How Long Do Knee Replacements Last?
Q: I need knee replacement surgery. How long do knee replacements last?
A: Modern total knee replacements last about 10 years.
The knee is replaced with metal and plastic (called polyethylene). It's the polyethylene that can wear out, resulting in a "loose" prosthesis.
How long a replacement lasts depends on several factors. They tend to last longer in:
- Women
- Older people
- People who are less heavy
- People who put less physical stress on their knees after surgery
On average, 95% of people with total knee replacements will have good function and no need for repeat surgery for 10 years. At 15 years, 80% of the replaced knees will have survived without needing any surgery.
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