What is Knee Replacement Surgery?

Knee replacement, knee arthroplasty or Knee Replacement Surgery is a surgical procedure intended to provide pain relief and restore function to severely arthritic knee joints. Most descriptively used as a therapy of choice in persons with arthritic and traumatized knee immobility, this procedure consists of the debridement and replacement of the damaged articular surfaces with artificial implants. The aim is to enhance the quality of life of the patient by decreasing pain and increasing mobility of the joints.

Types of Knee Replacement

There are many possible knee replacement surgeries, each depending of the patient’s individual requirements and the degree of damage to the joint.

• Total Knee Replacement (TKR)

This is by far the most typical, encompassing the total replacement of the knee joint. It is generally advised to patients who are affected by severe arthritis involving majority of the knee.

• Partial Knee Replacement (PKR)

In this approach the only part of the knee that is replaced is the damaged site, usually leaving some natural knee in its place. PKR is less traumatic and indicated for patients with restricted knee disease.

• Complex or Revision Knee Replacement

This operation is carried out when previous one knee replacements have been unsuccessful or when the patient has significant bony involvement. It’s a complex surgery requiring specialized implants.

Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid After Knee Replacement

Knee replacement surgery recovery takes several steps and cautions. Here are common mistakes that can hinder recovery:

Not Following Physical Therapy:- Physical therapy is crucial for regaining mobility and strength. Skipping sessions or not performing the prescribed exercises can delay recovery.

Overdoing Physical Activity:- Although hyperkinetic movement is favored, strenuous exercise can stress the knee joint and result in complications.

Neglecting Pain Management:- Pain control is essential for a smooth recovery. Pain avoidance can result in both discomfort and a decrease in progress made in physical therapy.

Not Taking Care of Incisions:- Proper wound care helps prevent infection. Patients should adhere to good wound hygiene and keep their incisions disinfected and be aware of signs of infection.

Ignoring Follow-Up Appointments:- Periodic check-ups enable the clinician to evaluate the course of recovery and intervene at an early stage in case of any abnormality.

Knee Replacement Surgery Cost

Knee replacement surgery price is influenced by, among others, the hospital site of the surgery, surgeon’s level of skill, and choice of implant. In general:

• Average Cost in India

The cost ranges between ₹1.5 lakhs to ₹4 lakhs, with variations depending on whether it’s a partial or total knee replacement.

• International Cost Comparison

In the form of medical tourism, the sky is the limit in countries like the U.S., where the cost of treatment can be over $30,000(₹25 lakhs) but some patients choose to access medical treatment affordably abroad via knee replacement surgery.

Knee Replacement Surgery Recovery Time

Recovery time post knee replacement surgery is variable depending on the patient’s health, the surgery modality, and compliance to post operative follow-up care.

• Initial Recovery

The acute rehabilitation phase during which patients feel the highest levels of pain, typically lasts for 2-3 weeks. In this period it is welcome that patients adhere to a structured physical therapy protocol.

• Full Recovery

Full recovery may take 3-6 months, and patients will progressively restore power, mobility, and are able to resume normal activities.

Can Life Be Normal After Knee Replacement?

Indeed, many patients see a large amount of quality of life improvement after knee replacement. After complete rehabilitation, people can usually walk comfortably and can do some light exercise and enjoy an active life. But, high-impact activities (e.g., running or jumping) likely will be avoided, in an attempt to preserve the implant life.

Advantages & Disadvantages of Knee Replacement Surgery

• Advantages

Pain Relief: Substantial reduction or elimination of knee pain.

Improved Mobility: Enhanced joint function, allowing for everyday activities.

High Success Rate: Most surgeries are successful and improve the patient’s quality of life.

• Disadvantages

Risk of Complications: Not unlike any surgery, there are risks including infection, varicosities, or nerve injury.

Recovery Time: Recovery time may be long, involving physical therapy commitment.

Implant Lifespan: Implants may have to be renewed after 15-20 years, particularly because of their young patients.

What is the Life of a Knee Replacement?

A knee replacement generally survives from 15-20 years and even longer for the implants of a newer generation. Factors influencing implant lifespan include:

• Patient Age and Activity Level

Active young patients could deteriorate implanted devices more quickly than less active elderly patients.

• Implant Type and Quality

The use of good quality materials and new implant geometries has proved to have a higher longevity, sometimes even extending over 20years with good maintenance.