Knee replacement surgery is a medical procedure that entails substituting a compromised knee joint with a prosthetic device. Typically considered a final option, this surgery is recommended for individuals grappling with intense knee pain resulting from conditions like arthritis, trauma, or other severe knee ailments. Additionally, it is advised for those with pronounced knee deformities that impede regular movement and functionality.
While many knee issues can be addressed through physical therapy or medications, joint replacement surgery, also known as arthroplasty, becomes a necessary consideration when:
Relieve Worsening Knee Pain
Knee replacement surgery is instrumental in alleviating arthritis-related pain, often diminishing it to a manageable level. Typically, orthopedic surgeons explore medications and non-surgical treatments as initial options before considering knee replacement. However, in certain cases, these measures may fall short in providing sufficient relief.
This scenario applies to:
- Patients grappling with severe osteoarthritis are unresponsive to nonoperative treatments.
- Individuals enduring pain resulting from rheumatoid arthritis or trauma.
- Patients with a torn meniscus.
Knee replacement surgery serves to restore the quality of life for such individuals by reducing pain and enabling a return to regular daily activities. It's noteworthy that, while some post-surgical discomfort may persist, it is significantly subdued compared to the pre-surgery pain and should not impede the patient's lifestyle.
Restore Mobility and Function
Knee replacement surgery is a transformative procedure that aims to reinstate mobility and enhance the function of the knee joint. Achieving this involves the elimination of pain, improvement in stability, and the restoration of balance. Additionally, the surgery can enhance a patient's range of motion, addressing issues commonly arising from:
- Advanced arthritis
- Severe trauma to the knee joint
- Deformities in the bones of the feet, legs, or hips
- Weakness in the muscles surrounding the knee joint
- Post-surgery, individuals may need to curtail high-impact activities like running.
However, they will still retain the ability to engage in a broad range of activities, marking a significant improvement in overall knee function and quality of life.
Prevent Deformity
Certain knee conditions can induce joint deformities, exacerbating pain and restricting mobility.
Knee replacement surgery serves as a preventive measure against the progression of deformities by replacing the compromised segment of the joint. This intervention not only halts the advancement of deformity but also facilitates improved mobility, enabling patients to walk with greater ease and reduced pain.
The choice between partial or total knee replacement depends on the specific condition:
- Partial knee arthroplasty entails the removal and replacement of the damaged portion of the knee with a metal or plastic device.
- Total knee arthroplasty involves the complete removal of the knee joint, replaced with a metal or plastic implant.
What are the Risks of Knee Replacement Surgery?
While knee replacement surgery offers significant benefits for those in need, it's essential to be aware of potential risks. Before making a decision, it's crucial to engage in a detailed discussion with your doctor regarding both the advantages and potential drawbacks of the procedure.
The risks associated with knee replacement surgery encompass:
- Infection:
The possibility of post-surgical infection. - Blood Clots:
Risk of blood clot formation, a known complication. - Nerve and Blood Vessel Damage:
Potential damage to nerves and blood vessels surrounding the knee. - Joint Instability or Stiffness:
The risk of experiencing joint instability or stiffness post-surgery. - Loosening of the Implant Over Time:
The gradual loosening of the implanted device over an extended period.
Looking for knee replacement surgery in Patna? Dr Jaswinder is here to assist you. Additionally, we provide ancillary services such as physical therapy and rehabilitation to ensure a comprehensive recovery.