Things to remember about knee replacement surgery
Any type of surgery, at any age, is an overwhelming experience. There are several considerations one has to make when surgery is suggested as a treatment protocol. Similarly, in the case of knee replacement, various aspects need to be regarded. In this article, Dr Debashish Chanda, the best knee specialist in Gurgaon, talks about everything you need to know about knee replacement surgery.
Dr Debashish Chanda can be consulted at the CK Birla Hospital, the best hospital for knee replacement surgery in Gurgaon.
What is knee replacement surgery?
A knee replacement surgery is an invasive procedure in which your damaged knee joints are replaced with artificial implants. The newly implanted joints restore your mobility and weight-bearing capacity while eliminating knee pain.
This procedure is also known as knee arthroscopy or knee resurfacing. This surgery is of two types - total and partial knee replacement.
When is knee replacement surgery indicated?
Dr Chanda, the best knee specialist in Gurgaon, suggest surgery as the last and permanent resort for knee pain. The objective of a knee replacement is to get rid of pain and other symptoms. The surgery is indicated with non-surgical treatment methods such as lifestyle changes such as weight loss, physical therapy, pain relief medicines and more have failed to show results.
Several factors contribute to deciding whether or not you are suitable for knee replacement. These include your age, your general health, the severity of your symptoms among others.
Some of the common conditions treated with the use of knee replacement are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, post-traumatic arthritis, chronic knee inflammation, knee deformity and more.
How to prepare for knee replacement?
A knee replacement is a major surgical procedure. You can expect to undergo a range of tests while preparing for the surgery. In the preliminary investigations, your doctor will discuss your personal medical history, current medications and lifestyle habits. You may be asked to make simple modifications in your dietary routine.
Your doctor will indicate basic diagnostic tests such as X-rays, blood tests, ECG and more to assess your overall condition.
What to expect during knee replacement?
A knee replacement means the surgical repair of a damaged or worn out knee joint. In this procedure, your surgeon makes a large incision on your knee to access the damaged joint. He/she cuts the damaged joint and replaces it with a metal or plastic implant. The surgery takes nearly 2-3 hours to complete.
You should discuss all your concerns about the surgery prior. Your surgeon will offer you anaesthesia during the surgery to numb the pain.
What is a knee implant?
The medical implant is an effective tool and functions as a natural knee. It is made up of metal and plastic that can fit biologically. There are different types of knee implants. Your surgeon will be able to analyse and choose the best type of implant for you.
What does the recovery for knee replacement look like?
The recovery period for knee arthroscopy is approximately 3 months. You will be hospitalised for up to 3 days after the surgery. You can expect to experience some amount of pain and discomfort which will eventually lessen. Your surgeon will suggest physical therapy along with a complete course of medication to help strengthen your knee.
You will be able to walk within 24-48 hours after surgery. You should, however, not lift heavy objects and put pressure on the surgical site.
You may be advised to temporarily use a supportive device for movement. You will be able to do simple light-weight physical activities such as walking, cycling, swimming after about 6 weeks of the procedure.
You can avail knee replacement surgical treatment at the CK Birla Hospital, the best hospital for knee pain in Gurgaon.
To learn more about knee-related ailments, book an appointment with Dr Debashish Chanda, the best knee specialist in Gurgaon.