A Comprehensive Guide to Knee Replacement Surgery

Knee replacement surgery, known as knee arthroplasty, involves replacing damaged knee joint sections with artificial parts. It's a standard solution for those with significant knee pain and reduced mobility due to osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or past injuries.

Why Is It Done?

Knee replacement surgery is primarily sought to relieve severe knee pain and disability, often caused by arthritis. Osteoarthritis, a common degenerative condition, mainly affects older individuals, causing cartilage deterioration, bone-on-bone friction, inflammation, and intense pain. Though, increasingly a significant number of people between 45-60 years of age are also living affected by arthritis.

Rheumatoid arthritis (autoimmune disease) can also lead to significant joint damage and discomfort, necessitating surgical intervention. Traumatic injuries like fractures or ligament tears may also require knee replacement to restore function and alleviate pain.

Individuals who require knee replacement surgery typically experience significant challenges with everyday activities like trouble in walking, climbing stairs, getting up from chairs, and sleeping.

Types of Knee Replacement

Following are the types of knee replacement surgery:

●     Total Knee Replacement: This Procedure involves replacing the knee joint inner (medial) and outer (lateral) compartments. It is the most common type of knee replacement surgery and is typically recommended for individuals with extensive damage to the knee joint.

●     Partial Knee Replacement: This minimally invasive Procedure replaces only the specific damaged knee joint area. Arthritis most commonly affects the medial compartment. It is suitable for individuals with damage limited to a particular knee area. Mostly, it is recommended in individuals between 45-60 years of age.

Preparing for Surgery

Thorough preparation is essential before undergoing knee replacement surgery. Your doctors or healthcare guides will help you through the process, ensuring you are well-prepared for the Procedure and recovery.

●     Medical Evaluation: You'll undergo a series of evaluations to assess your suitability for surgery. These will include a comprehensive review of your medical history, a physical examination to evaluate your knee's range of motion and stability, and imaging studies like X-rays and MRIs to visualize the extent of joint damage.

●     Medication and Dietary Adjustments: Your medical team will guide you on specific drugs or supplements you must discontinue before the Procedure. You will also be asked to refrain from eating or drinking anything after midnight on the day of your surgery.

●     Recovery Preparation: Make sure your home is ready for your recovery. Get any equipment you need, like crutches or a walker. Plan how you'll get home from the hospital. And think about how you'll manage things like cooking, showering, and laundry in the first few weeks after surgery. Consider modifying your home, such as creating a living space on one floor, installing safety bars in the bathroom, and securing handrails to facilitate recovery.

What to Expect

Understanding the surgical process and recovery can help alleviate anxiety and ensure a smoother experience.

●     Before the Procedure: On the day of your surgery, you'll change into a hospital gown and be prepped for anesthesia. You'll either receive a spinal block to numb the lower half of your body or general anesthesia to induce a sleep-like state. The surgeon might also administer local anesthesia around your knee for additional pain relief after the Procedure.

●     During the Procedure: Knee replacement surgery typically takes 30-45 minutes . The surgeon makes an incision over the knee, carefully removes the damaged bone and cartilage while preserving healthy bone, and then implants the replacement components into the thigh bone, shinbone, and kneecap. The implants are designed to replicate the natural movement of the knee joint, allowing for smooth and pain-free motion.

●     After the Procedure, you'll be taken to a recovery room for observation after the operation. The length of your hospital stay varies based on your progress and individual needs. Many patients can leave the hospital on the same day or within a few days.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

The recovery after knee replacement surgery is important for achieving optimal outcomes.

●     Early Mobilization: You will be encouraged to start moving and walking with assistance soon after surgery to prevent blood clots and promote healing.

●     Pain Management: Your healthcare team will provide pain medication and other strategies to manage discomfort during recovery.

●     Play Therapy:A physical therapist will help you through a personalized exercise program to strengthen your knee muscles and increase their range of motion.

●     Lifestyle Adjustments: During recovery, you may need to make temporary adjustments, such as avoiding strenuous activities and following any restrictions your healthcare team recommends.

Results and Long-term Outlook

Knee replacement surgery generally boasts a high success rate, improving the quality of life for those struggling with severe knee pain and limited movement. Most patients experience remarkable pain relief, enhanced mobility, and a newfound ability to participate in activities they once enjoyed.

●     Longevity: While the lifespan of a knee replacement varies, most are expected to last 15 to 20 years and sometimes even longer. Factors like age, activity level, and overall health can influence the length of your implant.

●     Post-Recovery Activities: Once you've recovered, you can enjoy low-impact activities like walking, swimming, golfing, or biking. However, it is important to avoid high-impact exercises such as jogging or contact sports, which could put undue strain on your new knee joint.

Conclusion

Knee replacement surgery can dramatically improve the quality of life for individuals suffering from severe knee pain and restricted movement. If you're exploring this option, it's vital to talk with an orthopedic surgeon to discuss your circumstances and decide if this procedure suits you. You can anticipate a more active and comfortable future with proper preparation, successful surgery, and committed rehabilitation. Remember, being well-informed is crucial in making the best decisions for your health.

 Sterling Hospital is Your Partner in Better Health Across Gujarat

Sterling Hospital has proven itself to provide the best orthopedic hospital in Ahmedabad, Vadodara, and Rajkot. We provide you with the utmost care and comfort throughout your journey to healthy bones and joints. If you are looking for the best orthopedic doctor in Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Rajkot and Gandhidham,  we've got you. Safeguard your bone health and contact Sterling Hospital to schedule a consultation and embark on a journey towards a healthier life.