Knee Replacement Surgery in Delhi NCR
Knee replacement
surgery, also known as knee arthroplasty, is a highly effective medical
procedure designed to relieve pain and restore function in severely diseased
knee joints. It is one of the most commonly performed orthopedic surgeries
worldwide, particularly among older adults suffering from advanced
osteoarthritis or other degenerative joint conditions. With advances in
surgical techniques and prosthetic designs, patients today experience better
outcomes and quicker recoveries than ever before.
What is Knee
Replacement Surgery?
Knee replacement
surgery involves removing damaged or worn-out surfaces of the knee joint and
replacing them with artificial components made of metal, plastic, or ceramic.
These artificial parts mimic the movement of a natural knee and help patients
regain mobility and reduce chronic pain.
There are two main
types of knee replacement:
- Total Knee Replacement (TKR): Involves replacing all three
compartments of the knee joint.
- Partial Knee Replacement (PKR): Only the damaged compartment is
replaced, preserving more of the natural knee.
Who Needs Knee
Replacement Surgery?
Knee replacement
is usually recommended for patients who:
- Suffer from severe knee pain that
limits everyday activities such as walking, climbing stairs, or getting in
and out of chairs.
- Have chronic inflammation and swelling
that doesn't improve with medication or physical therapy.
- Experience knee stiffness and reduced
range of motion.
- Do not get adequate relief from
non-surgical treatments such as painkillers, injections, physiotherapy, or
lifestyle changes.
The most common
causes leading to knee replacement include:
- Osteoarthritis – Age-related wear and tear of the
knee cartilage.
- Rheumatoid arthritis – An autoimmune condition causing
chronic inflammation.
- Post-traumatic arthritis – Resulting from previous knee
injuries.
Preparing for
the Surgery
Preparation is key
to a successful knee replacement. Patients usually undergo:
- Pre-operative evaluations: Including blood tests, X-rays, ECG,
and sometimes MRI.
- Medical clearance: Especially for those with conditions
like diabetes or heart disease.
- Physical preparation: Strengthening muscles around the knee
through pre-surgery physiotherapy, known as “prehab.”
- Medication review: Some medications may be adjusted or
stopped before surgery.
Doctors may also
recommend weight loss for overweight patients to reduce stress on the new knee
joint post-surgery.
The Surgical
Procedure
Knee replacement
surgery typically lasts between 1 to 2 hours and involves the following steps:
- The patient is given spinal or general
anesthesia.
- The surgeon makes an incision over the
knee and removes the damaged bone and cartilage.
- The artificial joint components are
positioned and fixed in place.
- The incision is closed with stitches
or staples, and a sterile bandage is applied.
Most patients
begin moving the knee within a day or two after surgery.
Recovery and
Rehabilitation
Recovery from knee
replacement surgery varies but generally involves:
- Hospital stay: 2 to 4 days in most cases.
- Pain management: Medications are prescribed to control
post-surgical pain.
- Physical therapy: Begins immediately to regain mobility
and strength. Walking aids may be needed temporarily.
- Home care: Modifications may be required at
home, such as removing tripping hazards or installing support bars.
Full recovery may
take 3 to 6 months, although some patients continue improving for up to a year.
Benefits of
Knee Replacement Surgery
- Pain relief: Most patients experience a
significant reduction in chronic knee pain.
- Improved mobility: Ability to walk, climb stairs, and
perform daily activities improves markedly.
- Better quality of life: Patients regain independence and can
often return to low-impact activities like swimming, cycling, and walking.
- Long-lasting results: Modern implants can last 15–20 years
or longer with proper care.
Risks and
Complications
While knee
replacement is generally safe, it does carry some risks, including:
- Infection at the surgical site
- Blood clots in the legs or lungs
- Implant loosening or wear
- Persistent pain or stiffness
- Nerve or blood vessel damage
Most of these
complications are rare, especially when surgery is performed by experienced
orthopedic surgeons and proper aftercare is followed.
Knee replacement
surgery has transformed the lives of millions suffering from chronic knee
conditions. By reducing pain, enhancing mobility, and improving quality of
life, it offers a new lease on life for individuals struggling with limited
joint function. If non-surgical treatments are no longer effective and knee
pain interferes with your daily activities, consulting with an orthopedic
specialist about knee replacement could be the next step toward reclaiming your
mobility and comfort. Always weigh the benefits, risks, and your personal
health goals before making a decision.
For best knee replacement surgery in Delhi NCR please visit Asic Clinic
Comments
Post a Comment