How severe is the pain after the operation?

The first few days and weeks are demanding — the knee reacts more sensitively than, for example, the hip. However, with a graduated pain management plan, the discomfort is well controllable, and it decreases week by week.

How long does rehabilitation take?

You should expect several weeks of intensive rehabilitation and subsequent training. The knee is often suitable for everyday activities after two to three months; the final result develops over six to twelve months.

Partial or total replacement — which is better?

That depends on which sections of the joint are worn: if only one side is affected, a partial replacement may suffice and often feels more natural. Your orthopaedic surgeon will assess what is possible in your case based on the images.

How long does a knee prosthesis last?

Modern knee prostheses frequently last 15 to 20 years, often longer. If loosening occurs in old age, revision surgery is possible.

Can I kneel and play sport with the prosthesis?

Cycling, hiking, swimming and golf are usually well tolerated; kneeling is permitted but remains uncomfortable for many. Stop-and-go sports with high impact loads are generally not recommended.

When may I drive again?

Usually after four to six weeks, when you can control your leg safely and brake firmly — for the right knee rather later than for the left. Discuss the timing at your follow-up appointment.

Knee Replacement — Procedure, Preparation & Cost

When the cartilage in the knee joint has largely worn away due to arthritis, every step hurts — and eventually physiotherapy and injections no longer provide sufficient relief. An artificial knee joint replaces the worn joint surfaces with metal and plastic components; depending on the extent of damage, as a partial or total replacement. The goal is a largely pain-free, resilient knee for everyday life.

Typical Areas of Use

Advanced osteoarthritis of the knee
Pain on weight-bearing and increasingly at rest in the knee
Instability and axial malalignment (bow legs or knock knees) due to wear
Significantly limited walking distance despite conservative treatment

How It Works

1Following planning consultations, X-rays and the anaesthetic appointment, the prosthesis is precisely planned for your knee — as a partial replacement if only one section of the joint is affected, otherwise as a total replacement.
2During the procedure under general or regional anaesthesia, the worn joint surfaces are removed with millimetre precision and replaced by the prosthetic components; a plastic insert takes over the gliding function.
3Physiotherapy begins on the day of surgery or the following day with initial steps and bending exercises — early mobilisation improves the outcome.
4After a few days in hospital, rehabilitation follows, either inpatient or outpatient, with consistent training of mobility and strength over several weeks.

How to Prepare

Discuss medications and blood thinners at the anaesthetic appointment; infections — including dental infections — should be treated before the operation.
If possible, strengthen your leg and core muscles before the procedure; this will pay off during rehabilitation.
Adapt your home: non-slip pathways, no loose rugs, important items within easy reach.
Plan for the time after hospital: rehabilitation, household support, transport.

Side Effects & Risks

Swelling, bruising and wound pain in the first few weeks — often more pronounced with the knee than with the hip.
Rarely, prosthetic infections requiring thorough, sometimes surgical, treatment.
Thrombosis and embolism; as a preventive measure, you will receive blood-thinning medication temporarily.
Restricted movement due to scarring if bending is not consistently practised.
A small proportion of patients are not fully satisfied with the outcome — realistic expectations are part of good preparation.

Afterwards — and When to Seek Help

The most important task after the operation is practice: the daily physiotherapy exercises for bending and straightening are crucial to the final outcome. Swelling and a feeling of warmth can persist for weeks to months — cooling and elevating helps. Walking sticks will accompany you in the first few weeks. Contact your doctor promptly if the wound weeps or becomes very red, if you develop a fever, if the knee suddenly becomes much more painful, or if your calf swells and hurts. And in future, inform your doctor about the prosthesis if you have any significant infections.

Cost & Insurance

Knee replacement is covered by basic insurance when medically indicated, including a stay in the general ward of a hospital on the cantonal list in your canton of residence; the deductible and co-payment apply as usual. Medically prescribed rehabilitation — inpatient with cost approval or outpatient — as well as the subsequent physiotherapy sessions are also covered by basic insurance. Semi-private or private wards and free choice of hospital require supplementary insurance. If in doubt, consult your insurer — no guarantee.

Frequently Asked Questions

How severe is the pain after the operation?: The first few days and weeks are demanding — the knee reacts more sensitively than, for example, the hip. However, with a graduated pain management plan, the discomfort is well controllable, and it decreases week by week.
How long does rehabilitation take?: You should expect several weeks of intensive rehabilitation and subsequent training. The knee is often suitable for everyday activities after two to three months; the final result develops over six to twelve months.
Partial or total replacement — which is better?: That depends on which sections of the joint are worn: if only one side is affected, a partial replacement may suffice and often feels more natural. Your orthopaedic surgeon will assess what is possible in your case based on the images.
How long does a knee prosthesis last?: Modern knee prostheses frequently last 15 to 20 years, often longer. If loosening occurs in old age, revision surgery is possible.
Can I kneel and play sport with the prosthesis?: Cycling, hiking, swimming and golf are usually well tolerated; kneeling is permitted but remains uncomfortable for many. Stop-and-go sports with high impact loads are generally not recommended.
When may I drive again?: Usually after four to six weeks, when you can control your leg safely and brake firmly — for the right knee rather later than for the left. Discuss the timing at your follow-up appointment.