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Knee Pain Troubling You?
Are you or your loved ones facing constant knee pain that makes even simple tasks like walking or climbing stairs difficult? You're not alone. Many elders in India suffer from severe knee problems, mainly due to wear and tear of the knee joint. When medicines and other treatments don't work, doctors often suggest Knee Replacement Surgery. Don't worry, it sounds big, but it can bring back your freedom to move!
What is Knee Replacement Surgery? What are the common types/methods?Imagine your knee joint as a hinge that connects your thigh bone to your shin bone. Over time, the smooth covering (cartilage) on these bones can wear out, causing pain and stiffness. In Knee Replacement Surgery (also called Knee Arthroplasty), the damaged parts of your knee are removed and replaced with artificial parts, usually made of metal and plastic.
There are two main types1. Total Knee Replacement (TKR): This is the most common type. Here, all three main parts of your knee joint are replaced. It's like putting a completely new hinge.
2. Partial Knee Replacement (PKR): If only one part of your knee is damaged, only that part is replaced. Think of it as replacing only a specific section of the hinge, leaving the healthy parts as they are. This is also known as Unicondylar Knee Replacement.
Advantages of different methods
Total Knee Replacement (TKR)- Provides complete pain relief for severe arthritis
- Very durable, lasts for many years
- Highly successful in restoring function
Partial Knee Replacement (PKR)
- Smaller cut (incision).
- Less blood loss.
- Quicker recovery and shorter hospital stay.
- Feels more natural as most of your own knee is preserved.
Latest Advancements and their Advantages
Modern technology has made knee replacement even better!- Minimally Invasive Surgery: Instead of a long cut, smaller cuts are made, leading to less pain, faster healing, and less scarring.
- Computer-Assisted Navigation/Robotic Surgery: Surgeons use computers or robots for super-accurate placement of the new knee parts. This means better alignment, longer life for the implant, and often a more natural feel. KGMU in Lucknow, for example, has recently started robotic hip replacements.
- Custom-Made Implants: Some new implants are designed specifically for your knee's unique shape, fitting better and feeling more natural.
- Improved Pain Management: Newer pain control methods mean you experience less discomfort after surgery.
Average Length of Stay in Hospital and Recovery Time
- Hospital Stay: For most knee replacements, you might stay in the hospital for 3 to 5 days. For partial knee replacement, it can be even shorter, sometimes just 1-2 days!
- Recovery Time: You'll start walking with support (like a walker or crutches) within a day or two. Most people can do their daily activities within 6-12 weeks. Full recovery, where your knee feels completely normal and strong, can take 3 to 6 months. Regular physiotherapy is key!
Success Rates and Common Complications
- Success Rates: Knee replacement surgery has a very high success rate, often over 95% in relieving pain and improving movement. The new joint can last for 15-20 years or even more for most patients.
- Common Complications (Rare but good to know):
- Infection: Though rare, it's a serious risk. Hospitals take many precautions.
- Blood Clots: Medicines are given to prevent these.
- Stiffness or continued pain: Sometimes physiotherapy might be needed for longer.
- Problems with the implant: The new joint might loosen or wear out over a very long time, needing another surgery (revision).
Do you want to know more about the best hospitals and experienced doctors for Knee replacement in Lucknow? Contact the Medifinder team today at +91 63066 62068 for personalized guidance!