Knee pain is the most common problem experienced by most of the people in India. It is mostly caused due to injuries, diseases, overuse or accidents. The treatment methods involve medications, physiotherapy, injections, etc. If none of these treatments works for a patient, doctors mostly suggest undergoing a replacement surgery. So, here in this blog, we will guide you on the types, procedures and costs of undergoing knee replacement surgery.
What is Knee Replacement Surgery?
When the damaged part of your knee is removed and replaced with a new knee or can say a new implant, it is known as Knee Replacement Surgery. The implants are artificial knee that supports and mimics any joints. The implants are also known as prostheses.
A surgeon first carefully examines your knee throughout and then suggests which type of surgery you will be required. Depending upon the severity, number of implants, and type of injury, the type of Knee replacement can vary.
Types of Knee Replacement Surgery
Depending on the severity of the problem, type of injury and no. of implants to be fixed, the types of Knee replacement surgery can differ. Here are some different types of Knee Replacement Surgery:
Total Knee Replacement Surgery
Your knee joint is a type of ball and socket joint. It is supported by various tendons, muscles, bones and cartilage. When all the parts of a damaged knee are replaced with an artificial joint made of alloys, it is known as Total Knee Replacement Surgery.
Partial Knee Replacement Surgery
When only one part of your knee is damaged and replaced with an artificial joint, it is termed partial knee replacement surgery. In this, either the thigh bone or shin bone coverage and replaced with an implant.
Revision Knee Replacement Surgery
When a patient requires implant replacement after surgery, it is said to undergo revision knee replacement surgery. It is rarely recommended to any patient. This is done when the implants are placed for a longer time and it undergoes wear & tear over time.
All these types of surgery are performed by only the best surgeon for knee replacement. A good doctor has vast years of experience and knowledge to correct the problem of a patient in one go. Always look for a highly educated and experienced surgeon for your knee replacement surgery.
The Procedure of Knee Replacement Surgery
Knee Replacement Surgery is a long procedure that starts from the medical admission of a patient to the discharge. It involves three steps which are basically before the surgery, during the surgery and after the surgery. Let’s discuss each of these steps.
Before the Surgery
Before going for a knee replacement surgery, a patient must be fully prepared for it. This involves:
- Medical Evaluation:
To establish whether a patient is a good candidate for surgery, the patient’s medical history, general health, and any underlying disorders are assessed. In order to determine the severity of the joint injury, blood tests, X-rays, and other imaging procedures may be used.
- Preparation at Home:
Home preparations should include arranging for post-surgery help, creating a comfortable recovery area, and having necessities on hand. Patients are recommended to make these preparations in advance of the surgery.
- Physical Therapy:
Pre-operative physical therapy may be advised to increase mobility overall, strengthen muscles, and improve joint flexibility, depending on the patient’s condition.
During the Surgery
The surgery is done after one day of admitting the patient. In the surgery, the doctor replaces all the parts of the damaged knees and replaced it with new ones. This process involves:
Anesthesia:
To guarantee a pain-free experience, the patient is given either general anesthesia (unconscious during the treatment) or regional anesthesia (numbing the lower body).
- Incision:
A carefully thought-out incision is made over the knee joint to allow access to the broken joint parts.
- Implant Position:
The prepared bone surfaces are firmly linked to the artificial joint components, which are commonly comprised of metal and allows. These elements mimic the form and operation of a natural joint.
- Closure:
A sterile dressing is used after the incision is stitched or stapled shut.
After the Surgery
Once the surgery is done. You are taken from an OT room and placed in a normal room. Your doctor will advise you to avoid standing, folding or running on your knees. Some methods include:
Hospitalization:
To control pain, track healing, and begin physical therapy, the patient stays a few days in the hospital under medical care.
- Pain control:
Prescription painkillers are given to patients to ease their post-operative discomfort. To ensure enough comfort, pain levels are carefully monitored.
- Physical therapy:
Recovery starts soon after surgery. Patients are led through exercises by physical therapists to increase knee mobility, strength and general function.
- Follow-Ups:
Regular follow-up meetings with the surgeon are planned to track advancement, gauge healing, and address any issues.
Cost of Knee Replacement Surgery
The Cost of Knee Replacement Surgery varies depending on various factors such as the cost of the bed opted for, the type of implant, the company of implant and no. of implant, the severity of the problem, the hospital choice, doctor’s fees and the city opted for operation.
Depending on this factor the knee replacement surgery cost in Delhi for total replacement is between ₹3 lakh to ₹6 lakh. The cost of partial knee replacement in Delhi can vary between ₹1.5 lacks to ₹3 lakhs.
Conclusion
This was everything about Knee Replacement Surgery. If you are experiencing pain, swelling or inflammation in your knee joint, immediately connect with a good and experienced surgeon. The surgeon will first diagnose your problem and suggest you some non-surgical methods.
If none of the non-surgical methods work for your problem, then they will suggest you undergo knee replacement surgery.
It is always better to prevent any knee-related problem rather than go for surgery. To prevent any knee-related problem, you must exercise daily, go for a morning walk, perform yoga, eat a healthy diet, take Vitamin D and Calcium supplements and go cycling if possible.
These activities will ensure your knees are in good condition and you won’t suffer from knee pain in the future.