1 Farrer Park Station Road, #12-03, Farrer Park Medical Centre, Singapore 217562 (65) 6443 7713 
Knee osteoarthritis is a condition whereby there is cartilage degeneration in the knee joint. The cartilage composition of the knee consists of cartilage lining of the femoral surface, tibial surface and fibrocartilage which is called the meniscus. These structures together with the ligaments work in concert to enable the patient to run, jump as well as sit cross-legged and do physical activities beyond daily living i.e. sporting activities. When there is a disturbance to the cartilage from injuries such as twisting injuries to the knee or in trauma from road traffic accident there will be significant amount of pain due to bone irritation from the loss of cartilage. In such patients they present with knee pain, swelling as well as instability. If the condition is compounded by ligament laxity the condition can deteriorate very rapidly.
Patient having difficulty walking due to severe knee osteoarthritis
With both inflammatory and degenerative conditions the articular bearing is often affected. This leads to instability pain and crepitus (noises with knee bending). In such situation walking becomes difficult. Rheumatoid arthritis can affect patients as young as 32 who have undergone knee replacement due to failure of medical treatment to improve their quality of life. Dr Sathappan oldest patient is 88 years old.
In knee replacement, depending on the status of knee it can either be partial or total. Using the aid of computer or robotics increases the precision and decreases the likelihood of injury to soft tissue. This minimally invasive technique allows patient to walk early and return to all functional activities much quicker then conventional techniques.
Replacement is using optimal biomaterials that provide longevity in excess of 15-25 years. Such materials are durable and permit optimal functional kinematics.
Following surgery his physiotherapist will guide the post-operative rehabilitation process with good quadriceps and hamstring strengthening exercises.
Patient able to perform high flexion activities following bilateral total knee replacement
