Orthopaedics and Joint Replacement

There is no precise formula for determining when you should have a Knee Replacement. If you are having difficulties even in doing simple routine activities of life, you may be a candidate. A careful assessment by an Orthopaedic Surgeon should yield a recommendation.

In very early stages, life style modifications like healthy calcium rich diet, doing advised knee exercise and above all shedding all excess weight might help. Also you may discuss to your surgeon about other medical procedures commonly recommended before resorting to Knee Replacement Surgery, including steroids or Hyaluronic acid injection & in some cases arthroscopic surgery.

However delaying a necessary Knee Replacement could result in a less favourable outcome.

During the operation, the surgeon removes damaged cartilage along with a very small part of adjacent bone. These are replaced with implants. The implants combine to form a synthetic ( but biologically compatible) joint that mimics closely the movement of your natural knee.

Most Knee Replacement procedures takes about 1 hours to complete.

Implants are comprised of medical grade metal & plastic. These components are fixed to bone by two methods:

1. By the use of Bone Cement.
2. A cement-less approach that uses components with a porous coating into which bone gradually grows.

Any surgery with anaesthesia has risks however complication risks are extremely low. An anaesthesia team in your consultation will determine which type of anaesthesia is best for you.

Although you may experience some pain after surgery. It is managed adequately with continuous intraepidural infusion for first 3 days post surgery. This is followed by IV medication to control pain. After being discharged from hospital, you will be advised oral medicine for pain.

Your willingness to engage in physical therapy & make lifestyle modifications can have a significant impact on your post-surgery level of pain.

You will be able to start walking the same day in the evening or the next day with  the aid of a walker. A physiotherapist will help you with walking, knee movements & specific exercises.

After you return home, therapy will continue for next 3 weeks and you will be asked to engage in specific exercises designed to improve the functionality of the knee. You will be able to resume normal daily activities unaided & without support after 3 weeks.

Studies show that about 85% of patients still have a functioning artificial joint 20 years after the surgery. However wear & tear on the joint can adversely affect its performance & lifespan. So you need to follow the advised precautions to prolong the life of replaced knee. Consult with a doctor for specific problems & queries.