Total Knee Replacement

Knee Replacement

What is Total Knee Replacement?

Knee replacement surgery is a procedure in which a damaged or worn-out knee joint is replaced with an artificial joint (prosthesis) made of metal, plastic, or ceramic. It is usually done to relieve pain and improve mobility in people with severe arthritis or knee injury.

Knee replacement, also known as knee arthroplasty or total knee replacement, is a very successful surgical procedure in which the severe compromise of a knee joint resulting from either arthritis or trauma is addressed. During the operation, metal and plastic parts, including the kneecap, cover the ends of the bones of the knee joint. This is recommended for individuals with advanced arthritis or severe knee injuries that severely impact mobility, along with limiting the overall quality of life.

Dr. Rohan Bhargava

MBBS (KEM, Mumbai), MS Ortho, DNB Ortho
FNB Arthroplasty, MRCSEd.(UK) MNAMS
Fellowship in Revision Joint Replacement (Germany)

The Total Knee Replacement Surgery Process

Knee replacement surgery helps restore mobility and relieve pain resulting from joint damage. Knowing the process helps prepare you. Here’s a brief overview of the steps, guided by one of the best knee replacement surgeons.

Step 1: Incision

The surgeon makes an incision on the knee to access the joint. Traditional surgery requires an 8–10 inch cut, while minimally invasive procedures need 4–6 inches. Talk to your doctor about whether a smaller scar or a better surgical view suits you.

Step 2: Rotating the Patella

The kneecap is turned so the joint is visible to the surgeon, exposing the damaged areas.

Step 3: Preparing the Femur

The thighbone, or femur, is prepared first. Any damaged bone and cartilage are removed, and the femur is reshaped to accommodate the artificial component. Precision instruments are used to ensure accurate cuts for success.

Step 4: Implantation of the Femoral Component

The femoral component is fixed onto the recontoured femur by applying bone cement to create the upper joint.

Step 5: Preparing the Tibia

The tibia is prepared for implantation by removing damaged cartilage, which helps reshape its surface for the tibial component.

Step 6: Implantation of the Tibial Component

The surgeon fixes a metal tibial tray to the tibia using bone cement and then attaches a polyethene insert for smooth movement and reduced wear.

Step 7: Patella Resurfacing

If necessary, the patella is flattened and attached with a plastic component, fixed with bone cement, for smooth interaction with the new knee joint.

Step 8: Final adjustment and closure

The surgeon checks the position of the implant by bending at the knee. Once satisfied with the position of the implant, the wound is closed with sutures or staples and the knee is dressed.

Advantages of Choosing Total Knee Replacement Surgery

Chronic knee pain shall not keep you from doing everything you want, so knee replacement surgery is a lifeline. The following are the main benefits of this exceedingly effective procedure: 

Relief from Knee Pain

The most common rationale for knee replacement in Jaipur is that it relieves severe arthritis or joint damage associated with knee pain. The surgery removes pain so that patients feel better than they have in years—or even decades. Relief can considerably improve sleep, mood, and overall well-being.

Better Mobility

After surgery, patients experience reduced pain and improved knee function, enabling smoother movement. Many patients regain the ability to perform exercises, enhancing their overall health. This improved mobility allows individuals to resume activities they had previously given up, leading to a more active and fulfilling lifestyle.

Enhanced Knee Function

Besides mobility, overall knee function is greatly enhanced following a total knee replacement. Patients can walk farther, climb stairs, and easily perform most of their daily tasks. This enhances functionality and makes patients independent and confident, thus allowing them to enjoy a higher quality of life.

Reduced Dependence on Pain Medication

A successful knee replacement surgery often reduces or eliminates the need for pain medication. Patients no longer depend on pharmaceuticals for relief, reducing potential side effects and enhancing their overall health.