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Knee Replacement Surgery: Benefits & Risks Explored

03 October 2023

Knee Replacement | Dr. Pankaj Bajaj
Knee Replacement Surgery: Benefits & Risks Explored

In the pursuit of better health and enhanced quality of life, the option of knee replacement surgery emerges as a significant consideration. Referred to as total knee replacement surgery, this procedure offers individuals the promise of reduced pain, restored mobility, and an opportunity for a more active lifestyle.

Within this informative guide, the focus shifts to knee replacement surgery, uncovering its potential benefits beyond physical betterment. It enables individuals to regain the joy of movement and engage in activities they might have previously given up.

However, like any medical journey, there are potential risks to acknowledge and address. This guide provides an insightful overview of the benefits and risks associated with knee replacement surgery, equipping readers with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

Whether individuals are personally considering knee replacement surgery in Delhi or other parts, the guide provides valuable insight into the intricacies of the procedure, empowering them to make informed choices.

Let’s first start with know-how about Knee Replacement Surgery.

Knee replacement surgery involves removing damaged bone & cartilage from the knee & replacing it with an artificial joint (prosthesis).

A surgeon checks your knee's range of motion, stability, and strength to decide whether a knee replacement suits you. X-rays help show the extent of the damage.

The right artificial joints and surgical techniques depend on age, weight, activity level, knee size and shape, and overall health.

Need for Knee Replacement Surgery

The primary reason for knee replacement surgery is to relieve arthritis discomfort. Those who require knee replacement surgery often find it difficult to stand up from a chair, walk up steps, and climb stairs.

Surgeons often replace the injured knee portion if it only has one damaged area. The thigh bone and shinbone ends are reshaped & the entire joint is resurfaced if the entire joint needs to be replaced. These bones have a soft center inside rigid tube. The artificial components' ends are inserted into the softer middle region of the bones.

Benefits of Knee Replacement Surgery

Knee replacement, also called knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure to resurface a knee damaged by arthritis with metal and plastic components. In unicompartmental knee replacement (also called partial knee replacement) only a portion of the knee is resurfaced, while, in TKR the total knee compartment is replaced.

Pain Relief

Total knee replacement surgery may be necessary when severe pain is persistent and unresponsive to alternative treatment options. Debilitating knee pain can be reduced or eliminated with a successful knee operation.

It might be challenging to walk, climb stairs, get a good night's sleep, and carry out everyday tasks when you have chronic knee discomfort from arthritis. The ability of a total knee replacement to lessen significantly or even altogether remove knee discomfort is one of its main advantages.

Increased Mobility

Before surgery, severe knee discomfort might make walking, maneuver stairs, exercising, etc. difficult. Mobility may improve following a successful knee replacement.

Osteoarthritis makes the surfaces of your knee joint rougher, which prevents the knee from moving smoothly and results in pain and stiffness. The knee joint can move more freely with a total knee replacement. Many people may now participate in skiing, hiking, and snowshoeing activities that they haven't done in years because of their previous knee problems. It also makes walking and climbing stairs much simpler.

Enhanced Independence:

A crucial aspect of regaining personal independence is mobility. Many people can reclaim a sense of self-sufficiency lost owing to knee problems, whether by taking charge of everyday responsibilities once again, moving freely, or engaging in past interests once more.

Healthier Lifestyle:

Mobility issues and chronic pain leads to a sedentary lifestyle. A knee replacement followed by physical therapy sets you up for success in improving stability, maintaining a healthy weight, increasing your strength, and eventually returning to the physical activities you adore.

Improved Quality of Life:

Improved quality of life is among the most crucial benefits of total knee replacement. Pain relief leads to a better outlook and mood. Increased mobility allows you to enjoy life again and engage in activities that may not have been possible.

Highly Successful.

Studies show up to 90% of knee replacement patients reported being satisfied. The lifespan of a knee replacement is 20 years. The best knee replacement surgeon in Delhi & other metro cities vouch for it with recent technological advancements.

Risks of Knee Replacement Surgery

A knee replacement carries risks akin to other major surgeries. People with heart problems, uncontrolled diabetes, or a compromised immune system are more likely to experience consequences. Potential risks include the following:

Infection

Sources of infection in knee replacement surgery can arise from various origins. Infection occurs at the incision site or in the tissue. It can also occur in the patient's skin, the surgical instruments, the operating room environment, and even systemic factors such as compromised immune responses.

Blood Clot.

Blood clots, which can be deadly, can develop in the veins of the legs after knee replacement surgery. Medication that thins the blood can lower this risk.

Heart Attack/Stroke.

The risk of a heart attack rises in the first two weeks after joint replacement surgery. but dropped to background levels after that. The highest risk seen in people over 80Nerve damage.

Although rare, nerve damage can occur in the implant area. Nerve damage causes weakness, numbness, and pain.

Blood Issues or Immune Response.

An immune response to the prosthetic material is conceivable and is more likely to happen when it contains plastic. When utilizing metal prosthesis, metal residues may enter the bloodstream and cause organ damage, pain, and inflammation.

Dislocation, Loosening, or Joint Failure.

Although prosthetic joints normally last 20 years, loosening may happen if the prosthesis is not firmly attached to the bone after surgery. High-impact activities or more weight might cause joint failure. Dislocation is possible but incredibly uncommon.

Closing Thoughts

Knee replacement surgery offers remarkable benefits in restoring mobility and alleviating pain for patients with severe joint issues. However, weighing these benefits against potential risks, such as infection and complications, is essential. To ensure the best outcomes, entrusting your care to a skilled knee replacement surgeon in Delhi is crucial.

For those seeking the best knee replacement surgeon in Delhi NCR, Neemtree Healthcare is a reputable institution known for its expertise and patient-centric approach. Your journey to improved joint health and quality of life finds reliable support with Neemtree Healthcare.

 

Also Read: Knee Replacement Surgery: The Ultimate Dos And Don'ts For A Successful Recovery!

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Dr. Pankaj Bajaj

Orthopedics
MBBS, MCh orthopedics , DNB orthopedics , MS orthopedics

Know Your Doctor Extensive experience of more than 25 years in......read more