Knee Replacement

benefits of knee replacement surgery;

• Relief from Pain: One of the primary benefits of knee replacement surgery is relief from chronic knee pain. The procedure addresses conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and other degenerative joint diseases that cause persistent pain.

• Restored Joint Function: Damaged knee joints can result in difficulty walking, climbing stairs, and getting up from a seated position. Knee replacement surgery restores normal joint function, making these activities easier.

• Reduced Stiffness: Before surgery, stiff and painful knees can make movement challenging. After knee replacement, stiffness is minimized, and patients experience a smoother, more fluid range of motion.

• Long-Lasting Relief: Knee replacement surgery provides long-term relief from chronic knee pain. Many patients experience benefits that can last for decades, depending on their age, activity level, and overall health.

• Better Joint Alignment: Knee replacement surgery can correct misalignment in the knee joint, improving weight distribution and reducing the risk of further joint damage.

• Reduced Medication Dependency: Many patients find that they can reduce or eliminate the need for pain medications after knee replacement surgery, leading to fewer side effects and a more comfortable lifestyle.

• Improved Joint Stability: The artificial joint provides stability to the knee, which can be particularly beneficial for patients with severe joint damage or ligament instability.

• Customized Implants: Advances in medical technology have led to the development of personalized implants that better match each patient's anatomy, resulting in improved joint function.

• Shorter Hospital Stays: Many knee replacement surgeries are now performed using minimally invasive techniques, leading to shorter hospital stays and quicker recovery times.

What are the top 5 Orthopedic Surgery hospitals in India?

• Manipal Hospitals

• Max Hospital

• Apollo Hospital

• BLK Hospital

• Jaypee Hospital

Pre-Surgery

• • Evaluation: The patient undergoes a thorough medical evaluation, including X-rays, MRI scans, and physical examinations, to assess the extent of knee joint damage and to determine if knee replacement is appropriate.

  • Decision-Making: The patient and their orthopedic surgeon discuss the benefits, risks, and expected outcomes of knee replacement. They also consider the patient's overall health, medical history, and lifestyle factors.

Knee Replacement Procedure

• • Anesthesia: The patient is given anesthesia to ensure they are pain-free and unconscious during the surgery. The anesthesia options include general anesthesia (unconscious) or spinal/epidural anesthesia (lower body numbness).

  • Incision: The surgeon makes an incision over the knee joint, exposing the damaged bone and cartilage.

  • Reshaping Bones: The damaged portions of the thigh bone (femur) and shinbone (tibia) are removed, and their surfaces are reshaped to accommodate the prosthetic components.

  • Implantation: The artificial knee joint components, made of metal and plastic, are inserted into the prepared bone surfaces. These components may be cemented or press-fit into place.

  • Patellar Resurfacing: In some cases, the back of the kneecap (patella) may also be resurfaced with a plastic button to improve its gliding function.

  • Closure: The incision is closed with sutures or staples, and a bandage or dressing is applied.

Post-Surgery

• • Recovery: After the surgery, the patient is moved to a recovery room and closely monitored. Pain management and physical therapy begin soon after the procedure to aid in rehabilitation.

  • Hospital Stay: The length of hospital stay varies depending on the patient's condition and the type of knee replacement performed. It usually ranges from a few days to a week.

  • Rehabilitation: Physical therapy and exercises are an essential part of the recovery process. They help strengthen the muscles around the knee, improve mobility, and facilitate a safe return to daily activities.