Knee replacement surgery involves removing damaged knee cartilage and bone and replacing them with artificial components to relieve pain and restore function. The procedure includes pre-op preparations, the surgery itself, and a comprehensive recovery and rehabilitation phase.
Knee arthroplasty or knee replacement surgery is a revolutionary procedure aimed at relieving pain and improving function in patients with severe knee joint pathology. The following surgery can help to enhance the quality of life of people who have knee arthritis or a severe injury. If you are thinking about undergoing this procedure, it is useful to know what happens during a knee replacement so you can be more confident.
Understanding Knee Replacement Surgery
Knee replacement surgery is usually carried out when patients cannot manage their pain with medication, physical therapy, or injections. Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or trauma can result in the wearing off of the cartilage in the knee joint and this causes pain, swelling, and limited movement. When these symptoms are beyond control and the simplest functions in life are affected, knee replacement surgery is possible.
The Procedure
- Pre-Operative Preparations: As with any other patient, you will receive a medical examination before the surgery. This comprises a blood test, a scan, for instance, an X-ray, an MRI, among others, and a history of your health. There are certain guidelines that you must follow before your surgery, these include changing some medication, not eating before the surgery among others and after-surgery care.
- Anaesthesia: During the surgery, you will be given anaesthesia to ease you during the entire process. The various categories of anaesthesia include general anaesthesia, which puts you to sleep, and regional anaesthesia, which numbs only the lower part of your body. The choice depends on factors such as your general health and the surgeon’s opinion.
- Surgical Procedure: As for the duration of the surgery, it is usually performed within one to two hours. The surgeon will have to make an incision at the anterior side of the knee to access this joint. In a total knee replacement, the worn-out cartilage and the underlying bone are resurfaced and replaced with a synthetic joint, which could be of metal, plastic or ceramic. These prosthetic parts are intended to move in a fashion that is as close to your knee as possible. However, it is also possible that only a particular segment of the knee is replaced, and this is called partial knee replacement.
- Closing and Recovery: After the new joint has been implanted the surgeon will then suture the incision using stitches or staples. You will be transferred to a recovery area where the nursing professional will assess your condition and control the level of pain. The majority of the patients are usually able to mobilise the joint immediately after surgery with assistance from a physiotherapist.
Post-Surgery: Recovery and Rehabilitation
- Hospital Stay: Normally, you will need to stay in the hospital for a couple of days after knee replacement surgery. The amount of mobility you will be allowed during this period will be determined, and the pain medication administered will be closely observed. The important goals will be to minimise pain, minimise inflammation, and start mild range of motion exercises.
- Physical Therapy: Among all the factors that are involved in the recovery process, physical therapy is one of the most important ones. With a well-structured rehabilitation programme, the muscles surrounding the knee joint will be built up, flexibility will improve, and normal functional use of the affected limb will be regained. To get the best results, it is crucial to follow the advice of your physiotherapist strictly.
- Home Care: Once you are discharged from the hospital, you will have to carry on with the recovery process at home. This includes following your exercise schedule, adhering strictly to your physician’s instructions when it comes to the use of drugs, and the gradual progression from rest to activity. This is why it is recommended not to engage in any activity that can put pressure on the affected area, and follow the surgeon’s recommendations.
- Long-Term Outlook: Knee replacement surgery is very effective because most patients can find relief from their pain and the mobility of their joints is restored. But, the best results can only be achieved over time, with constant effort in the rehabilitation process and the changes that need to be made. It is recommended that you have follow-up appointments with your orthopaedic surgeon to check on your healing and any issues that may arise.
Selecting the Right Orthopaedic Surgeon
Selecting the proper orthopaedic surgeon is very important to achieve the best result in knee replacement. Dr Rahul Gupta is one of the best orthopaedic doctor in Noida who specialises in knee replacement surgery. If you are contemplating having knee replacement surgery, then a consultation will give you the confidence and the boost you need to get the right surgery for the right results.
Total knee replacement is the first step towards regaining your ability to move and enhance your overall well-being. Knowing what happens during the procedure helps you to go through the surgery smoothly. Please bear in mind that the success of knee replacement does not only lie in the surgery, but also in the post-surgery rehabilitation and care that is necessary. To consult the best orthopaedic doctor in Noida and receive proper guidance regarding knee replacement, contact Dr Rahul Gupta. Knee replacement gives a new life to patients who have knee problems and cannot walk properly. If you are ready to undergo this surgery and ensure you have the best care possible, contact a specialist and start on your journey to a more active and pain-free life.
