All About Knee Replacement Surgery

The persistent ache in your knees, the difficulty in navigating stairs, and the struggle with everyday movements—these experiences are all too familiar for millions around the world. Knee pain, a pervasive ailment, often stems from age-related degenerative changes like osteoarthritis, where the protective cushioning within the joints, the cartilage, gradually erodes. Alongside, inflammatory joint diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or previous injuries contribute to this distressing discomfort. When conventional remedies fail and daily life becomes a challenge, knee replacement surgery, also known as knee arthroplasty, emerges as a source of comfort and mobility to alleviate the pain.

In this article, we will learn in detail about knee replacement surgery, its types, pre-operative workup, what happens during and after the surgery, post-operative instructions, and much more. To make this post knowledgeable, the expert doctors at Simpain Ortho, renowned for providing the best knee replacement surgery in Delhi, have shared their insights. Keep reading to learn more.

Knee replacement surgery is a meticulous procedure where a damaged knee joint is replaced with a prosthetic joint, typically crafted from metal and plastic components. The decision to opt for this surgery comes after exhaustive attempts with non-surgical interventions, such as tailored physical therapy and lifestyle adjustments, failed to provide relief from pain and enhance mobility. This surgical process aims to address functional disabilities stemming from severe knee conditions, thereby enhancing the individual's overall quality of life.

Within the realm of knee replacement surgeries, two primary types exist: total knee replacement (TKR) and partial knee replacement (PKR).

Patients often grapple with concerns regarding knee replacement surgery, encompassing fears about potential risks, the success rate of the surgery, post-replacement joint functionality, and the durability of the prosthesis. Worries about the recovery phase, the necessity of rehabilitation, and the ability to resume daily activities also loom large. Transparent communication with healthcare professionals plays a pivotal role in addressing these concerns, offering patients a comprehensive understanding of the procedure and its potential outcomes.

Before embarking on knee replacement surgery, a meticulous preoperative workup is conducted 1 to 2 weeks prior to the scheduled procedure. This comprehensive assessment includes a detailed review of medical history, a thorough physical examination, and essential laboratory tests. An anesthesiologist assesses the patient's overall health and discusses anesthesia options. The treating surgeon meticulously reviews the results to plan the surgery accordingly.

Patients typically undergo admission to the hospital one day before the scheduled surgery. Meetings with the surgeon and anesthesiologist help clarify protocols and allay any concerns. Depending on the patient's preoperative health, knee replacement surgery may be performed in one or two stages. Post-surgery, patients commence standing and walking with assistance on the same day. Physiotherapy includes targeted knee-bending exercises to facilitate a smooth recovery. Discharge occurs 4-5 days post-surgery, accompanied by detailed wound care instructions, medication guidance, and the scheduling of follow-up visits.

Rehabilitation forms the cornerstone of knee replacement recovery. Patients are encouraged to engage in daily at-home physiotherapy sessions for 3-4 weeks to enhance knee range of motion and functional ability. Follow-up visits, scheduled at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year post-surgery, monitor wound healing and involve stitch removal. By 3-4 weeks, patients regain confidence in walking and climbing stairs independently. By 6-8 weeks, full knee range of motion is typically regained. Knee replacement surgery heralds unparalleled joy, liberating individuals from pain, stiffness, and disability caused by knee arthritis, thereby amplifying their lives and fostering enriched social connections.

Knee replacement surgery stands as a transformative solution for individuals tormented by debilitating knee conditions. Advancements in surgical techniques, prosthesis design, and surgical expertise have bolstered the success and safety of knee replacement procedures. Grasping the nuances of different surgeries, addressing patient concerns, and wholeheartedly committing to post-operative rehabilitation are pivotal steps in ensuring a successful and fulfilling recovery. For those grappling with relentless knee pain, knee replacement surgery offers not just relief but the promise of renewed mobility and an invigorated quality of life. To learn more about knee replacement surgery, one can book an appointment with expert orthopedics at Simpain Ortho Clinic.

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