What is total knee replacement?
The knee joint has three compartments — the inner (medial), outer (lateral), and the area behind the kneecap (patellofemoral). In total knee replacement, the worn cartilage surfaces of all three compartments are resurfaced with metal and plastic implants. The bone is preserved; only the damaged surface is replaced.
The result is a smooth, stable joint that can move without the grinding, stiffness and pain caused by worn cartilage. For most patients with advanced knee arthritis, total knee replacement reliably reduces pain and restores function.
Total knee replacement is typically considered when knee arthritis is affecting daily life and non-surgical treatments — such as physiotherapy, weight management, bracing and injections — are no longer providing adequate relief.
The curved lateral incision
Dr Mooney uses a curved lateral incision — running to the outer side of the kneecap rather than directly across the front of the knee. This differs from the standard midline approach and has three practical advantages:
- Reduced recovery tightness — avoids the tension that a front-of-knee scar creates during healing
- Less noticeable numbness — any sensory change is to the outer side of the scar, not across the front of the knee
- Better chance of kneeling — patients report a higher rate of comfortable kneeling after recovery
Dr Mooney uses the Stryker MAKO robotic system for most knee replacements to improve the accuracy of implant positioning. See the Robotic Knee Replacement page for more detail.
What to expect after surgery
Day 1–2Physiotherapy begins. Walking with a frame. Discharge within 2–3 days for most patients.
Week 2–4Walking with a stick. Swelling easing. Physiotherapy continuing.
Week 4–6Most daily tasks independently. Driving when comfortable and leg control has returned.
6 weeksFollow-up with Dr Mooney. X-rays reviewed.
3 monthsReturn to most daily activities. Swimming and stationary cycling.
6–12 monthsFull recovery typically reached at 12 months.
