Orthopedics
Knee Replacement Surgery in India
Knee replacement, also known as knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure to replace the weight-bearing surfaces of the knee joint to relieve pain and disability.
When is Knee Replacement Surgery Required?
Common symptoms and causes that indicate the need for this procedure include:
- Severe joint pain or stiffness that limits everyday activities like walking or climbing stairs
- Chronic knee inflammation and swelling that doesn't improve with rest or medications
- Knee deformity, such as bowing in or out of the joint
- Failure of conservative treatments like physical therapy or cortisone injections
Diagnosis & Evaluation
Before recommending surgery, doctors typically perform the following tests:
- X-Rays to determine the extent of bone damage and joint space narrowing
- MRI scans for detailed views of soft tissues, meniscus, and ligaments
- Blood tests to rule out specific types of inflammatory or rheumatoid arthritis
Conditions Treated by this Procedure
Knee Replacement Surgery is highly effective in treating or managing the following diseases and conditions:
Types of Knee Replacement Surgery
How is the procedure performed?
- 1
Anesthesia is administered (general or spinal).
- 2
The surgeon removes damaged cartilage and bone from the knee joint.
- 3
Metal implants are positioned to recreate the surface of the joint.
- 4
A medical-grade plastic spacer is inserted between the metal components.
- 5
The incision is closed and bandaged.
Preparation & Pre-Op
- Complete physical examination to ensure surgical fitness
- Adjusting current medications (e.g., stopping blood thinners temporarily)
- Preparing your home for recovery (installing grab bars, arranging a ground-floor recovery area)
Recovery & Post-Op Care
- Physical therapy begins within 24 hours of surgery to restore movement
- Use of walking aids (walker or crutches) is required for 2-4 weeks
- Strict wound care and monitoring for signs of deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
- Gradual return to normal activities and driving over 4-6 weeks