Knee replacement surgery, also known as knee arthroplasty, is a highly effective procedure for those suffering from severe knee pain due to joint degeneration or injury. This surgical procedure helps alleviate pain and restore mobility, allowing patients to resume normal daily activities. If you are dealing with chronic knee pain or stiffness and have been considering knee replacement, Dr. Sumit Dubewar, the best orthopedic surgeon in Secunderabad, offers expert care to help you regain a pain-free life.

Who Requires Knee Replacement Surgery?

Knee replacement surgery is typically recommended for individuals suffering from significant knee joint damage due to conditions such as:

• Severe Arthritis: Whether caused by osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, the cartilage in the knee wears down, resulting in pain, swelling, and limited movement.
• Degenerative Joint Disease: Over time, the cartilage that cushions the knee joint can degrade, leading to bone-on-bone contact, which causes pain and inflammation.
• Traumatic Injury: Knee injuries caused by accidents or sports can damage the cartilage, ligaments, and other structures of the knee joint.
• Osteonecrosis: This condition occurs when the blood supply to the bone is interrupted, causing the bone to collapse and the joint to deteriorate.
• Knee Deformities: Certain conditions, such as bow-leggedness or knock-knees, can alter the knee joint’s function, leading to pain and impaired mobility.

Grades of Knee Arthritis and When Knee Replacement is Recommended

Knee arthritis is categorized into different grades based on the severity of the damage. Understanding these grades helps determine whether knee replacement is necessary.

Grade 1 & 2: Mild to Moderate Arthritis

• Minimal joint degeneration
• Mild to moderate pain during specific activities or after prolonged use
• Manageable with non-surgical treatments like medications, physical therapy, lifestyle modifications, and intra-articular injections
• Quality of life may not be significantly affected

Grade 3 & 4: Severe Arthritis

• Significant joint damage and visible wear on X-rays
• Persistent and intense pain, even while resting, which hinders daily activities
• Stiffness and reduced range of motion, making it difficult to walk, climb stairs, or perform regular tasks
• Quality of life is greatly impacted, making joint replacement surgery a viable option when conservative treatments no longer provide relief

For patients with severe arthritis (Grade 3 or 4), knee replacement surgery offers the chance to alleviate pain, restore knee function, and improve the overall quality of life.

What to Expect During Knee Replacement Surgery

Knee replacement surgery involves removing the damaged or diseased parts of the knee joint and replacing them with artificial components, also known as prostheses, made of materials like metal, plastic, or ceramic. The procedure generally takes around 1-2 hours, depending on the complexity of the case.

After surgery, the new knee joint will function similarly to the natural joint, allowing for improved movement and pain relief. The surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia or spinal anesthesia, depending on your health and the surgical approach.

What to Expect After Knee Replacement Surgery

Post-surgery, the recovery process involves several stages, and it’s important to follow your surgeon’s guidance to achieve the best results.

• Hospital Stay: Most patients stay in the hospital for a few after surgery for monitoring and initial recovery.
• Physical Therapy: Rehabilitation is a crucial part of the recovery process. Physical therapy begins soon after surgery to help restore range of motion, strength, and mobility in the knee.
• Pain Management: Your healthcare team will prescribe medication to manage any discomfort during the recovery period.
• Home Recovery: Once discharged, you will continue physical therapy at home and follow your surgeon’s guidelines to avoid complications and promote healing.

It’s common to experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort during the recovery period, but with proper care, most patients can return to normal activities within 6 to 12 weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Knee Replacement Surgery

• What is knee replacement surgery?

Knee replacement surgery, or knee arthroplasty, involves replacing the damaged knee joint with artificial components made of metal, plastic, or ceramic to relieve pain and restore function.

• Who is a candidate for knee replacement surgery?

Candidates include individuals with severe knee arthritis, degenerative joint disease, osteonecrosis, or knee deformities that cause significant pain and impair daily activities.

• How long does knee replacement surgery take?

Knee replacement surgery typically takes around 1-2 hours, depending on the complexity of the case.

• What type of anesthesia is used for knee replacement surgery?

The procedure is generally performed under general anesthesia or spinal anesthesia, depending on your medical condition and surgeon’s recommendation.

• What is the recovery time after knee replacement surgery?

Most patients can return to normal activities within 6-12 weeks, but full recovery may take up to 6 months. Physical therapy plays a key role in recovery.

• Are there any risks associated with knee replacement surgery?

While knee replacement is generally safe, risks include infection, blood clots, implant problems, or nerve damage. Dr. Sumit Dubewar will thoroughly discuss these risks and how to minimize them before surgery.

• What activities can I resume after knee replacement surgery?

After full recovery, you can resume low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, and biking. High-impact activities like running or jumping may need to be avoided to preserve the longevity of the implant.

• How long can a knee replacement last?

A knee replacement typically lasts around 15-20 years, depending on factors like your activity level, weight, and overall health.

• Will I be able to kneel after knee replacement surgery?

Kneeling may be difficult after surgery due to the design of the prosthesis, but with time and physical therapy, many patients can regain some ability to kneel comfortably.

• How can I prepare for knee replacement surgery?

Preparation involves physical therapy, managing any existing medical conditions, and following pre-surgery instructions provided by your healthcare team. It’s also important to arrange for help at home during the initial recovery period.

• Why choose knee replacement surgery?

Knee replacement surgery is a safe and effective option for individuals with severe knee pain or limited mobility that interferes with daily activities. The procedure significantly improves quality of life by reducing pain and restoring knee function.

• Does all knee pain require knee replacement surgery?

No, not all knee pain requires knee replacement. If non-surgical treatments like medications, physical therapy, or injections have not provided relief, knee replacement may be considered as a last resort.

Book Your Knee Replacement Consultation with Dr. Sumit Dubewar Today!

If you’re suffering from knee pain that’s affecting your quality of life, Dr. Sumit Dubewar, the best knee replacement surgeon in Secunderabad, is here to help. Dr. Sumit will evaluate your condition and guide you through every step of the knee replacement process, ensuring you receive personalized care for a successful outcome.

Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward a pain-free, active life!