Knee Replacement Surgery
Knee replacement, or knee arthroplasty, is an operation designed to reduce pain and improve movement in badly damaged knee joints. This operation is usually done when the chronic inflammation cannot be treated by medication and physical therapy. This blog post covers different topics related to knee replacement surgery, such as the types of surgery, the process, and the recovery period after the surgery, costs, and related risks.
Understanding Knee Replacement Surgery
Knee replacement surgery involves removing damaged cartilage and bone from the knee joint and replacing them with artificial components made of metal and plastic. This procedure can significantly improve quality of life for individuals suffering from conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or post-traumatic arthritis.
Types of Knee Replacement Surgery
- Total Knee Replacement (TKR): This is the most common type of knee replacement surgery. In TKR, both the femur (thigh bone) and tibia (shin bone) are replaced with artificial components. The undersurface of the kneecap may also be resurfaced if necessary.
- Partial Knee Replacement: Also known as unicompartmental knee arthroplasty, this procedure replaces only one compartment of the knee joint. It is often recommended for patients with arthritis confined to a specific area of the knee.
- Bilateral Knee Replacement: This involves replacing both knees during a single surgical session. It is typically recommended for patients with severe arthritis in both knees who are otherwise healthy enough to undergo the procedure.
- What Happens During Knee Replacement Surgery?
The surgery usually takes about 1 to 2 hours. Here’s a general overview of what occurs during the procedure:
- Anesthesia: Patients are typically given either general anesthesia (making them unconscious) or regional anesthesia (numbing the lower body).
- Incision: The surgeon makes an incision over the knee to access the joint.
- Removal of Damaged Tissue: The damaged cartilage and bone surfaces are removed from the femur and tibia.
- Implantation of Prosthetics: Metal and plastic components are implanted to create a new joint surface.
- Closure: The incision is closed using stitches or staples, and a bandage is applied.
- Recovery: Post-surgery, patients are moved to a recovery area where they are monitored as they wake up from anesthesia.
What is the Cost of Knee Replacement Surgery?
The price of knee replacement depends on some factors, such as the type of operation, whether total knee replacement or partial knee resurfacing, the hospital where you will be operated on, and the surgeon’s experience. The average cost of total knee replacement surgery is between₹ 1,75,000 and₹ 6,90,000. Generally, the price ranges between ₹1,50,000 and ₹2,00,000. Those with fewer facilities may charge lower compared to those with very many facilities that are specialized, thus the superspeciality hospitals may charge high. These costs may include pre-operative evaluation costs, consult fees, the kind of implant utilized, and the duration of the actual hospitalization. The patients should also have a rough estimate of other incidental expenses that they will incur in the overall treatment process, including costs related to postoperative care and physiotherapy.
How Painful is Having a Knee Replacement?
Pain levels after knee replacement surgery can vary from person to person. Most patients experience some pain post-surgery; however, effective pain management strategies are implemented during recovery. Pain typically decreases significantly within a few weeks as healing progresses. Physical therapy plays a crucial role in managing pain and improving mobility.
Can I Run After Knee Replacement?
Many patients wonder if they can return to running after undergoing knee replacement surgery. While some individuals may be able to resume running after adequate recovery and rehabilitation, it is generally recommended to engage in low-impact activities such as swimming or cycling instead.
What is the Lifespan of Knee Replacement?
The lifespan of a knee replacement can vary based on factors such as age, activity level, weight, and overall health. On average, most knee implants last between 15 to 20 years, although some may last longer with proper care and maintenance.
What Can Go Wrong After Knee Replacement?
While knee replacement surgery has a high success rate, there are potential complications that can arise:
- Infection: Although rare, infections can occur at the surgical site.
- Blood Clots: Patients may be at risk for deep vein thrombosis (DVT) post-surgery.
- Implant Problems: Issues such as loosening or wear of the implant may occur over time.
- Stiffness: Some patients may experience stiffness in their knee joint post-surgery.
How Many Hours is a Full Knee Replacement Surgery?
A full knee replacement surgery typically lasts about 1 to 2 hours, but patients should expect to be in the operating room for longer due to preparation and recovery time immediately following the procedure.
Conclusion
Knee replacement surgery can be life-changing for individuals suffering from debilitating knee pain and limited mobility due to arthritis or injury. With advancements in surgical techniques and rehabilitation practices, many patients experience significant improvements in their quality of life post-surgery.
If you or someone you know is considering knee replacement surgery, it’s essential to consult with an experienced orthopedic surgeon who can provide personalized recommendations based on individual health needs and circumstances. For more information on knee replacement surgery or other orthopedic solutions, feel free to reach out to us at Ligament Solution! Your journey towards pain-free movement starts here!
