Frequently Asked Questions
Q. When do doctors recommend a knee replacement surgery?
If there are damages or knee stiffness related issues due to ligament tears, arthritis (osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis), fractures, tendonitis or torn cartilage injuries etc. the doctors then recommend Knee Replacement Surgery.
Any chronic pain in the knees should not be ignored. A proper diagnosis is required to detect the issue and prolonging any such issue may just further damage the knees and its condition.
Q. What’s the self-indicator that we need a Knee Replacement Surgery?
There are so many signals we get before the situation worsens about a severe situation which our knees go through. However, they are mistaken as a regular thing that happens due to growing age, post an injury, lifestyle disorder etc. However never ignore the following signs:
- A sever pain in the knee(s) that interferes in our regular activities of the day like walking,
- Standing, taking upstairs, sitting, crossing our legs.
- Due to growing age if there’s a pain in the knees each time while doing daily chores.
- If there has been any deformation due to an injury or trauma.
- When any other alternative methods like physiotherapy, cortisone injections or lubricating injections just won’t subside the pain and the same condition which seems to have improved surfaces again.
- Any other medication or therapy is never enough to completely cure the knees and the pain.
Q. Is knee surgery done for both or one knee at a time?
There are broadly 4 types of Knee Replacement Surgeries in correspondence to condition of the knees.
We should consult an experienced surgeon /orthopedic and go in for a surgery if he advises so. The doctor may suggest any of the following surgeries as per the condition of the knee
- Partial or Unicomparmental Knee Replacement Surgery
- Revision or complex Knee Replacement Surgery
- Kneecap Knee Replacement Surgery or Patellofemoral
- Total Knee Replacement Surgery
Q. What’s the usual success rate of a Knee Replacement Surgery?
The Knee Replacement Surgery is a common surgery which has been done since a long time as measure to reverse any damages that have already happened to the knees. There are surgeons who have performed endless successful surgeries over decades.
The success rate is 90%-95%. The recuperation period is short and patients may not have any severe pain which is of major concern. The success rate depends on the type of the surgery, the extent of damage and most importantly the extent of damage.
Q. The type of the Knee Replacement Surgery depends on a proper diagnosis. How is the diagnosis carried out?
The orthopedic doctor examines the patient physically and understands the areas of pain, any pain related facts and history. A few clinical tests may also be prescribed like: X-ray, CT-Scan, MRI scan, a lab test for rheumatoid factor to decide the course of action.
Q. Is the Knee Replacement Surgery painful? Keeping pain as one factor, is it advisable for old aged patients?
Knee Replacement Surgery is performed under general anesthesia, which makes the surgery absolutely painless. Discomfort may be experienced after the surgery which is taken care by oral medicines prescribed by the doctor.
Q. Is it advisable to drive after the Knee Replacement Surgery?
It’s a commonly circulated myth that driving is not possible after the surgery. In fact, the movement becomes more comfortable and smoother after the surgery. However, it should be done only after the doctor gives a go ahead. The recovery process may take around 6-8 months.
Q. Is there a way to expedite the recovery after the Knee Replacement Surgery?
Ideally the recovery should not be rushed. Following all the guidelines prescribed by the doctor would only ensure complete and proper healing.
The doctors may advise a list of precautions to prevent any damage and to promote healing:
- Avoid any direct pressure on the joints.
- Avoid sitting on low furniture.
- Use a support to walk post-surgery.
- Avoid sitting with crossed legs, squatting or any jerks.
- Religiously follow the follow-ups.