What if you are told you need an urgent knee replacement?

AI-generated illustration. Based on a photograph of Prof. Dr. Gürkan Özkoç; it does not depict an actual event or patient consultation.

Knee replacement recommended for osteoarthritis is usually an elective procedure. The decision should not rest solely on the amount of wear visible on an X-ray, or on a warning that any delay will be disastrous.

What informs the decision?

Pain affecting everyday life or sleep, limited movement, deformity and the response to appropriate nonsurgical treatment are considered together. Expected benefits, possible risks and the patient's expectations should be discussed openly.

There is no universal requirement to wait until age 60, or to be able to walk only a particular number of metres. Age, general health and lifestyle contribute to the assessment, but no single factor replaces the overall decision. A second opinion can be a normal part of planning.

When should you not wait?

A knee that suddenly becomes red, hot and swollen, particularly with fever or an inability to bear weight, may need urgent assessment. The immediate priority is to investigate causes such as infection.

These symptoms do not automatically mean that an urgent knee replacement is needed. They represent a separate clinical problem that must be assessed.

Sources

• AAOS: Total knee replacement
• NICE NG226: Osteoarthritis

This article provides general information. Individual diagnosis and treatment require a clinical assessment.