Knee Replacement Surgery

Get back to what you love with expert knee replacement care

Living with knee pain can make even the simplest activities feel difficult. If walking, climbing stairs or getting in and out of a chair has become painful, you don’t have to live this way. At Banner Health, we offer comprehensive care for knee replacement patients from imaging to surgery to recovery and rehabilitation. 

Our expert orthopedic team perform thousands of joint replacement procedures each year to reduce pain, restore function and improve your quality of life. We provide a full range of options - including the latest robot-assisted and minimally invasive techniques - personalized to your needs. With high success rates, shorter recovery times and a compassionate team by your side, we’re here to help you take the first step toward living pain-free again.

What is knee replacement surgery? 

How it works

Knee replacement surgery, also called arthroplasty (joint replacement), involves removing damaged parts of the knee joint and replacing them with an artificial joint made of metal and plastic. This artificial knee is designed to move like a natural joint, helping you walk, bend and return to everyday activities with less pain.

Causes of knee joint damage

Knee replacement may be needed due to:

• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Previous injuries or fractures
• Long-term wear and tear

These conditions can cause stiffness, pain and limited mobility that doesn’t improve with other treatments.

Signs you may need knee replacement

If joint pain is keeping you from the activities you enjoy, it may be time to talk with an orthopedic specialist.

Common symptoms of knee joint problems

You may be a candidate for knee replacement if you experience:

• Persistent knee pain that limits daily activities
• Difficulty climbing stairs, walking or standing for long periods
• Stiffness that makes it hard to bend or straighten the knee
• Pain that doesn’t improve with medications, injections or physical therapy

Not sure if surgery is right for you? Schedule a consultation with a Banner orthopedic expert today.

Support for knee replacement surgery at Banner Health

If you’re planning knee replacement surgery, our orthopedic nurse navigators are here to support you every step of the way. From pre-surgery planning to walking confidently again, we’ll help you stay informed and prepared.

What a nurse navigator does for knee surgery

Our orthopedic nurse navigators are registered nurses who specialize in joint care. They help you understand the process, manage recovery and connect with helpful resources throughout your journey.

How our nurse navigators support you

• Explain your knee replacement care plan and recovery timeline
• Provide education on mobility, physical therapy and home safety
• Communicate with your doctors and coordinate your care
• Help connect you with community support services and tools

Types of knee replacement surgery 

There are two main types of surgery, and our orthopedic specialists will help you decide which is best based on your condition and lifestyle.

• Partial knee replacement: This surgery replaces only the damaged part of the knee, preserving healthy bone and cartilage. It may be right for you if the damage is limited to one area of the joint.
• Total knee replacement: This option replaces the entire knee joint. It’s often recommended for patients with widespread joint damage from arthritis or injury.

We’ll help you choose the most effective option based on your individual needs.

Advanced and minimally invasive knee replacement options

At Banner Health, we offer the latest in surgical care, including minimally invasive and muscle-sparing techniques. These procedures use smaller incisions and are designed to protect surrounding tissues.

Benefits of minimally invasive surgery include:

• Less pain after surgery
• Smaller scars
• Shorter hospital stays
• Faster recovery and return to daily life

We also use robotic-assisted technology and 3D imaging tools to improve accuracy and joint alignment - so your new knee feels more natural.

Ask your surgeon if you’re a candidate for minimally invasive or robot-assisted knee replacement.

What to expect on the day of surgery 

On the day of your procedure, our care team will walk you through every step. You'll anesthesia to keep you comfortable and your surgery will typically last one to two hours.

After surgery, you'll be moved to a recovery room. Depending on your specific procedure and needs, you may stay in the hospital for a day or two - or return home the same day. Your care team will explain what to expect and how to recover safely.

Recovery after knee replacement surgery

Healing takes time, but Banner Health is here to support your recovery every step of the way.

• Managing pain and preventing complications: Your doctor will prescribe medications to reduce pain and inflammation. You may also take blood thinners to prevent clots. Follow your care plan closely to support healing.
• Physical therapy and movement: Physical therapy is key to recovery. You’ll start with gentle exercises and gradually build strength and mobility. Our therapists will guide you at each stage of progress.
• Using walking aids and climbing stairs: A walker or cane may be needed at first. With therapy, most people return to climbing stairs and walking without support within a few weeks.
• Bathing and wound care: Keep your incision clean and dry. Your care team will let you know when it’s safe to shower - typically within a few days.

Our team will help you recover faster with personalized care and support.

Risks and complications of knee replacement

Like any surgery, knee replacement has risks. At Banner Health, we take steps to prevent and manage complications.

Common risks include:

• Blood clots: Movement, medications and compression tools can help prevent them.
• Infection: Keeping the wound clean and following discharge instructions lowers your risk.
• Stiffness: Physical therapy helps reduce this risk.
• Wear or loosening of the joint: This may happen over time but is less common with modern implants.

Your surgeon will walk you through any risks and answer your questions to help you feel confident in your care.

Long-term outlook after knee replacement

Knee replacement is one of the most successful orthopedic surgeries available. Most patients report:

• Significant pain relief
• Better mobility
• Ability to return to walking, climbing stairs and low-impact activities

How long does a knee replacement last?

Many artificial joints last 15 to 20 years or more. With proper care and regular checkups, you can enjoy long-term results and a more active life.

Knee revision surgery: When is a second procedure needed?

Sometimes a knee replacement needs to be revised due to wear, infection or instability. Knee revision surgery replaces or repairs the existing artificial joint to restore function.

If you’re experiencing pain after a previous knee surgery, our orthopedic team can evaluate your options and provide the right solution.

Don’t wait - relief may be possible with expert care from Banner Health.

Why choose Banner Health for knee replacement? 

At Banner Health, we’re committed to helping you live with less pain and more freedom. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Advanced surgical options, including minimally invasive and robotic-assisted procedures
• Specialized orthopedic care teams with years of joint replacement experience
• Personalized recovery plans and physical therapy
• State-of-the-art technology and facilities

From your first consultation to full recovery, our team is here to provide compassionate, expert care tailored to you.

Take the first step toward pain relief 

If knee pain is interfering with your life, knee replacement surgery at Banner Health may be the solution. Don’t wait to feel better. 

Schedule a consultation or call us today to learn more about your options. We’re here to help you get back to doing the things you love - with less pain and more confidence.