Total knee replacement, also known as total knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure performed to relieve pain and improve mobility in people with severely damaged knee joints, most often due to arthritis or injury. In this procedure, the worn-out surfaces of the knee are removed and replaced with smooth artificial components made of metal and plastic. These parts cover the ends of the bones in the knee joint, including the kneecap, to create a stable, pain-free surface for movement.
This surgery is typically recommended for individuals with advanced arthritis or severe knee damage that significantly limits daily activities and reduces quality of life. Total knee replacement is considered a highly successful procedure, offering long-term pain relief and improved function for most patients.
MBBS (KEM, Mumbai), MS Ortho, DNB Ortho
FNB Arthroplasty, MRCSEd.(UK) MNAMS
Fellowship in Revision Joint Replacement (Germany)
You may benefit from a total knee replacement if you are experiencing:
Persistent knee pain that makes walking, climbing stairs, or even sitting and standing difficult.
Pain at rest or during the night that disturbs your sleep.
Stiffness or loss of movement in the knee, making it hard to bend or straighten your leg.
Needing to take painkillers almost every day* to manage knee discomfort.
Limited ability to perform everyday activities, such as dressing, bathing, or household tasks.
Increasing dependence on walking aids like a cane or walker.
Visible knee deformity (bowed or knock-knee) that is worsening over time.
A decline in your overall quality of life because knee pain prevents you from enjoying work, hobbies, or social activities.
If these problems affect your daily living and non-surgical treatments have not provided relief, a total knee replacement may help restore mobility and improve quality of life.
The durability of a knee replacement depends on your activity level and how well the joint is cared for. With sensible use, most knee replacements last *15–20 years or longer*, and in many patients, they last a lifetime.
Yes, both knee replacements can be performed during a single operation under one anaesthesia. However, whether this is suitable depends on your overall *medical fitness, age, and health condition*. We will carefully assess these factors to decide if replacing both knees together is the safest option for you.
On average, most patients are able to go home *within 3 to 4 days* after surgery. However, the exact timing depends on individual recovery and overall health.
Most patients are able to *stand within 4–5 hours* after surgery. Regular physiotherapy usually begins the next day. Once you are able to move safely and visit the washroom independently, you can typically be discharged *2–4 days after surgery*, depending on your individual recovery.
We follow Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols to help you recover safely and more quickly.
Hours 0–5:
* You will be monitored in the recovery room.
* Most patients are able to stand and take a few steps with support within 4–5 hours.
Day 1:
Physiotherapy begins, focusing on gentle knee movements and walking with a walker or crutches.
* Pain is managed with medication as needed.
Day 2–3:
* Continued physiotherapy to improve knee flexibility and strength.
* You will practice walking, climbing a few steps, and performing basic daily activities safely.
* Most patients can visit the washroom independently and manage simple self-care tasks.
* Discharge usually occurs during this period, depending on your individual recovery.
Tips for the First Week at Home:
* Keep the surgical area clean and dry.
* Continue prescribed exercises to maintain mobility.
* Use walking aids as instructed.
* Follow your doctor’s guidance on pain management and activity limits.
This timeline may vary depending on your individual recovery and overall health. ERAS protocols are designed to help you **recover faster, safely, and comfortably.
Yes, patients with *high blood pressure, diabetes, asthma, or other chronic medical conditions* can safely undergo joint replacement surgery. These conditions need to be *optimised with medication prior to surgery* to ensure a *smoother recovery* and to *minimise the risk of complications or infections*.
Our medical team will carefully assess your overall health and optimise any existing conditions to make the surgery as safe and successful as possible.
After a knee replacement, there are some *important activity guidelines* to ensure the longevity of your new joint:
* *Sitting and squatting:* Traditional Indian customs such as cross-legged sitting and deep squatting are *discouraged, as extreme positions put **more pressure on the prosthesis, may cause **discomfort, and can increase **implant wear. Using a **commode or toilet chair* is recommended instead.
* *Physical activity:* Low-impact exercises like *walking and swimming* are encouraged to maintain strength and mobility.
* *High-impact activities:* Activities such as *running, jumping, or heavy physical labor* are discouraged, as they can increase wear on the joint and risk complications.
Following these recommendations helps ensure a *long-lasting, pain-free knee* and reduces the risk of injury or damage to your replacement.