Total Knee Replacement

Knee replacement is the most common and successful orthopaedic surgery. It helps reduce knee pain and increases their ability to move. Total knee replacement also improves a person's overall quality of life. This article will give you complete information about total knee replacement, including its types, procedure, risks, benefits, and complications.

Total knee replacement, also called total knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure in which parts of the bones forming the knee joint are removed and replaced with artificial implants. It helps relieve knee pain and stiffness caused by arthritis, osteoarthritis, gout, or age-related degeneration.

There are two types of knee replacement:

• Total knee replacement: It is the most common type of knee replacement. In total knee replacement, the surgeon replaces the three parts of the knee joint—the inside, outside, and under your kneecap. It is recommended for people suffering from chronic arthritis.
• Partial knee replacement: In partial knee replacement, only the diseased or damaged part of the knee is replaced. It is recommended for young people who experience knee pain due to injury or trauma.

Total knee replacement is recommended in the following cases:

• It is recommended for rheumatoid arthritis, which causes inflammation and joint damage.
• People suffering from severe osteoarthritis may need TKR because knee cartilage wears down slowly.
• It is suitable for people suffering from knee deformities such as bow-legged or knock knee alignment that affects mobility.
• People suffering from post-traumatic arthritis that is caused due to knee injury may benefit from TKR.
• It is recommended for people suffering from chronic knee pain and stiffness and who do not get relief from medications and physical therapy.
• People experiencing difficulty in walking, climbing stairs, or performing daily activities may benefit from TKR.

Before Surgery 

You have to prepare before surgery. When you visit to meet a surgeon, he will take a complete history, including physical examination and medical history.

• The doctor will recommend blood tests, X-rays, MRI, or CT Scan tests.
• The doctor will also get clearance from a cardiologist if you are suffering from diabetes or any heart problem.
• You may have to stop taking some medications before surgery, such as blood thinners, to avoid bleeding during surgery.
• You have to stop eating or drinking at least 12 hours before surgery.
• Avoid smoking and alcohol drinking a few days before surgery. 

During the Procedure 

• You will be given general or local anaesthesia, depending on the type of knee surgery.
• The surgeon will make an incision, which is about 5-10 inches in front of the knee.
• The damaged bone and cartilage are removed and replaced with an implant. The doctor will place a spacer to recreate a smooth cushion of your cartilage and reshape your patella to fit the replaced implant if needed.
• The doctor will close the incision using staples or stitches. 

After the Procedure 

• After knee replacement, you will be shifted to the recovery room to monitor for a few hours and ensure you wake up from the anaesthesia and there are no complications.
• They will monitor your vital signs, pain level, and initial leg movements.
• You may have to stay in the hospital for a couple of days to recover properly after knee surgery.

Like every surgery, knee replacement also has some associated risks and complications. Some common risks and complications of total knee replacement are:

• Infection is the most common risk that may occur at the site of incision.
• Blood clots can occur
• Nerve or blood vessel damage may occur at the site of surgery
• Some people may experience persistent pain and swelling
• The implant may become loose or wear down, but it happens after a long time.
• Sometimes stiffness remains for a long time, and the person does not achieve the desired range of motion, and additional therapy or revision surgery may be required.

Gleneagles Hospitals is known for effective knee replacement surgery. Some reasons to choose Gleneagles Hospitals for knee replacement are:

Advanced Surgical Techniques: Gleneagles Hospitals uses advanced surgical techniques for total knee replacement. They use minimally invasive techniques such as robotic surgery for total knee replacement. The doctors use cutting-edge technology to enhance precision and results.

Multidisciplinary Approach: The hospital uses a multidisciplinary approach for knee replacement surgeries. The doctors make pre-surgical assessments, make personalized treatment plans, and offer post-operative pain management strategies. The doctors and other team members ensure patient safety and comfort throughout the process.

Experienced Orthopaedic Surgeons: The hospital has a team of experienced and dedicated orthopaedic surgeons who have expertise in minimally invasive surgeries. Their expertise helps them achieve great success in every case. The doctors employ the best methods to reduce trauma and expedite recovery for patients.

Positive Results: Patients give positive feedback and testimonials after recovering quickly from knee replacement surgery. Patient satisfaction reflects that Gleneagles Hospitals is the best hospital for knee replacement. The hospital has a team of the best knee replacement doctors.

Rehabilitation and Recovery Protocols: The hospital offers rehabilitation programs for patients to facilitate quick recovery, reduce pain, and shorten hospital stays. The doctors try to help patients start walking one or two hours after surgery. This reflects precision and efficacy in the hospital's treatment protocols.

Total knee replacement is an effective and safe surgical procedure to relieve pain and restore mobility. It is a big decision, and patients often feel anxious about the procedure. Choosing Gleneagles Hospitals ensures expert care from experienced orthopaedic surgeons and access to advanced technology for the best outcomes. After knee replacement surgery at Gleneagles Hospitals, you can enjoy a pain-free and active life with proper rehabilitation and lifestyle guidance.