Knee replacement surgery, also called knee arthroplasty, is a common orthopaedic procedure. It involves replacing a damaged or worn-out knee joint with an artificial implant. In India, the demand for knee replacement surgeries is rising. This is due to many factors. These include an aging population, more arthritis, and lifestyle-related conditions. This blog post is a guide to knee replacement surgery in India. It covers the reasons, types, prep, surgery, recovery, and finding a provider.
What is Knee Replacement Surgery?
Knee replacement surgery removes the damaged parts of the knee joint. It swaps them out for synthetic metal, plastic, or ceramic pieces. The surgery aims to reduce pain and improve mobility. It also aims to better the lives of patients with severe knee conditions.
Reasons for Knee Replacement Surgery:
The following are the most typical causes of knee replacement surgery:
- Osteoarthritis: It is a degenerative joint disease. It causes the knee’s cartilage to wear down over time.
- Rheumatoid arthritis: It is an autoimmune disorder. It can cause inflammation and damage to the knee joint.
- Knee injuries: Severe injuries, like fractures or ligament tears, can cause lasting damage and deformity. They require knee replacement.
- Knee deformities: They are either congenital or developmental. They affect the knee joint’s alignment and function.
Types of Knee Replacement Surgery:
There are two primary surgical procedures for knee replacements:
- Total Knee Replacement (TKR): It replaces both the femur (thigh bone) and tibia (shin bone) surfaces of the knee joint.
- Partial Knee Replacement (PKR): It is also called unicompartmental knee replacement. It entails merely replacing the knee joint’s damaged portion. The healthy parts are preserved.
Preparing for Knee Replacement Surgery in India:
Before knee replacement surgery in India, patients will have tests. The tests will determine if they are suitable for the procedure. Preparation may include:
- Physical examination and medical history evaluation
- Imaging tests (X-rays, MRI, CT scans) to assess the extent of joint damage
- Blood tests to check for any underlying conditions
- Optimization of any existing medical conditions (e.g., diabetes, heart disease)
- Instructions for pre-operative care, such as fasting and medication adjustments
The Surgical Procedure:
In India, knee replacement surgery is typically done under general or regional anesthesia. Regional anesthesia can be spinal or epidural. The surgeon will cut the knee. They will remove the damaged joint parts and replace them with artificial ones. The procedure can take anywhere from 1 to 3 hours, depending on the complexity of the case.
Recovery and Rehabilitation:
After the surgery, patients will need to stay in the hospital for a few days. They will be there for monitoring and the start of recovery. Managing pain and preventing complications are crucial. Complications include blood clots and infections.
Rehabilitation is vital in recovery. It helps patients regain strength, mobility, and motion. Therapy may start the day after surgery. It will last for weeks or months. Patients may need to use assistive devices. These include walkers or canes. They need them during the initial recovery period.
Finding the Right Surgeon and Hospital in India:
Choosing the right surgeon and hospital for knee replacement surgery in India is key. It is crucial for a successful outcome. Factors to consider include:
- Experience and expertise of the orthopaedic surgeon in performing knee replacements
- Accreditation and reputation of the hospital or healthcare facility
- Availability of advanced surgical techniques and technologies
- Post-operative care and rehabilitation services
- Patient testimonials and success rates
In India, many hospitals and orthopaedic centers offer top facilities. They have experienced surgeons for knee replacements. Thorough research, seeking recommendations, and consulting with healthcare professionals can help patients. With this information, they may decide with knowledge.
By understanding the process, preparation, and recovery in knee replacement surgery in India, patients can navigate it better. It leads to improved mobility and a better life.