Everything About Knee Replacement: Types, Recovery & Myths

Knee replacement surgery is a proven solution for individuals who suffer from severe knee pain due to conditions such as osteoarthritis and other injuries. The procedure is extremely helpful for those individuals who want to restore function, relieve pain and improve the overall mobility. However, a major consideration is the knee replacement surgery cost, which differs from location, technique and type of implants.

For example, in Kolkata, knee replacement cost generally ranges between ₹1.5 lakhs and ₹3 lakhs, making it an affordable option compared to other regions. Despite a significant financial consideration, long-term benefits include improved mobility and a reduction in pain.

In this blog, we will explore the prominent types of knee replacements, the surgical procedure, and critical factors to consider when planning for knee replacement.

Key Takeaways:

• Knee replacement surgery helps in restoring mobility and decreases pain through total, partial and robotic-assisted procedures, depending on patient requirements.
• Effective recovery requires regular physiotherapy, medication, and exercises.
• Maintaining balanced nutrition with weight control helps in faster recovery and long-term knee strength.

7 Types of Knee Replacement You Should Know About

Knee replacement procedures vary depending on the extent of overall joint damage and the specific requirements of a patient. There is a wide range of knee replacement options to choose from, and the differences are based on how much of the knee joint is replaced.

Here are some of the prominent knee replacement procedures that you can choose from:

1. Total Knee Replacement (TKR)

Total knee replacement (TKR) is a type of knee replacement surgery where the surgeon uses an artificial implant to replace the entire knee joint. Patients suffering from severe arthritis and extensive knee injury usually undergo such treatment procedures.

Benefits:

• Decreases overall pain and enhances the function of the injured knee joints.
• Enhances the mobility and repairs abnormalities.
• Modern prosthetics can be beneficial for patients and provide a long-term solution which may last up to a decade.

Why does it work?
Total knee replacement surgery is a beneficial option if you suffer from rheumatoid arthritis or advanced osteoarthritis, which typically affects the entire knee. It can also be helpful if you have a discomfort that hinders your everyday life. Patients previously undergone non-surgical techniques can also benefit from such surgical procedures.

2. Partial Knee Replacement

Partial knee replacement surgery, also known as unicompartmental knee replacement, involves only the replacement of the affected area of the knee. You may prefer such a surgical procedure if your arthritis is restricted to a single knee compartment.

Benefits:

• The process involves the use of a smaller incision, which leads to less pain and lower amounts of tissue damage.
• Partial knee replacement surgery is an optimal method to maintain the original structure and form of your knee without distorting the range of motion.
• The process is relatively simple and usually involves a quick recovery process for patients.

Why does it work?
A specialised surgical method which is suitable for such patients whose arthritis is confined to a single knee compartment. It is also beneficial for patients with undamaged ligaments and suitable for younger patients in the early stages of knee degeneration.

3. Quad Sparing Knee Replacement

It is also known as minimally invasive knee replacement, which is a type of knee surgical procedure that generally avoids severing the quadriceps tendon. The surgery involves the use of specialised tools and minimal incisions to reduce the chances of tissue disruptions.

Benefits:

• The procedure involves reduced blood loss and smaller scarring during surgical procedures.
• The process is highly beneficial for patients as there is less tissue damage and minimal scarring.
• Patients undergone this knee replacement surgery can return to physical therapy and regular activities quickly.

Why does it work?

Quad sparing knee replacement surgery is a beneficial strategy for those individuals with minor deformities and healthy quadriceps muscles. If you are someone who seeks quick recovery and a less invasive surgery technique.

4. Bilateral Knee Replacement

Bilateral knee replacement is also known as the simultaneous replacement of both the knee joints of a patient, commonly used for patients with severe bilateral knee arthritis. Both traditional and minimally invasive approaches are used for bilateral knee replacement, which heavily depends on the specific joint condition and patient health.

Benefits:

• The process involves the replacement of both knees and therefore provides a better functional outcome and pain relief than traditional methods. The procedure is best-suited to gain mobility within a stipulated time frame.
• Bilateral knee replacement surgery has a shorter rehabilitation period, and patients benefit from a single recovery phase, which allows them to return to their normal activities sooner.
• Bilateral knee replacement surgery is conducted in one session; therefore, it minimises the potential risks of enhanced exposure to anaesthesia.

Why does it work?

The surgery is effective for those individuals with degenerative joint disease in both knees. Research suggests that bilateral knee replacement results in long-term positive outcomes, such as enhanced knee function and improved quality of life.

5. Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement

Robotic knee replacement surgery is similar to a traditional procedure, where the surgeon removes the damaged tissues in your knees and replaces them with artificial joints. However, the entire process is conducted using a robotic arm to assist the surgeon with greater precision.

Benefits:

• Robotic knee replacement involves the use of specialised 3D images, which are responsible for preparation and during surgery. These images help surgeons develop enhanced surgical planning and plan the optimal type and placement of replacement joints to ensure the right size and fit for surgical procedures.
• Computer-guided robotic knee replacement allows arthopedic surgeons to conduct precise planning for the surgery, along with accurate implant placement and effortless tissue removal.
• Surgeons can efficiently align the position of your knee implant with robotics to ensure a natural-feeling joint replacement to create less wear and friction in joints.

Why does it work?

Robotic-assisted knee replacement provides enhanced control over the surgical procedure, and it allows to make real-time adjustments for implants to remain within an optimal alignment. The surgery helps accelerate both short- and long-term functionality of your knees.

Next, let’s explore the stepwise process for a knee replacement surgery typically employed by a surgeon.

Step-by-Step Guide for Knee Replacement Surgery

Knee replacement surgery involves the complete replacement of a damaged knee joint with artificial implants to restore its complete capacity and function. The procedure is recommended for patients with sustained traumatic knee injuries, rheumatoid arthritis, and osteoarthritis.

Here is a stepwise guide that simplifies the complex process of knee replacement surgery:

Step 1: Creating a Knee Incision

The first step is to make an incision across the front of the knee to gain control over the kneecap. In most cases, the incisions are about 8 inches; however, they may be between 4 and 6 inches for minimally invasive surgeries.

Step 2: Rotation of the Kneecap (Patella)

The next step is to expose the kneecap, and the surgeon rotates it to gain access to the area which needs surgical procedures.

Step 3: Preparation for the Thighbone (Femur)

In this step, the surgeon will resurface the femur, and upon exposure of it, the surgeon can measure the bones and make a precise cut using special instruments. The damaged bone and cartilage are then removed, and the femur is resurfaced to fit the artificial knee component.

Step 4: Implantation of the Femoral Component

The surgeon carefully attaches the femoral component to the end of your femur at this step and uses bone cement to seal it into the prescribed location. The process is critical to maintain the alignment and function of the demoral component.

Step 5: Preparation and Implantation of the Tibial Component

In this step, the surgeon resurfaces the tibia, which is commonly known as the shinbone. With precision, the surgeon removes the bone and cartilage from the top of the tibia and then shapes the bone to best fit with the tibial component. The surgeon then inserts a polyethene between the femoral component and tibial tray, which is a buffer to enhance the flexibility of your knee.

Step 6: Readjustment of the Patella and Finalisation

The final step is to flatten the patella to align it with the additional plastic component and ensure appropriate alignment with the rest of the implant. Moreover, cement is used for special cases to fit the plastic component with the bone.

Also read:  Best Orthopaedic Hospital in North Kolkata- Eskag Sanjeevani Hospital

Now, let’s understand the recovery strategies to restore the functionality of the knee after a knee replacement surgery.

Knee Replacement Recovery

In optimal conditions, it takes almost a year to recover from an extensive knee replacement surgery. However, in some cases, the recovery is quick, and you may gain complete functionality for daily activities after six weeks of surgery.

Here’s a comprehensive recovery plan after a knee replacement surgery that your surgeon may provide; however, it is a general roadmap and may differ for different cases.

• Application of ice in knees: Use of ice to reduce inflammation of the knee post-surgery is an effective recovery measure. Usually, a twenty-minute application for ten to fifteen days is best to relieve pain and swelling.
• Extend your knee at an elevated stance: It is best to keep your knee above the level of your heart. Generally, you can use a cushion or a footstool to provide additional support while sitting on a chair.
• Regular exercises: Home exercises are something which most surgeons prescribe for post-surgery to restore the movement of the knees. Such exercises help you perform movements and exercises to enhance the functionality of the knee and prevent stiffness.
• Maintain the cleanliness of the incision: Maintain aseptic conditions for your knee, and it is best to maintain incision care instructions according to the surgeon’s procedure. In most cases, incision sites need regular change of dressing and are safe from infections.
• Physical therapy: It is recommended to work with a physical therapist for up to a few months, which will help you restore the functionality of your knee. Moreover, sessions with your physical therapists can help you start doing extensive tasks such as bending your knees and walking.

Let’s understand the top 5 mistakes after knee replacement that you should avoid for an optimal recovery.

Top 5 Mistakes After Knee Replacement

Knee replacement is an extremely successful type of surgical procedure that relieves the pain and improves the condition of knees with severe rates of arthritis. However, post-surgery, there are several mistakes, such as avoiding pain relief, which patients may commit, which may lead to reduced functionality of the knees.

Here are the top five mistakes which you should avoid for a successful knee replacement surgery:

• Engaging in High-Risk Tasks: Most people often engage in driving after a knee replacement surgery. However, surgeons advise resuming driving and other high-risk activities after six weeks.
• Avoiding Movement Due to Pain: Pain often resumes when there is movement, especially during bending of the knees. Such actions often worsen the condition; therefore, moving regularly is a critical aspect of your recovery plan.
• Disregarding the Pain Relief Plan: A pain relief plan contains medication and physiotherapy exercises which relieve pain. Such plans are often prescribed by healthcare practitioners; however, most people wait to deteriorate their condition of their knees, which disrupts the routine.
• Missing Sessions with Physiotherapists: Physiotherapists are an integral part of your postoperative recovery phases. They are responsible for providing necessary rehabilitation exercise, which is a critical part of your recovery process after a knee replacement surgery.
• Forgetting Medication: A lapse in wound care can lead to infections and further complications, which delay the overall recovery process. Appropriate use of prescribed medication during the recovery stages is vital to reduce pain and manage any form of existing health issues.

Despite the positive impacts of a knee replacement surgery, there are several myths which are common among individuals of all ages.

Common Myths about Knee Replacement

There are several misconceptions associated with knee replacement surgery, which may cause fear and hesitation among most individuals. Therefore, it is important to isolate fact from fiction to make informed decisions regarding treatment and a recovery plan to ensure that expectations align with reality.

Here are some of the common myths and misconceptions people have regarding knee replacement surgery;

Myth 1: Knee Replacement is Restricted for Senior Citizens

There are no age restrictions when it comes to knee replacement, and recommendations for such procedures are due on pain and disability. Most patients undergo knee replacement between 50 and 80 years of age; however, teenagers with juvenile arthritis can also undergo surgery to restore functionality of the knee caps.

Myth 2: I Should Delay Knee Replacement Surgery

Avoiding knee replacement surgery for a long time can lead to severe deterioration of the knee caps and joints, leading to excruciating pain and lack of mobility. Delay in surgical procedures may also reduce the options for knee replacement strategies.

Myth 3: Knee Replacement Surgery Demands Months of Bed Rest

In most cases, knee replacement surgery requires a specific exercise routine to restore the capacity of the knees. It allows for the optimal movement of legs and knees, and the process generally takes approximately three to six weeks following surgery.

Myth 4: Knee Replacement Limits Regular Activities

In most cases, patients can experience a drastic reduction in knee pain and perform high-intensity daily activities. With specific instructions from the doctor, you can start engaging in activities such as walking, swimming, ballroom dancing and low-impact sports.

By debunking these myths, it’s possible to better understand the true potential of knee replacement surgery, especially as advancements continue to shape the future of joint care.

Future Implications of Knee Replacement Surgery

With the development in medical science, advances in implant design, surgical techniques, and post-operative care enhance the overall outcome of knee replacement. With progressing research, patients may benefit from minimally invasive approaches and better recovery performance.

Here are some of the future developments in knee replacement surgery:

• Personalised implants: Recent advancements in 3D imaging and printing technology allow the development of custom prosthetics that fit the knee properly. Such advanced technologies allow for long-term usability and improvement in knee function and alignment.
• Minimal Invasive Techniques (MIS): MIS techniques are becoming advanced with the use of smaller incisions. Such methods are becoming popular to reduce the damage of surrounding tissues and minimise the scarring for a quick rehabilitation process.
• AI Integration: The use of robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) in knee replacement allows surgeons to achieve greater accuracy in the placement of implants. AI-automated decision-making strategies will further enhance the surgical outcomes to reduce human error and to make real-time adjustments for higher efficacy.

When selecting a surgeon, the quality of the hospital is equally important. Consider seeking treatment at some of the best hospitals in Kolkata for optimal care.

Final Thoughts

The outcome of knee replacement surgery depends on the surgeon’s expertise and experience. Several patients worry about selecting a qualified surgeon capable of achieving optimal results. To ensure the best possible outcome, it is essential to consult with a specialist who has a proven record in knee replacement procedures.

Eskag Sanjeevani Group of Hospitals provide the best orthopaedics in Kolkata that has the necessary expertise for specific conditions. The overall success of your knee replacement is directly influenced by the experience and skill of a surgeon. Therefore, choosing the best knee replacement surgeon in Kolkata is crucial for a successful surgery and long-term recovery.