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Knee Replacement, also known as Knee Arthroplasty, is the most effective treatment option for patients who have not responded to conservative treatment. It helps severely wounded knee joints regain their functionality and experience less discomfort. In India, the demand for Knee Replacement surgeries has been rising significantly, with estimates suggesting that around 200,000 Knee Arthroplasties were performed in 2020 alone.1 This rise is indicative of the increasing occurrence of knee problems brought on by sedentary lifestyles, ageing populations, and rising obesity rates. Total Knee Replacement surgery is an option for patients with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or serious knee injuries who want to improve their mobility and quality of life.
If you're considering Knee Replacement surgery or have already scheduled one, understanding the surgery insights and recovery process is crucial for achieving the best results. In this blog, we’ll explore the essential facts about Knee Replacement surgery, how to prepare, what to expect during recovery, and some practical recovery tips for ensuring successful long-term outcomes.
Synopsis
What is Knee Replacement Surgery?
The knee joint is one of the largest and most complex joints in the body, composed of the femur (thigh bone), tibia (shin bone), and patella (kneecap). It is cushioned by cartilage that offers smooth movement and absorbs shock during activities. However, age, trauma, and conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis may all damage the knee. Severe discomfort, stiffness, and decreased mobility may result from these problems.
When knee damage severely impairs your everyday activities and quality of life, Knee Replacement surgery may be required. In a Knee Replacement procedure, damaged bone and cartilage are removed from the knee joint's surface and replaced with an artificial implant made of metal and plastic.
A Knee Replacement can be of two types:
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Total Knee Replacement (TKR): An artificial knee joint replaces the whole knee joint.
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Partial Knee Replacement (PKR): The healthy portions of the knee are preserved, and just the damaged section is replaced.
Depending on the severity of your joint damage, level of activity, and general health, the orthopaedic surgeon will advise you on the best course of action.
Surgery Insights: Preparing for Knee Replacement
A successful Knee Replacement requires adequate planning. To assist you in getting ready for the surgery, consider the following crucial surgery insights:
Pre-Operative Testing and Medical Evaluation
Your doctor will perform a comprehensive evaluation, which may include imaging (MRIs or X-rays), blood testing, physical examinations, and maybe a heart and dental evaluation, before surgery. These tests confirm that you are in good health for surgery and assist your surgeon in deciding the optimal course of action.
Pre-Surgical Physical Therapy
Before surgery, strengthening the muscles in your legs can speed up your recuperation. Pre-surgical physical therapy, or "prehab," strengthens muscles, improves joint health, and increases flexibility, all of which facilitate better post-op recovery.
Evaluation of Medication
Tell your doctor about any drugs and dietary supplements you take. A week before surgery, you could be requested to cease taking certain drugs, particularly blood thinners, to lower your chance of surgical complications.
Home Preparation
It's critical to prepare your house for recovery following surgery. If at all feasible, set up a recovery area on the ground floor, reduce the risk of tripping or falling, and make sure you have crutches or a walker available. During the early stages of your recuperation, you should make plans for assistance with meals and housework. Visit the best Ortho Doctor in Ghaziabad.
The Knee Replacement Surgery Process
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You will be sedated during the Knee Replacement procedure, either with general anaesthesia (which puts you to sleep) or regional anaesthesia (which numbs the lower half of your body).
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An intravenous (IV) line may be inserted into your hand or arm to administer medication and fluids. After that, you will be placed comfortably on the operation table, and a urine catheter may be conveniently inserted if necessary.
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To ensure your safety throughout the procedure, your anaesthesiologist will keep a close eye on your breathing, blood pressure, heart rate, and blood oxygen levels.
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Using an antiseptic solution, the surgeon will clean the skin surrounding the surgical site and make an incision in the knee to access the injured joint.
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Then the surgeon will remove the damaged surfaces of the knee joint and resurface it with an artificial joint.
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The wound will be closed using surgical staples or stitches. A sterile bandage or dressing will be put on to protect the region, and a drain may be inserted into the incision site to remove any extra fluid.
Modern procedures, such as minimally invasive surgery, lessen the damage to the tissues surrounding the joint, resulting in a quicker recovery and decreased discomfort. Following the procedure, you will be admitted to the hospital and given more time for observation as you heal.
Recovery Tips: Steps to Ensure a Smooth Recovery
Post-surgery recovery is just as important as the surgery itself. The following recovery tips will help ensure a successful outcome and improve your joint health over time:
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Obey all of your surgeon's post-operative advice. This covers instructions for wound care, pain treatment, physical activity, and medication.
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You’ll likely begin physical therapy within 24 hours of surgery, starting with mild movements and moving to more strenuous exercises. Physical therapy will help you regain strength, flexibility, and function in your new knee.
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Pain is common after Knee Replacement surgery and can be managed by medications prescribed by your doctor. Using ice packs can also help reduce pain.
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Although relaxation is essential, an extended period of inactivity can hinder your recovery. Moving, even if it's just brisk walking around your house, is crucial.
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Even though Knee Replacement surgery is usually safe, complications can still arise. Keep an eye out for symptoms of infection, such as severe pain or swelling and increasing redness, warmth, or discharge at the site of the incision. If you experience any of these signs, get in touch with your surgeon quickly.
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A nutritious diet high in protein, vitamins, and minerals promotes recovery and fortifies your immune system. In order to remove toxins and aid in healing, proper hydration is also crucial.
Each individual recovers from Knee Replacement surgery differently and requires time. The majority of patients recover completely in three to six months, but most are up and walking in just a few weeks.
Long-Term Joint Health: Caring for Your New Knee
Your Knee Replacement is designed to last 15-20 years, but proper care is essential to maximise its lifespan. Consider the following recommendations for long-term joint health:
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Maintain a healthy weight, as excess weight puts stress on your new joint, which can lead to premature wear.
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Performing low-impact exercises like walking and cycling will help in knee flexibility and strength.
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Exercises that put stress on your Knee Replacement, such as running, jumping, or heavy lifting, should be avoided.
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Maintain routine follow-up visits with your orthopaedic surgeons to keep an eye on your knee's health and address any issues early.
Conclusion:
Knee Replacement surgery offers effective relief for patients suffering from chronic knee pain and mobility issues. By understanding the surgery process, preparing adequately, and following recovery and long-term joint health tips, you can ensure the best outcome. World-class Orthopaedic Surgery services, such as Knee Replacement, are provided by Manipal Hospitals, Ghaziabad, which prioritises individualised treatment and positive patient outcomes. Contact our team of professionals for advice and assistance if you have questions or are thinking about undergoing this surgery.
FAQ's
Primary indications for Knee Replacement surgery include the following conditions:
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Osteoarthritis
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Rheumatoid arthritis
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Post-traumatic arthritis
Knee Replacement surgery provides relief from chronic knee pain, improves mobility, allows the patient to engage in daily activities, and improves the quality of life.
A Knee Replacement procedure usually takes 1.5 to 3 hours to complete. The complexity of the case, the type of knee replacement (total or partial), and the surgeon's procedures are some of the variables that could affect the precise timing. It could take even longer to prepare for the procedure, administer the anaesthesia, and recuperate from it.
As with any surgery, Knee Replacement surgery also has some complications, like infection at the incision site or deeper tissue, blood clots, and nerve damage around the area of the implant. Problems with the knee implant can occasionally occur. These problems can include trouble bending the knee properly, loosening or becoming unstable over time, or specific implant components wearing out or breaking
You can schedule an appointment at Manipal Hospitals, Ghaziabad, by contacting us or visiting our website.
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