Arthritis affects the glistening white surface of your knee joint. When the joint surface is worn out completely this exposes the bare bone underneath which usually becomes very painful.  

Total knee replacement consists of excising the worn out joint surfaces of the bottom  end of your thigh bone and top end of your shin bone and replacing them with the metal components which are generally fixed with the help of the bone cement. This may also include resurfacing of your knee cap as well if it is significantly worn out.

Total knee replacement is a very successful operation. With modern implant design and improved surgical techniques the success rate is quoted to be 80-90% .

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With the improved technology and surgical techniques modern knee replacements should last for 10-15 years and may be even longer. However if you have it in younger age it may wear out earlier because of generally, the higher functional demands in this age group.

If you have significant pain that is affecting your quality of life, your X-ray shows significant arthritis and your pain is not under control with the other measures then you may decide to go for the knee replacement. The alternative and less invasive options are reducing weight, exercises, pain killers and walking aids. You can also try steroid injections but effect is variable and usually short lasting. 

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When you come for the  consultation I normally discuss the various treatment options, their risks and benefits with you, which will help you to make an informed decision about your care. 

Useful links -

https://www.boa.ac.uk/static/uploaded/b49d09f6-f355-40f5-97a1a8b5e188f9df.pdf

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https://www.rcseng.ac.uk/patient-care/recovering-from-surgery/total-knee-replacement/