If persistent knee pain, stiffness, and difficulty in walking are impacting your everyday life, it might be time to explore a solution that brings lasting relief. Total knee replacement is becoming a life-changing choice for many individuals dealing with severe arthritis, injuries, and long-term joint damage. But how do you know when it’s the right time for surgery? Let’s understand it better.
What is Total Knee Replacement?
Total knee replacement, also called knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to replace a damaged knee joint with artificial components (prostheses). It’s usually recommended when the knee joint is worn out beyond the help of non-surgical treatments.
The surgery involves resurfacing the ends of the femur (thighbone) and tibia (shinbone) with metal and plastic components that mimic the natural joint. The goal is to relieve pain, restore function, and improve mobility.
There are two primary types of knee replacement surgeries:
- Total Knee Replacement (TKR): This involves replacing the entire knee joint — including the femur, tibia, and patella (kneecap) — with a prosthetic joint. It is the most common type of knee replacement surgery.
- Partial Knee Replacement (PKR): Also known as unicompartmental knee replacement, PKR is performed when only one part of the knee joint (usually the inner or medial compartment) is damaged. This procedure preserves more of the patient’s natural knee structure and often results in quicker recovery and a more natural knee movement.
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| What is Total Knee Replacement |
Why is Total Knee Replacement Surgery Needed?
Total knee replacement surgery is generally recommended when the knee joint is so badly damaged that it affects a person's ability to perform everyday activities like walking, climbing stairs, or even sitting and standing comfortably. This may happen due to:
- Severe Osteoarthritis: The most common reason for total knee replacement. Over time, the cartilage that cushions the joint wears down, causing bone-on-bone friction, pain, and inflammation.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune disease that causes inflammation of the joint lining and can lead to chronic pain and joint destruction.
- Post-Traumatic Arthritis: Resulting from a serious injury to the knee such as a fracture or torn ligaments that leads to long-term degeneration.
- Knee Deformities: Conditions like bow-leggedness or knock-knees that worsen over time and cause joint instability.
- Failed Conservative Treatments: If physical therapy, medications, steroid injections, and other non-surgical methods fail to relieve symptoms.
Pain, loss of motion, joint instability, and swelling that does not improve with rest or medications are clear signs that surgical intervention may be the best course.
Who Should Consider Total Knee Replacement Surgery?
Not everyone with knee pain needs surgery, but there are clear indications when it becomes necessary. Candidates for total knee replacement often include:
- Chronic Pain: Individuals who suffer from constant knee pain — even while resting — that interferes with sleep or daily activities.
- Reduced Mobility: Difficulty in walking, climbing stairs, or standing for long periods, often requiring the use of a cane or walker.
- Joint Stiffness: Limited motion that doesn’t improve with therapy or medications.
- No Relief from Medications: Conservative methods no longer provide relief.
- Knee Deformities: Visible knee shape changes worsening over time.
- Low Quality of Life: Restricted activities due to pain and limited mobility.
Importantly, age is no longer the sole deciding factor. Many individuals in their 40s and 50s are opting for knee replacement to stay active.
Common Causes That Lead to Total Knee Replacement
- Osteoarthritis: Wear-and-tear of the joint.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: Chronic inflammation.
- Post-Traumatic Arthritis: From injuries like fractures or ligament damage.
- Infections: Chronic joint infections damaging cartilage.
- Obesity: Excess weight stressing the knees.
- Meniscus or Ligament Injuries: Untreated injuries affecting stability.
The Total Knee Replacement Surgery Procedure
The procedure typically takes 1 to 2 hours and involves:
- Anesthesia: General or spinal anesthesia.
- Incision: Opening the knee to expose the joint.
- Resurfacing the Joint: Removing damaged bone and cartilage.
- Implant Placement: Installing prosthetic components.
- Closure: Stitching and bandaging the incision.
Robotic-assisted surgery ensures greater precision and better outcomes.
Physical Therapy for Knee Replacement Recovery
Post-surgery rehab is critical:
- Early Mobilization: Walking within 24–48 hours.
- Physical Therapy: Ongoing sessions to improve strength.
- Range of Motion Exercises: Prevent stiffness and improve movement.
- Home Exercises: Personalized programs to speed recovery.
Recovery Timeline After Knee Replacement Surgery
- Hospital Stay: 2–3 days.
- First Week: Walking begins with walker/crutches.
- Weeks 2–6: Strength and mobility improve.
- Months 3–6: Return to normal activities.
- 6–12 Months: Full recovery.
Recovery depends on age, health, and commitment to physiotherapy.
Types of Knee Replacement Techniques
Robotic-Assisted Total Knee Replacement
- Precise implant alignment
- Less blood loss
- Faster recovery
- Less pain
Minimally Invasive Knee Replacement
Smaller incisions and faster recovery with fewer complications.
Revision Knee Replacement
Used when a prior implant fails. A complex, specialized surgery.
Bilateral Knee Replacement
Both knees are replaced at once or in stages.
Partial Knee Replacement (PKR)
Only the damaged part of the knee is replaced, offering quicker recovery and natural movement.
Total Knee Replacement Surgery Costs
Costs vary based on the hospital, implant, and technique:
- Standard Surgery: ₹1.5 to ₹2.5 lakhs
- Robotic-Assisted Surgery: ₹2.5 to ₹3.5 lakhs
Additional costs include therapy, medications, and diagnostics.
Total Knee Replacement Options: Choosing the Right One
Your orthopedic surgeon will recommend the best option based on your condition, age, and activity level.
Why Timely Surgery Matters
Delaying surgery can worsen damage and reduce future effectiveness. Early treatment leads to better outcomes and recovery.
Dr. Pramod Chahar – Trusted Orthopedic Surgeon for Knee Replacement in Jaipur
- Ex-Faculty, SMS Hospital Jaipur: Deep expertise from a top institution.
- Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement Specialist: Offering minimally invasive surgery with faster recovery.
- Hundreds of Successful Surgeries: Proven track record with happy patients.
- Personalized Treatment Plans: Tailored based on patient needs and lifestyle.
- Patient-Centric Approach: Empathetic communication and thorough guidance.
Whether elderly or young and active, Dr. Chahar is a trusted name in total knee replacement in Jaipur.
Take the First Step Toward Pain-Free Living
If knee pain is limiting your life, it's time to explore your treatment options. Schedule a consultation to see if knee replacement is the right step for you.
📞 Call Now: +91 895-502-2227
🌐 Website: www.drpramodchahar.com
