice less pain.
Q: Can I play sports after surgery?
A: You can enjoy light sports like walking, swimming, or golf. Avoid high-impact sports like running or jumping.
Why Choose Dr. Marouane Bouloudhnine in Dubai?
Dr. Marouane Bouloudhnine is one of the most respected orthopedic surgeons in Dubai. He has years of experience in performing successful knee replacement surgeries with excellent results.
Here’s why patients trust him:
International training and certifications
Advanced surgical techniques
Personalized care and treatment plans
Excellent track record of patient satisfaction
Friendly and professional team
If you’re struggling with knee pain and think surgery might help, Dr. Marouane offers thorough consultations to guide you in making the right choice.
Final Thoughts
Knee replacement surgery is not just about replacing a joint — it’s about getting your life back. If knee pain is stopping you from doing the things you love, it might be time to consider this safe and effective procedure.
With Dr. Marouane Bouloudhnine’s expert care in Dubai, you can take confident steps toward a pain-free and active life. The first step? Book a consultation and get a clear understanding of your options.
