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Knee Replacement

Knee Replacement Surgery - Procedure & Benefits at Curific Health Care

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    What is Knee Replacement Surgery?

    Knee replacement surgery, also known as arthroplasty or total knee replacement, involves replacing a damaged or worn knee joint with an artificial one. This procedure is typically performed when a patient has severe arthritis or a significant knee injury that causes pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. During the surgery, metal and plastic components are used to cap the ends of the bones that form the knee joint, including the kneecap.

    Knee replacement surgery aims to alleviate pain, improve mobility, and enhance the quality of life for patients. Most individuals experience a significant reduction in pain and improvement in physical function, vitality, and social interactions following the surgery. The procedure generally leads to better mobility and a more active lifestyle, with fewer limitations due to knee problems.

    Curific Health Care – Best Healthcare Centre for Knee Replacement Surgery ?

    Total Knee Replacement Surgery

    In total knee replacement (TKR) surgery, both sides of the knee joint are replaced. The surgeon removes damaged cartilage and bone from the knee and replaces them with a metal and plastic implant to restore the knee’s alignment and function. This procedure typically takes 1-3 hours and is usually recommended for patients with widespread damage across the entire knee joint due to conditions like severe arthritis.

    Partial Knee Replacement Surgery

    Partial knee replacement (PKR) involves replacing only one side (medial or lateral) of the knee joint, either the inside or outside compartment. A smaller incision is made to access the affected area, and the damaged cartilage and bone in the targeted compartment are removed and replaced with an artificial joint. Partial knee replacement requires less bone and soft tissue dissection, making it less invasive and less taxing on the body compared to total knee replacement. It is typically recommended for patients with localized damage in the knee joint.

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      Knee Replacement Surgery at Curific Health Care

      How to Prepare For Knee Replacement Surgery?

      Knee replacement surgery is a major procedure, so it’s crucial to prepare well in advance to reduce the chances of complications. Here are some common tips to follow:

      1. Discuss Your Medical History

      It is important to share your complete medical history with your healthcare provider. This helps them gain a comprehensive understanding of your overall health, including information about any medications you are currently taking.

      2. Medication Adjustments

      Certain medications, particularly blood thinners, should be avoided for some time before the surgery, as they can increase the risk of bleeding during the procedure.

      3. Blood Tests

      Blood tests may be required to check for any bleeding tendencies or medical conditions that could affect your ability to undergo surgery.

      4. Anesthesia Considerations

      Generally, local anesthesia is not used for knee replacement surgery. However, if you are allergic to any anesthetics (e.g., lidocaine), make sure to inform your healthcare provider beforehand.

      5. Avoid Cosmetics or Topical Medications

      Do not apply any cosmetics, deodorants, or topical medications to the area of the surgery prior to the procedure, as these may interfere with sterile conditions.

      6. Quit Smoking and Nicotine Use

      It is advisable to quit smoking and using nicotine products for a period before surgery, as they can interfere with healing and increase the risk of complications.

      7. Avoid Alcohol

      Avoid consuming alcoholic beverages in the days leading up to the surgery, as alcohol can increase the risk of complications during and after the procedure.

      8. Fasting Before Surgery

      It is important to avoid eating or drinking at least 8 hours before the surgery to reduce the risk of anesthesia-related complications.

      9. Managing Diabetes

      If you are diabetic, it’s crucial to maintain your blood sugar levels within the normal range. Your healthcare provider may suggest insulin or oral medication to help control your blood sugar levels before surgery.

      Following these guidelines will help ensure a smoother surgery and recovery process. Be sure to discuss any specific concerns or requirements with your healthcare provider.

      Dangers of Delaying Knee Replacement Surgery

      Patients often delay knee replacement surgery due to fears about the procedure or concerns regarding the recovery process. However, delaying the surgery can lead to a range of complications, including:

      1. Increased Knee Pain

      As the condition worsens, knee pain tends to intensify, making daily activities more difficult and uncomfortable.

      2. Further Damage to the Joint

      Delaying surgery can cause more damage to the knee joint. The continued wear and tear on the cartilage and bones may make the surgery more complex and recovery slower.

      3. Reduced Mobility and Function

      The longer you wait, the more difficult it becomes to maintain the knee’s mobility. This leads to a reduced ability to walk, move freely, and perform basic tasks.

      4. Serious Consequences

      Prolonged delays in surgery may lead to severe limitations in your ability to walk, work, or engage in normal daily activities. If left untreated, these issues can have long-lasting impacts on your quality of life.

      How the Surgery Becomes More Complex

      If knee replacement surgery is continually delayed, several factors may make the procedure more complicated:

      • Longer Surgical Procedure: As the condition worsens, the surgery may take longer to perform due to increased damage to the knee joint.

      • Kneecap Resurfacing: In more advanced cases, resurfacing of the kneecap may be required, which adds complexity to the procedure.

      • Knee Deformity: Delaying the surgery can result in deformities, making it more challenging to replace the joint effectively.

      • Limited Options: Early in the condition, a patient may only need a partial knee replacement, which is less complex. However, delaying the procedure could lead to the need for a full knee replacement, a more intricate procedure with a longer recovery time.

      It is essential to consult with your healthcare provider to evaluate the potential risks of delaying knee replacement surgery and to consider the long-term benefits of timely intervention.

      In What Conditions Is Knee Replacement Surgery Required?

      Knee replacement surgery is typically recommended when conservative treatments no longer provide relief and the knee condition significantly affects daily functioning. Some common conditions where knee replacement surgery may be necessary include:

      • Painful movement: When basic activities like walking, climbing stairs, or getting up become painful.
      • Ineffective treatments: When medications and other treatments fail to provide relief from pain or stiffness.
      • Stiffness and swelling: If the knee remains stiff and swollen, limiting your range of motion and ability to move freely.
      • Persistent pain: If you experience constant pain throughout the day, even when at rest.
      • Severe cartilage damage: When the knee cartilage is so worn down that you are walking “bone on bone,” causing the joint bones to scrape against each other, resulting in significant pain and reduced mobility.

      If any of these conditions apply, your healthcare provider may suggest knee replacement surgery to improve quality of life, reduce pain, and restore knee function.

      Postoperative Care After Knee Replacement Surgery

      After knee replacement surgery, following the correct postoperative care is crucial to ensure a smooth recovery, avoid complications, and help the artificial knee last longer. Here are the key precautions:

      • Wound care: The surgical site will have sutures or staples that need proper care. Do not attempt to cut or remove them yourself; this should be done by a healthcare professional to avoid worsening the wound.

      • Avoiding blood clots: The first few weeks after surgery are critical as there is a risk of developing blood clots. Your doctor may prescribe anticoagulants to prevent this. Keep an eye out for symptoms of blood clots, such as swelling, redness, pain in the calf, or irritation at the surgical site.

      • Limited physical activities: Initially, avoid putting full body weight on the new joint. Your doctor will give guidelines on how much pressure can be applied. In the early recovery phase, crutches, walkers, or canes are typically recommended. Additional activity restrictions may include:

        • Avoid crossing or twisting your legs
        • Don’t stand for long periods
        • Avoid excessive kneeling
        • Avoid sleeping on the side of the operated knee
        • Climb only one stair at a time

      • Pain management: It is common to experience some pain after the surgery. Doctors usually prescribe pain-relieving medications, which may include opioids, NSAIDs, or acetaminophen. A combination of these medications can help manage pain while reducing the reliance on opioids.

      • Diet: Loss of appetite is common during the recovery period. Eating a balanced diet, along with iron supplements, is essential to aid healing and restore muscle strength. Your doctor may recommend specific dietary adjustments based on your individual needs.

      • Avoiding falls: Take extra care while walking during the recovery period. A fall could damage the knee and possibly require further surgery. Until your knee has regained strength, use a cane, crutches, or walker, and avoid stairs until you have improved balance and mobility.

      By adhering to these guidelines and consulting your doctor regularly, you can help ensure a smoother recovery and long-term success of your knee replacement surgery.

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