Knee replacement surgery which is also known as knee arthroplasty is done to alleviate pain and restore function in the knee. The process involves removing the damaged bone and cartilage from the kneecap, thighbone, and shinbone. This is replaced by an artificial joint which is made of metal, plastic and polymers of high-quality.
When establishing whether or not you should opt for a knee joint replacement surgery in Delhi, an orthopaedic surgeon takes stock of the condition of your knee. This includes the stability and strength of the knee. Based on this assessment, doctors can opt for a wide range of surgical techniques depending on your age, weight, size and shape of your knee, the amount of physical activity you engage in and your overall health.
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Why It is Done
One of the biggest reasons behind opting for knee replacement surgery is to relieve pain caused by osteoarthritis. Before having this surgery a patient usually faces issues in climbing stairs, walking or getting in and out of chairs.
Preparing for the Surgery
Food and Medication
Depending on the medical conditions, doctors may ask to change the medication or alter the diet of the patient before the surgery. Before the surgery patients are not allowed to eat anything after midnight a day before the surgery.
Before the Surgery
Any joint replacement surgery in Delhi including knee replacement involves anaesthesia. The medical team as per the needs of the patient decides whether to opt for general anaesthesia or spinal anaesthesia.
In general anaesthesia, the patient is made unconscious, while in spinal anaesthesia, the patient is awake but is unable to feel anything from the waist down.
To help prevent post-surgical infection, intravenous antibiotics are administered before, during, and even after the surgery. A nerve block is also administered around the knee to numb it which eventually wears off.
During the Surgery
The knee is bent to expose all the joint surfaces following which an incision of 15 to 15 cms is made. The surgeon then removes the kneecap and cuts the joint surfaces which have been damaged.
Once the joint surfaces have been prepared, the surgeon attaches the pieces of the artificial joint. Before closing the incision, the knee is bent by the surgeon to ensure its proper functioning. The entire surgery lasts for around two hours.
After the Procedure
After the surgery, a patient has to stay in the hospital for a few days during which pain medicines are administered. Gradually, the patient is encouraged to move the foot and ankle which helps in blood flow and prevents blood clots and swelling.
Next, physical exercises are gradually increased and blood thinners are administered and compression boots are worn to further prevent swelling. A physical therapist also helps show the patient how to exercise using the new knee. Once home, these exercises must be continued along with a proper diet.
Knee replacements last for more than fifteen years and help people lead a better quality of life with reduced pain and improved mobility. Nearly two to three months are needed for full recovery during which the intensity of the physical exercises can be gradually increased under a physician’s supervision.
