Knee Replacement Surgery

Knee Replacement Surgery Meaning

Knee replacement surgery, also known as knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure to replace the damaged surfaces of the knee joint with an artificial joint. The artificial joint is designed to move like a healthy human joint. It is a common and effective treatment for severe arthritis of the knee. An orthopedic surgeon typically performs the surgery.

Knee replacement surgery is typically recommended when:

• Severe knee pain interferes with daily activities.

• Pain medication and other non-surgical treatments have not provided adequate relief.

• Knee joint damage is causing significant stiffness and loss of mobility.

• Knee pain is disrupting sleep and quality of life.

• Knee pain is causing emotional distress.

• Knee deformity (a bowing in or out of the knee)

The four main types of knee replacement surgery are: 

1. Total knee replacement (TKR): This is the most common type of knee replacement surgery. In a TKR, the entire joint surface of the knee is replaced with artificial components. This includes the end of the thighbone (femur), the top of the shinbone (tibia), and the kneecap (patella). The artificial components are made of metal and plastic, and they are designed to mimic the natural movement of the knee joint.

2. Unicompartmental (partial) knee replacement: This is also known as a partial knee replacement. In a UKA, only one compartment of the knee is replaced with artificial components. This is typically the medial compartment, which is the inner side of the knee. A UKA is a good option for people who have arthritis in only one compartment of their knee.

3. Kneecap replacement (patellofemoral arthroplasty - PFA): This is a type of knee replacement surgery that replaces the kneecap (patella) and the groove in the thighbone (femur) where the patella moves. A PFA is a good option for people who have arthritis in the patellofemoral joint, which is the joint between the patella and the femur.

4. Complex or revision knee replacement:  This is a type of knee replacement surgery that is performed on a knee that has already had a knee replacement surgery. Complex or revision knee replacement surgery is more complex than primary knee replacement surgery, and it may require the use of specialized implants or techniques.

Pre-operative Phase

The pre-operative phase involves preparing for the surgery and ensuring that you are in good health to undergo the procedure. This phase typically includes:

1. Consultation with your doctor

2. Medical clearance: If you have any underlying medical conditions, such as heart disease, lung disease, or diabetes, you may need to see your doctor to get medical clearance for surgery.

3. Pre-operative testing: You may need to undergo pre-operative testing, such as blood tests, an electrocardiogram (ECG), and a chest X-ray, to ensure that you are in good health for surgery.

4. Medication adjustments: Your doctor may need to adjust your medications, such as blood thinners or pain relievers, before surgery.

5. Physical therapy: You may start physical therapy before surgery to strengthen the muscles around your knee joint and improve your range of motion.

6. Home preparation: Make arrangements for someone to help you with daily activities after surgery, such as cooking, cleaning, and bathing. You may also want to make some adjustments to your home, such as installing grab bars and removing clutter, to make it easier to get around.

During the Surgery

Knee replacement surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia, which means that you will be asleep during the procedure. The surgery usually takes about 1-2 hours. During the surgery, the surgeon will:

1. Make an incision: The surgeon will make an incision in your knee, typically about 8-10 inches long.

2. Remove damaged cartilage and bone: The surgeon will remove the damaged cartilage and bone from the end of your thighbone (femur), the top of your shinbone (tibia), and the underside of your kneecap (patella).

3. Position the implant: The surgeon will position the artificial components (implant) in your knee joint. The implant is typically made of metal and plastic.

4. Close the incision: The surgeon will close the incision with stitches or staples.

Post-operative Phase

The post-operative phase involves recovering from the surgery and regaining your mobility and function. This phase typically includes:

1. Pain management: You will receive pain medication to manage pain after surgery.

2. Physical therapy: You will start physical therapy within a few days of surgery to help you regain your range of motion, strengthen the muscles around your knee joint, and learn exercises to do at home.

3. Activity restrictions: You will need to avoid strenuous activities for several weeks after surgery.

4. Follow-up appointments: You will have follow-up appointments with your doctor to monitor your progress and ensure that your knee is healing properly.

5. Home rehabilitation: You will continue to do your physical therapy exercises at home and gradually increase your activity level as your knee heals.

6. Return to normal activities: Most people are able to return to their normal activities within 3-6 months after surgery.

Side Effects of Knee Replacement Surgery

The most common risks of knee replacement surgery include:

• Wound Infection

• Blood clots or DVT (deep vein thrombosis)

• Nerve or tissue damage

• Stiffness or loss of motion

• Wear and tear of the implant

Other potential risks of knee replacement surgery include:

• Allergic reaction to the implant

• Fracture

• Excessive bleeding

• Continued pain

Problems with your new knee

• problems bending the knee

• ongoing pain and stiffness

• the knee being unstable when you stand up or walk

Benefits of Knee Replacement Surgery

Knee replacement surgery can help with: 

• Pain relief

• Improved mobility

• Better quality of life

• Reduced complications

• Improved work performance

Recovery time from knee replacement surgery can vary depending on individual factors such as age, overall health, and the type of surgery performed. However, the general timeline for recovery is as follows:

Days 1-3: Most people are able to go home from the hospital within a few days of surgery. However, they will need to use a walker or crutches and may have significant pain and swelling.

Weeks 1-4: During this time, patients will focus on pain management, range of motion exercises, and strengthening exercises. They may also start using a cane instead of a walker or crutches.

Weeks 4-6: Most people are able to return to work or light activities during this time. They may still have some pain and swelling, but they should be able to walk without assistance.

Weeks 6-12: Patients continue to regain strength and range of motion during this time. They may be able to start resuming more strenuous activities, such as swimming or low-impact exercise.

Months 3-6: Most people have made a full recovery by 6 months after surgery. They should be able to walk without pain, climb stairs, and resume most of their normal activities.

Here are some additional tips for speeding up recovery from knee replacement surgery:

• Follow your doctor's instructions carefully: This includes taking your medications as prescribed, attending physical therapy sessions, and avoiding activities that your doctor has restricted.

• Ice and elevation: Apply ice to your knee for 20-30 minutes at a time, several times a day. Elevating your knee above your heart can also help reduce swelling.

• Compression: Wear a compression bandage or sleeve to help reduce swelling.

• Regular exercise: Continue to do your physical therapy exercises at home. You can also start to add other low-impact exercises, such as walking, swimming, or yoga.

• Maintain a healthy weight: Being overweight or obese can put extra strain on your knee joint. Losing even a small amount of weight can help improve your recovery.

• Don't rush your recovery: It takes time to heal from knee replacement surgery. Be patient and don't try to do too much too soon.

The cost of knee replacement surgery in Delhi can vary depending on several factors, including the type of surgery, the hospital, and the surgeon's experience. However, the average cost of knee replacement surgery in Delhi is between ₹1,80,000 to ₹4,50,000. This includes the cost of the surgery itself, as well as the cost of hospitalization, anesthesia, medications, and physical therapy.

Here is a breakdown of the approximate costs of knee replacement surgery in Delhi: