Knee Replacement Surgery in Mumbai, India

During knee replacement surgery, also known as knee arthroplasty, parts of damaged or worn-out knee joints are replaced. The procedure uses metal and plastic components to repair broken bones and cartilage.

Knee replacement surgery can improve knee function and reduce pain. A surgeon evaluates your knee's strength, stability, and range of motion to determine if a knee replacement is the best course of action for you. X-rays can be used to demonstrate the extent of damage.

Numerous variables, such as age, weight, degree of activity, knee size and form, and general health, influence the appropriate artificial joints and surgical methods required.

Types Of Knee Replacement Surgery

• Total Knee Replacement: The most popular kind of knee replacement is a total knee replacement. Your surgeon will replace all three areas of your knee joint — the inside (medial), outside (lateral), and beneath your kneecap (patellofemoral).
• Partial Knee Replacement: As the name suggests, a partial knee replacement is precisely that. Usually, if only one or two parts of your knee joint are injured, your surgeon will only replace those parts. Younger persons who have suffered trauma or injuries are more likely to need partial knee replacements.

Symptoms That May Require Knee Replacement Surgery

Contact a healthcare professional if you are experiencing the following symptoms:

• Chest pain
• Dyspnea or shortness of breath
• Fever above 39 degrees Celsius (101 degrees Fahrenheit)
• Bleeding
• Symptoms such as leakage, swelling, discolouration, odour, or a warm sensation could indicate infection at the surgical site
• Ankle, foot, or calf pain that has started or gotten worse
• Severe pain that doesn't go away even after taking medicine

Diagnosing The Need For Surgery

• A medical examination to ensure your health is sufficient for surgery
• Blood examinations
• An ECG to assess the condition of your heart
• A dental exam to lower your risk of post-operative infection
• Imaging examinations, such as an X-ray of the knee. Additionally, you may require a computed tomography (CT) scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

Knee Replacement Surgery Procedure

Preparation For Knee Replacement Surgery

• Your doctor will also describe the operation to you, and you will have the chance to ask any questions you may have.
• You will be required to sign a consent document to authorise the procedure. If something is unclear, thoroughly read the form and ask questions.
• To ensure you are healthy before the treatment, your doctor may do a thorough physical examination and review your entire medical history. Blood tests and other diagnostic procedures might be performed on you.
• If you have an allergy or sensitivity to drugs, latex, tape, or anaesthetics (both local and general), let your doctor know.
• All prescription and over-the-counter medications, as well as herbal supplements, should be disclosed to your physician.
• If you have a history of bleeding issues or are using aspirin, anticoagulant (blood-thinning) drugs, or other drugs that interfere with blood coagulation, let your doctor know. Before the operation, you might need to stop taking these medications.
• You should let your doctor know if you are pregnant or think you might be.
• Before the surgery, you must fast for eight hours, usually after midnight.
• Before the treatment, you can be given a sedative to help you relax.
• Before your operation, you can consult a physical therapist to discuss rehabilitation.
• After you are released from the hospital, plan for someone to assist with household chores for a week or two.

During The Knee Replacement Surgery Procedure

Hospitalisation is required for knee replacement. Several procedures may be used depending on your health and your doctor's methods.

Most of the time, knee replacement surgery is done under general anaesthetic while you are unconscious. Your anesthesiologist will talk to you about this beforehand.

Knee replacement surgery generally follows this process:

• You might have an IV line started after changing into a gown.
• A urinary catheter may be placed while you are on the operation table.
• It may be necessary to trim any extra hair at the surgery location.
• The anesthesiologist will track vital signs during the surgery.
• An antibacterial solution will be used to clean the surgical site.
• After the incision, the surgeon removes the damaged knee surfaces and replaces them with a metal and plastic prosthetic.
• Three parts usually make up the prosthesis: patellar (kneecap), femoral (thigh bone), and tibial (shin bone).
• Stitches or staples are used to close the incision, and a drain may remove fluid.
• They apply a sterile dressing.

After The Surgery

In The Hospital

You will be observed in the recovery room following surgery. You will be brought to your hospital room once your vital signs have stabilised and you are conscious. Hospital stays for knee replacement surgery usually last several days.

It is important to move the joint as soon as possible following surgery. A CPM machine may gently move your knee while you rest, and a physical therapist will develop an exercise regimen. You will follow a plan while in the hospital and after you are discharged, and pain management will enable you to engage in the activities.

You'll be discharged home or to a rehab centre and continue physical therapy to regain strength and mobility.

At Home

• Following surgery, ensure the region is dry and clean, and take your baths as directed by your physician. Later, staples or stitches will be taken out.
• Take prescribed painkillers, elevate your leg, and apply ice. Steer clear of aspirin and drugs that cause bleeding. Call your physician if you experience fever, redness, swelling, or increasing pain.
• Unless instructed otherwise, you can return to your regular diet. Follow activity limitations and refrain from driving until your doctor gives the all-clear. It could take months to fully heal.
• Make home safety improvements, such as installing handrails and eliminating trip hazards. Use a cane or walker as advised to prevent falls. Steer clear of stairs until your doctor gives the all-clear.

Risks And Complications Of Knee Replacement Surgery

Problems can arise with every surgical operation. The following are a few potential issues, albeit they are not the only ones:

• Bleeding and infection
• Blood clots in the lungs or legs
• Wearing down or prosthesis loosening
• Fracture
• Persistent stiffness or discomfort

It's possible that the replacement knee joint will not function as intended, become loose, or be displaced. Later, the joint might need to be replaced once more.

Weakness or numbness may develop from damage to blood vessels or nerves in the surgical site. Surgery might not be able to relieve the joint pain.

Additional dangers can depend on your particular medical condition. Before the operation, talk to your doctor about any worries.

Recovery After Knee Replacement Surgery

After a knee replacement, full recovery often takes a year or so. However, six weeks following surgery, you should be able to return to most of your regular activities. Several variables will affect how long it takes you to recover, including:

• Degree of activity before surgery.
• Age
• Additional medical conditions

Your surgeon will provide a personalised recovery plan, but generally speaking, you should:

• Ice your knee: Applying ice to your knee for 20 minutes at a time a few times a day can reduce discomfort and swelling.
• Elevate your knee: Maintain your knee above your heart as much as you can by elevating it. You can rest it on a footstool if you're sitting in a chair or put it up on pillows or cushions if you're lying down.
• Maintain a clean and covered incision: Pay close attention to your surgeon's incision care instructions. Find out whether it's safe to bathe or shower and when to change the dressing around your incision.
• Exercises at home: As soon as possible following surgery, your surgeon will prescribe exercises for you to perform. They will demonstrate how to execute various exercises and activities to strengthen the muscles surrounding your knee and avoid stiffness. Perform your exercises as frequently as directed by your physician. They will ensure that your joint regains its function and aid in your recovery.
• Physical therapy: Following surgery, you may see a physical therapist for several months. They will assist you in beginning to walk and bend your knees securely.

Benefits Of Knee Replacement Surgery

Regaining mobility and relieving chronic pain are two benefits of this safe and efficient operation. Most knee replacement patients report better quality of life, more mobility and usage of their knee, and less discomfort.

Why Choose Nanavati Max Hospital For Knee Replacement Surgery?

Nanavati Max Hospital is a reliable option for knee replacement surgery because it has skilled orthopaedic surgeons who specialise in cutting-edge methods. Modern surgery, rehabilitation, and diagnostics facilities are available at the hospital, guaranteeing excellent care at every stage. Each patient receives individualised, comprehensive pre- and post-surgical support to ensure the best possible recovery. Nanavati Max Hospital is dedicated to offering top-notch care and attaining the greatest results for knee replacement patients, as evidenced by its impressive success rates and high patient satisfaction. For individualised, skilled knee surgery care, pick Nanavati Max.

Outlook

Thanks to developments in surgical methods, medical technology, and post-operative care, the prognosis for knee replacement surgery has considerably improved in recent years. With materials like metals and high-performance polymers made to last longer and wear down less, modern knee replacements are more resilient. Robotic-assisted surgery is one example of a minimally invasive technique that enables smaller incisions, quicker recovery, and reduced pain. Many people with knee replacement surgery report great pain reduction, increased mobility, and a better quality of life. The procedure has a high success rate. Rehabilitation methods have also changed, focusing on physical therapy and early mobility, speeding up recovery. It is anticipated that knee replacement surgery will continue to be a dependable and efficient treatment for people with severe knee arthritis or joint degeneration as long as improvements are made.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How Long Does a Knee Replacement Last?

A knee replacement can last 15-20 years, depending on age, activity level, and overall health.

2. Is Knee Replacement Surgery Painful?

Pain is common after surgery but is manageable with medication and therapy.

3. Are There Alternatives to Knee Replacement Surgery?

Alternatives include physical therapy, medications, or less invasive procedures like knee injections.

4. How Long is The Recovery Period for Knee Replacement Surgery?

Recovery typically takes 3-6 months, with full healing potentially taking up to a year.

5. Who Needs Knee Replacement Surgery?

Individuals with severe knee pain and dysfunction due to arthritis, injury, or wear and tear may need this surgery.

6. What Type of Doctor Performs Knee Replacement?

An orthopaedic surgeon specialising in joint replacement performs knee replacement surgery.

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