Knee replacement surgery can usually take two forms: total knee replacement (TKR) surgery and partial knee replacement (PKR) surgery. It often has a very positive impact on a person’s life as it can significantly improve mobility. Those undergoing knee replacement surgery may be able to take part in activities they may not have been able to before the operation. 

This type of surgery is otherwise known as arthroplasty and involves using an artificial joint to replace a knee that has been damaged, become worn or been affected by a disease. It is a fairly common operation, usually administered to those over the age of 65. 

TKR surgery involves the replacement of both sides of the knee joint, while PKR surgery involves the replacement of just one side. Undergoing TKR will usually lead to a longer hospital stay and recovery period compared to PKR. 

While most procedures are carried out successfully, a significant proportion of patients are subject to mistakes made by medical professionals before, during or after the surgery. 

Find out more about knee replacement surgery by visiting the NHS website.

If the surgery is performed negligently and not to the required standard of care, this can lead to the patient suffering from a range of different health problems. These can include: 

• Infection 
• Limited mobility 
• Severe pain 
• Stiffness in the knee 
• Damage around the knee joint, including to the nerves, ligaments or arteries 
• Deep vein thrombosis 
• Blood clots 
• Unexpected bleeding to the knee joint 

Mistakes made during knee replacement surgery can clearly have a huge impact on the life of the victim, potentially even leading to long-term disability. They can also leave you facing significant costs that, without the aid of compensation, you may struggle to pay. These can include: 

• Further medical treatment 
• Physiotherapy 
• Alternative transport arrangements 

Seeking compensation can improve your quality of life considerably after experiencing medical negligence.