What Is Knee Replacement Surgery?

Knee replacement, also known as knee arthroplasty, is a surgical operation involving the use of metal and plastic elements to cap the ends of the bones that make up the knee joint, as well as the kneecap. The surgery is to take place if the doctor witnesses severe damage in the knee joint utilizing X-Rays. The main goal of the procedure is to realign the damaged parts of the knee joint and alleviate the pain caused by it.

Causes Of Knee Damage

Most commonly caused by severe damage to the knee, it is usually attributed to arthritis – either osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis (OA) is a condition where the flexible part of the tissue, which is the protective cartilage, at the ends of the bone wears down. This degeneration leads to the bones of the knee joint rubbing against each other, causing discomfort, pain and stiffness around the area. When this pain becomes severe and persistent with decreased function of the knee, it is advised that the individual undergoes total knee replacement surgery. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a condition where the immune system of the human body targets its own tissue, including knee joints. When patients have intractable knee discomfort and destructive arthritis in their knee joint that does not respond well to traditional treatment, total knee replacement surgery works the best. Following knee replacement surgery, a period of rehabilitation will be required, which will involve exercise and physiotherapy. The importance of adequate rest, posture, and diet in the rehabilitation process is something we insist on heavily at SPARSH. Spending a little time to take care of it initially is much more effective than coming back to the problem later, trying to fix it again. Though individuals need the procedure, they choose to opt out of it due to various misconceptions that they hear. Through this blog, we aim to educate you about the truths behind 5 of the most common myths about knee replacement surgery.

Debunking Myths Related To Knee Replacement Surgery

• Myth #1: I should continue with medications as long as possible and avoid knee replacement surgery.

Fact: Medicines in case of serious damage only mitigate superficial symptoms for temporary relief. Adding on, medicines come along with their own set of side effects. Advanced arthritis necessitates surgery and cannot be treated with medications. In fact, a number of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients require knee replacement at an early age, which is another bubble burst to the myth of only older people requiring knee replacement surgery. A huge mass of individuals also believe that alternative remedies for severe arthritis and knee pain include acupressure, ozone treatment, massage beds, oils, laser therapy, magnetic therapy, and braces. However, there is no scientific evidence to support the same. Trying these therapies may stall the surgery and temporarily alleviate the pain, but would not cure the condition.

• Myth #2: After knee replacement, I’ll have to give up some activities and sports along with driving.

Fact: In 6 to 12 weeks, you should be able to resume activities such as brisk walking or cycling; nevertheless, contact sports should be avoided. Squatting and sitting cross-legged is permissible, but should be limited to ensure the implant lasts as long as feasible. Driving on the other hand gets easier after knee replacement surgery. Within 6-8 weeks of surgery, a majority of patients can drive.

• Myth #3: I cannot get my knee replacement done the second time.

Fact: Through Revision Joint Replacement Surgery, knee replacement can be done for the second time as well. Though it is a little more complicated, it is not completely out of the question.

• Myth #4: Knee replacement is similar to kidney or liver transplants – removing an entire knee and replacing it with a new one.

Fact: Knee replacement is colloquially knee repair where the worn-out surfaces of the bones are removed and replaced by an artificial one in the form of a metal. Usually, only 8-9 mm is replaced.

• Myth #5: Knee replacement can only last for 10 years.

Fact: With advancements in technology and medical equipment, the endurance for knee replacements has increased significantly. For a lot of people, it has been noted to last for around 20-25 years and in some cases, even for a lifetime. Signs of damage to your knee should not be ignored at any cost. Before the severity of the damage increases to more than the barred limit, one should get checked and follow the guidelines as advised by the doctor. Because of advancements in technology and clinician knowledge, the hazards connected with knee replacement surgery have mostly been eradicated. Just like conditions differ from patient to patient based on their situation, the way hospitals decide the course of action for the surgery matters and varies.At SPARSH Hospital, Bangalore, our expert orthopaedics have years of experience across different hospitals and countries in knee replacement surgeries. Due to their dedication to the field, SPARSH Hospital is one of the best knee replacement surgery hospitals in Bangalore and India, with people placing their trust in us. We’re here to deliver the hope, faith and love that is placed on us. If you wish to book an appointment, click here.