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Living an active lifestyle can become challenging for some older people due to joint pain caused by osteoarthritis or other reasons. Thus, for seniors over 75, Total Knee Replacement Surgery is a chance to regain independence and enjoy life without pain. In India, approximately 2,00,000 Knee Replacement Surgeries were performed in 2020, a number that is set to rise further in the future owing to the ageing population. In this blog post, we will provide a comprehensive insight into Knee Replacement Surgery for seniors over 75.
Synopsis
- Understanding Knee Replacement Surgery in the Elderly
- What to Expect After Knee Replacement Surgery?
- What Are the Risks and Benefits of Knee Replacement Surgery?
- Benefits of Knee Replacement Surgery in the Elderly
- Risk of Knee Replacement Surgery in the Elderly
- What are the alternatives to Knee Replacement Surgery in the Elderly?
- Conclusion
Understanding Knee Replacement Surgery in the Elderly
Osteoarthritis develops when joint cartilage breaks down due to wear, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness. During Total Knee Replacement Surgery, the surgeon removes the damaged sections of the knee joint and replaces them with metal, plastic, or ceramic parts, allowing them to move without pain or stiffness, improving quality of life. The procedure is only recommended when there is end-stage knee osteoarthritis.
Even though Knee Joint Replacement Surgery is a major procedure and requires several weeks of recovery at home, there is no age limit for joint replacement, and individuals, even those in their 80s and 90s, can benefit from this procedure. However, elderly individuals often have chronic health problems, so surgery must be individualised for each patient while considering its risks and benefits.
For example, individuals with diabetes must undergo tests to manage their blood sugar levels, and patients with cardiac ailments require the involvement of a cardiologist during surgery and after.
More Reads: 10 Benefits of Total Knee Replacement
What to Expect After Knee Replacement Surgery?
Here is what you can expect from the Knee Replacement Procedure:
After surgery, early movement is encouraged. Your surgeon will advise exercise and physical therapy to help regain muscle strength and facilitate joint healing. Pain management includes ice application or taking pain-relieving medications. You will be discharged from the hospital on the same day or the next day, but transportation from the hospital should be arranged since driving is not advised immediately after surgery.
Recovery after a Total Knee Replacement Surgery usually takes about 12 weeks. During the first few weeks, you may need crutches to support mobility. By 4 to 6 weeks, swelling should reduce, and mobility will improve. Staying active after Knee Replacement Surgery is crucial, and outdoor activities like walking, cycling, and swimming during the summer can improve knee health without putting extra strain on the joint.
More Reads: How Can Knee Joint Replacement Change Your Lifestyle
What Are the Risks and Benefits of Knee Replacement Surgery?
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Benefits of Knee Replacement Surgery in the Elderly
Many older adults experience significant pain relief and improved mobility after Knee Replacement Surgery, which greatly enhances their quality of life. Studies have shown that the benefits of Knee Replacement Surgery for elderly patients are comparable to those of younger patients. Furthermore, the risk of implant-related complications, such as erosion and mechanical loosening, is often lower in elderly patients, as they are less active. The need for revision surgery is also lower in elderly patients. However, the long-term outcomes of surgery for elderly patients remain uncertain.
More Reads: Types of Knee Replacement: Partial vs. Total
Risk of Knee Replacement Surgery in the Elderly
While risks exist, they are comparatively lower in elderly patients undergoing surgery. Complications such as nausea, vomiting, and cardiovascular complications can occur, especially in elderly patients undergoing Bilateral Total Knee Replacement Surgery. Other common side effects of surgery include reactions to anaesthesia, blood clots, infections, and nerve damage. Rarely, some patients experience allergic reactions to knee replacement components.
Older adults are more likely to have longer hospital stays and are at greater risk of readmission within 90 days compared to younger patients. Nevertheless, following the doctor’s instructions carefully can reduce the likelihood of complications.
More Reads: Total Knee Replacement Surgery - Recovery and Tips
What are the alternatives to Knee Replacement Surgery in the Elderly?
Most elderly patients with knee problems experience symptoms of pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced range of motion. Symptoms can worsen with activity or prolonged sitting. Early detection and appropriate management can delay the need for surgery.
Some of the alternatives to Knee Replacement Surgery are exercise, weight loss, physical therapy, medication (over-the-counter or prescription), and steroid injections. Less invasive options like Arthroscopy may also be used to repair cartilage and remove damaged bones.
However, in advanced stages of osteoarthritis, these options may provide limited relief. In such cases, Knee Replacement Surgery becomes a safe and effective treatment to alleviate pain and restore knee function.
Even though there are several treatments to avoid knee issues in elderly patients, prevention methods such as losing excess weight, engaging in low-impact exercise, and regular follow-ups are quite helpful in alleviating knee problems.
Conclusion
While Knee Replacement Surgery is a major procedure, it can be a life-changing option for elderly patients experiencing severe osteoarthritis. The procedure helps them regain mobility and obtain relief from pain. If you are seeking medical advice for your Knee Replacement Surgery from an expert orthopaedic, visit Manipal Hospitals, Ghaziabad.
FAQ's
Your surgeon makes an incision over the front of the knee to expose the damaged area of your joint. The knee cap is moved to the side, and the damaged cartilage is removed along with the bone. The damaged sections are then replaced with artificial knee implants that are biologically compatible and mimic your natural knee movement.
Osteoarthritis is often progressive, and the symptoms worsen with time, especially osteoarthritis of the knee, which does not get better with time.
According to research, 82% of Total Knee Replacements lasted for 25 years. The longevity of the implant can depend on factors like activity level, weight, and overall health. Wear and tear of the artificial knee can negatively affect its life span.
Replacing both knees at the same time allows patients to return to their normal lives quickly. However, there is a greater risk of developing cardiovascular problems and blood clots, especially among the elderly.
You can schedule an appointment at Manipal Hospitals, Ghaziabad, by contacting us or visiting our website.
Visit: https://www.manipalhospitals.com/ghaziabad/
Contact no: 0120 353 5353
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