Dr Vertullo specialises in rapid-recovery knee replacement surgery, using advanced techniques.

With this approach, most patients are able to walk on the same day as surgery and typically stay in hospital only 1–2 days. In most cases, the replacement can be performed through a anterolateral skin incision, which may improve the ability to kneel comfortably after recovery and reduce skin numbness compared to a traditional midline incision.

What is Knee Replacement?

Knee replacement is one of the most effective procedures for relieving pain and improving function in people with severe knee arthritis. The surgery involves carefully reshaping (“chamfering”) thin slices from the end of the femur (thigh bone) and tibia (shin bone) so that the new implant fits precisely.

The implant is positioned using specialised instruments, with computer navigation now regarded as the gold standard for achieving accuracy. Robotic-assisted systems and patient-specific instruments are also available, although computer navigation continues to have the longest track record of proven success.

Depending on the pattern of arthritis:

Alternatives Before Surgery

Not all patients with knee arthritis need immediate replacement. Non-operative options such as exercise therapy, medications, bracing, and injections may provide relief. In selected younger patients, joint preservation techniques such as osteotomy or cartilage restoration may also be considered before knee replacement.  

A knee replacement involves chamfering the end of the femur & tibia to match the implant. Only very thin slices from the end of the bone are removed.  Typically special instruments are used to guide the surgeon during this process, typically using a computer navigation or Guided Arm (robotic systems) or Patient Specific Instruments.

High Flexion Knee Replacement

High Flexion Knee Replacement

Outcomes and Longevity

Knee replacement is highly successful at relieving pain and restoring mobility. The Australian Orthopaedic Association National Joint Replacement Registry (AOANJRR) consistently reports excellent long-term outcomes. Clinical studies show:

  • About 97 out of 100 knee replacements are still functioning at 10–15 years after surgery.

  • With modern techniques and materials (cross-linked polyethylene, computer navigation, cruciate-retaining design, cemented fixation), survivorship is approaching 98% at 12 years.

  • Many implants last 20–30 years, meaning for most people a knee replacement will last for the rest of their life.

  • Some knee replacements have better survivourship than others, with the AOANJRR research identifying the “Optimal Style” of knee replacement as one which is minimally stabilised, has a cemented tibia, a resurfaced patella and highly crossed linked polyethylene.

Revision

If the prosthesis becomes loose or breaks, another operation known  as a revision, is necessary. This involves the replacement of your prosthesis. In general, knee prostheses last longer in older and lighter people. See here for more information on Revision TKR.