Knee Surgery

Total Knee Replacement

Total knee replacement replaces damaged cartilage and bone surfaces with premium biocompatible implants. Combined with Dr. Sobh's advanced pain management and rapid-recovery protocols, total knee arthroplasty restores joint function and eliminates chronic knee pain.

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On This Page

Recovery

Comprehensive physical therapy program; substantial motion and strength restoration in 2-4 weeks.

Clinical Focus

Quad-sparing minimally invasive entry, alignment restoration, durable modern bearing surfaces.

Ideal Candidate

Patients experiencing severe joint pain, bowing, and mobility restriction resistant to conservative therapy.

Understanding Your Procedure

In-Depth: Total Knee Replacement

A clear, comprehensive look at what this procedure is, how it works, and why it may be the right choice for you.

(total knee ) is one of the most successful and reliable operations in all of orthopedic surgery. It resurfaces all three compartments of the knee—the medial, lateral, and patellofemoral—when arthritis has damaged the entire joint. The damaged cartilage and a thin layer of bone are removed from the , , and , and replaced with metal and medical-grade plastic components that recreate a smooth, pain-free joint surface.Dr. Sobh uses a quad-sparing approach, meaning the and muscle are not cut to access the joint. Instead, the joint is accessed through a minimally invasive incision that mobilizes the quadriceps without dividing it. This dramatically reduces post-operative pain, speeds up quadriceps recovery, and allows patients to achieve active straight-leg raise and full much sooner than with traditional approaches.The success of depends heavily on two factors: precise alignment and ligament balance. Dr. Sobh uses advanced techniques—including MAKO robotic assistance when appropriate—to ensure the is aligned to your unique mechanical axis and that your ligaments are balanced through the full . This attention to balance is what produces a knee that feels stable and natural, not stiff or unstable.

Total Knee Replacement anatomical illustration

Total Knee Replacement — illustrated overview of the surgical approach and implant placement.

20-30+

Years Implant Lifespan

90%+

Patient Satisfaction

24h

Walking Post-Op

<1%

Complication Rate

What Makes This Approach Different

Quad-Sparing Technique

The is not cut, preserving the thigh muscle's function and dramatically reducing pain and recovery time compared to traditional approaches.

Multimodal Pain Protocol

A combination of nerve blocks, long-acting local anesthetics, and non-opioid medications keeps patients comfortable while minimizing or eliminating the need for opioids.

Mechanical Axis Alignment

Dr. Sobh restores your leg's mechanical axis—the line of weight-bearing from hip to ankle—correcting bowing or knock-knee deformity that has developed from arthritis.

Premium Implant Selection

Modern implants with improved bearing surfaces and design allow for natural knee kinematics, including deep knee bend and 'female-friendly' designs that accommodate narrower femurs.

Clinical information reviewed and edited by Dr. Ali H. Sobh, MD, board-certified orthopedic surgeon. Content synthesized from peer-reviewed orthopedic literature, American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) guidelines, and Dr. Sobh's fellowship training at Rush University Medical Center. Last updated 2025.

Watch & Learn

Understanding Total Knee Replacement

These medically accurate 3D animations walk you through the surgical procedure step by step — from incision to implant placement — so you know exactly what happens during your surgery.

3D Animation2:08 min

Total Knee Replacement Surgery

A concise 3D medical animation from Nucleus Health showing each surgical step: incision, exposure of the arthritic joint, removal of damaged bone, placement of the femoral and tibial prostheses, and closure.

Source: Nucleus Medical Media — peer-reviewed patient education

Detailed Walkthrough11:15 min

Complete Surgical Procedure Animation

An in-depth 3D animation covering preoperative preparation, detailed surgical steps from incision to implantation, and postoperative care insights including physical therapy and rehabilitation tips.

Source: Understand — medical education channel, 1.1M+ views

How Dr. Sobh's approach may differ

These animations show a standard total knee replacement. Dr. Sobh may use advanced techniques such as robotic-assisted surgery (MAKO), minimally invasive approaches, or customized implant positioning based on your unique anatomy. Your specific surgical plan will be discussed in detail during your consultation.

Videos embedded from YouTube for educational purposes. Dr. Dr. Ali H. Sobh, MD reviews all educational content on this page. Animation sources: Nucleus Medical Media and Understand (medical education). Procedure techniques may vary based on surgeon preference and patient anatomy.

Interactive Education

See How Your Joint Works

Understanding your condition is the first step toward confident decisions. Use this interactive visualizer to explore the anatomy of the knee joint, compare a healthy joint with an arthritic one, and see exactly what total knee replacement restores.

1
Toggle states to compare healthy, arthritic, and post-surgical joints.
2
Tap the dots to learn about each anatomical structure.
3
Watch the motion to see how the joint moves during activity.

Interactive Joint Visualizer

Explore how total knee replacement works

For Education

Front View

100%

Tap the dots to explore the joint anatomy

Arthritic / Damaged

Illustration for educational purposes. Not a diagnostic image.

Recognizing the Signs

Common Symptoms

Many patients live with joint pain for years before seeking treatment. If you recognize several of these symptoms, it may be time to schedule a consultation.

When to seek care

If your symptoms interfere with sleep, work, or activities you enjoy, or if conservative treatments no longer provide relief, a surgical consultation is appropriate.

Severe, constant knee pain that limits daily activities like walking or climbing stairs

Visible bowing or knock-knee deformity

Knee stiffness that prevents full bending or straightening

Swelling and inflammation that does not respond to rest or medication

Instability or the knee 'giving out' during movement

Pain that wakes you from sleep

No relief from conservative treatments—PT, injections, anti-inflammatories

Dr. Ali H. Sobh, MD

Board Certified & Fellowship-Trained Orthopedic Surgeon

Rush University Medical Center Fellowship

Hour Detroit Top Doc Award 2025

900+ 5-Star Google Reviews

Why Dr. Sobh for This Procedure

Fellowship-Trained Expertise in Total Knee Replacement

Dr. Sobh uses a quad-sparing, minimally invasive approach to that protects the thigh muscle during surgery—reducing pain and accelerating recovery. His Rush University fellowship focused on advanced alignment and balancing techniques that ensure the moves naturally with your ligaments. He pairs this with a multimodal pain management protocol (nerve blocks, long-acting anesthetics, and non-opioid medications) so most patients walk within hours of surgery and use minimal or no opioids.

Meet Dr. Sobh Patient Testimonials

Conditions Treated

Is Total Knee Replacement Right for You?

Dr. Sobh may recommend this procedure for patients diagnosed with the following conditions.

Severe knee osteoarthritis (all compartments)Rheumatoid arthritis of the kneePost-traumatic knee arthritisSevere knee deformity or bowingFailed prior knee surgeryAvascular necrosis of the knee

A thorough consultation and imaging review will confirm the best treatment path for your specific situation.

Are You a Candidate?

Candidacy for Total Knee Replacement

Dr. Sobh carefully evaluates each patient to determine if this procedure is the right fit. Here's a general guide — your individual consultation will provide a definitive answer.

Good Candidate

Patients with severe osteoarthritis in two or more knee compartments whose pain has not responded to at least 3-6 months of conservative treatment (PT, injections, NSAIDs, weight management).

Good Candidate

Patients with significant knee deformity (bowing or knock-knee), instability, or loss of range of motion that limits daily activities.

May Not Be a Candidate

Patients with arthritis in only one compartment and an intact ACL may be better served by partial knee replacement, which preserves more native anatomy.

May Not Be a Candidate

Patients with active knee infection, severe vascular disease, or medical conditions that cannot be optimized for surgery need to address those issues first.

Technology & Techniques

Advanced Technology Used in Your Surgery

Dr. Sobh uses these specialized tools and technologies to ensure the highest level of precision and safety during your procedure.

Quad-Sparing Minimally Invasive Approach

A smaller incision and muscle-sparing technique that protects the quadriceps mechanism, reducing pain and accelerating rehabilitation.

Advanced Pain Management Protocol

Pre-operative medications, intra-operative nerve blocks (adductor canal block), and long-acting local anesthetics (Exparel) work together to minimize pain and opioid use.

Computer-Assisted Alignment

Dr. Sobh may use MAKO robotic assistance or computer navigation to ensure the implant is aligned to your unique mechanical axis, optimizing longevity and function.

Premium Implant Bearings

Modern cobalt-chromium and oxidized zirconium femoral components with highly cross-linked polyethylene inserts offer excellent wear resistance and 20+ year longevity.

How the Surgery Works

Understanding Your Surgical Journey

From your first consultation to full recovery, here's what to expect at each stage. Dr. Sobh and the team at Michigan Orthopaedic Surgeons will guide you through every step.

Surgical Planning

size and alignment are planned based on your anatomy. Dr. Sobh uses a quad-sparing, minimally invasive approach to protect your thigh muscle during surgery.

Joint Resurfacing

Damaged cartilage and bone are removed from the , , and . Premium metal and plastic components are cemented in place to recreate a smooth, pain-free joint surface.

Advanced Pain Management

Dr. Sobh uses a multimodal pain protocol—including nerve blocks, long-acting local anesthetics, and non-opioid medications—to keep you comfortable and minimize narcotic use.

Rapid Recovery Protocol

begins the day of surgery. Most patients walk with assistance within hours and are discharged home within 24-48 hours with a structured therapy plan.

Recovery Timeline

Your Path Back to Activity

Recovery timelines vary by individual and procedure complexity. Dr. Sobh will provide a personalized rehabilitation plan. Here's a general guide to what most patients experience.

0-24 hours

Day of Surgery

Stand and walk with a walker. Begin knee bending exercises. Pain managed with Dr. Sobh's multimodal protocol.

1-2 weeks

Early Recovery

Walk with a walker or cane. Physical therapy focuses on knee bend (goal: 90°) and quadriceps strength. Incision heals.

2-6 weeks

Strengthening Phase

Transition off walking aids. Resume driving and office work. Therapy advances to strengthening, balance, and endurance.

6-12 weeks

Full Recovery

Return to walking, golf, swimming, and low-impact activities. Substantial motion and strength restored. Tissue remodeling continues for up to a year.

Comparing Your Options

Total Knee Replacement vs. Alternatives

Understanding how total knee replacement compares to other treatment options helps you make an informed decision. Dr. Sobh will discuss all viable options during your consultation.

Partial Knee Replacement

Partial knee replaces only one compartment and preserves the ACL/PCL. It's an option when arthritis is confined to one compartment, but not suitable when multiple compartments are damaged.

Corticosteroid Injections

Injections can temporarily reduce inflammation but do not reverse arthritis. They may provide weeks to months of relief but eventually lose effectiveness as the arthritis progresses.

Physical Therapy & Bracing

Conservative treatment can strengthen muscles and improve mechanics but cannot restore the lost cartilage. It's appropriate for early arthritis but insufficient for end-stage disease where bone rubs on bone.

Patient Journey Tip

Most total knee patients go home within 24-48 hours. Arrange for a friend or family member to stay with you for the first 3-5 days at home, and set up your recovery space on one floor to avoid stairs during the first week.

Benefits

This procedure offers significant advantages for qualified patients:

Eliminates bone-on-bone knee pain
Restores knee alignment and corrects bowing
Improves walking distance and quality of life
Quad-sparing minimally invasive technique
Advanced pain management reduces opioid use
Durable implants lasting 20+ years

Potential Risks

As with any surgery, there are potential risks. Dr. Sobh takes extensive measures to minimize them:

Infection (rare, <1%)
Blood clots—prevented with medication and early walking
Stiffness or arthrofibrosis (managed with therapy)
Implant loosening or wear over decades
Nerve or blood vessel injury (very rare)
Anesthesia-related risks

Important

This information is for educational purposes only. Your individual risks depend on your health history. Dr. Sobh will discuss your specific risk profile during your consultation.

Patient Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions patients ask about total knee replacement.

How long does a total knee replacement last?

Modern total knee implants are designed to last 20-30 years or more. Dr. Sobh uses premium bearing surfaces and precise alignment to maximize longevity. Factors like weight, activity level, and positioning affect lifespan.

Will I need opioids after surgery?

Dr. Sobh uses an advanced multimodal pain protocol that combines nerve blocks, long-acting local anesthetics, and non-opioid medications. Most patients use minimal or no opioids and transition to over-the-counter pain relievers within 1-2 weeks.

When can I drive after total knee replacement?

Most patients can drive 2-4 weeks after surgery, once they have stopped taking opioid medications and can safely operate the pedals. If the left knee is operated on and you drive an automatic, you may drive sooner.

What activities should I avoid after total knee replacement?

You should avoid high-impact activities like running, jumping, and singles tennis long-term. Walking, golf, swimming, cycling, doubles tennis, and other low-impact activities are encouraged and enjoyable with your new knee.

Medically ReviewedLast reviewed: August 14, 2026

Dr. Ali H. Sobh, MD

Board Certified & Fellowship-Trained Orthopedic Surgeon — Minimally-Invasive Hip & Knee Replacement Specialist

This procedure page was clinically reviewed and approved by Dr. Ali H. Sobh, MD, a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in direct anterior hip replacement and MAKO robotic knee surgery. Dr. Sobh graduated with high honors from Wayne State University School of Medicine and completed his adult reconstruction fellowship at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago. He practices at Michigan Orthopaedic Surgeons (MOS) with offices in Royal Oak and Southfield, Michigan.

View Full Credentials Editorial Standards

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Individual results and recovery timelines vary. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Sobh to discuss your specific condition and treatment options.

Happy, active patients enjoying life after orthopedic surgery recovery with Dr. Ali H. Sobh

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Ready to Take the Next Step?

Schedule a personalized consultation with Dr. Sobh to discuss whether total knee replacement is right for you. Our team will help coordinate your visit, insurance verification, and pre-operative planning.

Book an Appointment Call (833) 667-3627