5 Most Common Knee Injuries and Treatment

knee replacement surgery in Chennai
Table of Contents

Your knees are vital for mobility and have a lot of moving parts. These are the largest joints in the body and it gets most easily injured as it is composed of ligaments, tendons, bones, and cartilage. So, when injuries occur, they can lead to weakness or pain in the joint where your activities get limited. 

If the pain is minimal, most of them can be cured by physical therapy and medications but when there are complex injuries, it is essential to approach the orthopaedic hospital in Bharath Orthopaedics for getting the best knee replacement surgery in Chennai.

Symptoms of Knee Injury

If you experience any of these following symptoms, you are most likely to have one of the common knee injuries. They include:

  • Pain
  • Tenderness
  • Swelling
  • Instability
  • Bruising
  • Difficulty to bear weight
  • Trouble bending the knees
  • Clicking or popping noises
  • Difficulty moving

These symptoms can vary from individual to individual depending on the type of the severity of the injury. For instance, acute knee injuries may cause more pain and swelling whereas chronic injury or injury due to overuse may cause intermittent pain, clicking, or popping. Mostly for acute knee injuries, you may be required to opt for the best knee replacement surgery in Chennai. 

knee replacement surgery in chennai | Bharath Orthopaedics

Risk Factors of Knee Injuries

The different factors that can cause the risk of a knee injury may be because:

  • Age – Elderly people are at high risk of getting knee injuries as it can be due to falls and diseases like osteoporosis.
  • Sports – High-impact sports like running, cycling, soccer, basketball, football, and others can increase the risk of knee pain or injury and if it gets worsened, the best knee replacement surgery in Chennai is recommended to resume normal activities.
  • Disease – Arthritis, osteoporosis, gout, or degenerative joint disease can cause knee injuries such as bursitis.
  • Gender – Women are most susceptible to patellar injuries and ACLs due to their anatomy.
  • Weight – Excess weight adds additional strain on low extremity joint replacement surgery and also creates a greater risk of a knee injury.
  • Overuse – If you are overusing or overstraining your knee besides training incorrectly, during sports and other activities, there is an increased risk of a knee injury which can lead to the best knee replacement surgery in Chennai.

5 Most Common Knee Injuries and Treatment

The knee joint can suffer severe damage during almost any activity, even while sitting down. Here’s what you should know about the 5 most common knee injuries and their treatment.

Meniscal Tears

The meniscus is a thin cartilage rim that acts as a cushion for the knee joint replacement. The meniscus may become ruptured or torn in an athletic or other injury and in turn causes severe pain, tenderness, swelling, and a limited range of motion.

Meniscus tears don’t often heal by themselves but respond quickly to physical therapy and other conservative treatments. Arthroscopic knee replacement surgery in Chennai may be necessary for the most severe tears.

Fractures

As you must have known, the three bones – the thigh bone, the shin bone, and the kneecap together make up the knee. If any of these bones can break during a car accident, a fall, or an indirect trauma, the fractured bone can cause heavy pain, severe tenderness, and swelling as well as it can lead to difficulty in walking.

Stable fractures can heal by themselves by taking several weeks or months once set in a cast. On the other hand, displaced fractures require the best knee replacement surgery in Chennai from the orthopaedics hospital to reset the bones. In both cases, recovery will require an extensive physical therapy program for strengthening the joint and regaining the full range of motion.

ACL Injuries

The ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) is considered to be one of the four important knee ligaments which help in stabilizing the knee. The ACL may tear due to a sudden shift of force or direction like sports injuries. A partial or complete tear can cause pain, swelling, knee instability, and a popping sound in the knee.

While partial tears can be treated conservatively in less active patients, active patients suffering from partial or complete tears need arthroscopic knee replacement surgery in Chennai to regain knee joint function.

Dislocations

The patella or kneecap may become dislodged at the bottom of the femur starting from the groove. This is referred to as dislocation and as a result of this, it can cause acute or chronic injury. 

If there is severe pain and swelling with restricted motion, then the patient has to check with the orthopaedic surgeon and go for total knee replacement surgery. Most of the patellar dislocations can be stabilized with bracing and result but a repeatedly dislocated kneecap may require best knee replacement surgery in Chennai.

Tendon Tears

The patellar tendon is the tissue that is responsible for connecting the thigh muscles to the patella. It allows you to straighten and flex your knee. It might become ruptured because of a strong or sudden force, and tear upon an awkward landing or a fall. Partial tears can be treated conservatively with the help of a brace and physical therapy. But a full tear will require the best knee replacement surgery in Chennai.

Both athletes and non-athletes will suffer from a knee injury. If you suffer from acute or chronic knee pain, it is recommended to consult with an experienced orthopaedic surgeon as he/she can help you recover completely.

Treatments for Knee Injuries

With the exception of a severe tear or an obvious fracture that requires the best knee replacement surgery in Chennai, other knee injuries are often treated conservatively with compression, elevation, rest, or anti-inflammatory medications. 

If these treatments don’t provide enough pain relief and progress, the patient has to go for knee arthroscopy, a minimally invasive procedure where the surgeon uses a camera to repair the injured knee. If knee problems become chronic, you have to approach the best orthopaedic hospital that provides knee replacements with affordable knee replacement surgery cost Chennai.

TKR (Total Knee Replacement)

Total Knee Relief (TKR) is performed by removing the damaged part of the bones that make up the joint and replacing them with essence implants to advance the required support. The best knee replacement in Chennai procedure comes with its own set of pitfalls, and is, thus, carried out only on those cases for whom it’s absolutely necessary.

Prior to total knee relief, you’ll be needed to do many tests to ensure that you’re an applicable seeker for the procedure. This pre-surgical evaluation will be carried out many weeks before the surgery. occasionally, you’ll be needed to perform preoperative strengthening exercises or suffer weight loss before the procedure to enhance surgery results.

Procedures or Steps Involved in Knee Replacement Surgery

Knee replacement surgery, also known as knee arthroplasty, is a major surgical procedure that involves replacing the damaged parts of a knee joint with an artificial implant to relieve pain and improve function. Here are the steps involved in the best knee replacement surgery in Chennai and what you can expect before, during, and after the procedure.

Before Knee Replacement Surgery

Before the best knee replacement surgery in Chennai, your doctor will conduct a thorough medical evaluation to determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure. You may need to undergo several tests, including X-rays, MRI, and blood tests, to evaluate the condition of your knee joint and overall health. Your doctor may also ask you to stop taking certain medications that can interfere with the surgery or increase the risk of bleeding.

You will also receive detailed instructions on how to prepare for the surgery. This may include stopping food and drink at a specific time before the surgery, stopping certain medications, and arranging for transportation home after the surgery.

During Knee Replacement Surgery

The best knee replacement surgery in Chennai typically takes about two hours to complete, but the length of the surgery may vary depending on the complexity of the case. The surgery is performed under anesthesia, which may be general anesthesia or regional anesthesia, depending on your medical condition and preference.

The surgeon will make an incision on the front of your knee and carefully remove the damaged parts of the knee joint. They will then position the artificial implant in the knee joint and use specialized instruments to fix it in place. The implant may be cemented in place or designed to bond directly to the bone over time.

After the implant has been positioned, the surgeon will close the incision with sutures or staples and apply a sterile dressing over the wound. A drain may also be placed to remove excess fluid from the surgical area.

Knee Replacement In Chennai

After Knee Replacement Surgery

After the surgery, you will be taken to a recovery room where you will be monitored closely by the medical team. Pain medication and antibiotics may be administered to help manage pain and prevent infection. You will also receive instructions on how to care for the surgical incision and how to perform exercises to help regain strength and mobility in your knee.

You may need to stay in the hospital for a few days to a week, depending on your medical condition and the progress of your recovery. During this time, you will work with physical therapists to regain strength and mobility in your knee joint.

And also, follow a strict rehabilitation plan after the surgery to help ensure a successful outcome. This may include performing exercises at home, attending physical therapy sessions, and avoiding certain activities that can put excessive strain on your knee joint.

It is normal to experience some pain and discomfort after knee replacement surgery, but your doctor can prescribe pain medications to help manage your symptoms. You may also experience some swelling and bruising around the surgical incision, but this should gradually subside over time. 

With proper preparation, care, and rehabilitation, many people are able to return to their normal activities with less pain and greater mobility after getting the best knee replacement surgery in Chennai.

Best Knee Replacement in Chennai

Dr. L. Bharath has pioneered smart knee replacement technologies to ensure painless, fast recovery, quick rehabilitation, and a lesser chance of infection after surgery. Their team of dedicated and highly qualified orthopaedic surgeons, nurses, and staff are committed to providing the best possible care to their patients, from the intake to bedside manner to post-operative care. Dr. L. Bharath is the best for Knee Replacement in Chennai.

Read also Joint Reconstruction Surgery.

10 Essential Questions to Ask Your Doctor Before Undergoing Knee Replacement

There are many effects that you need to do prior to the surgery if you’re considering knee replacement. First, make sure that your surgery is carried out only by a knee specialist. Once you are aware of it, you can ask your ortho specialist the following questions:

What are the complications of having a knee replacement?

Healthy knees are necessary for balance and to perform several diurnal conditionings. The knee joint, which is the biggest joint in the mortal body, can be damaged by arthritis or injuries. When specifics and props are no longer effective in damage control, a total knee relief surgery(arthroplasty) may be carried out as a safe option to relieve pain and disfigurement.

Any surgery is parlous and so is knee replacement in Chennai. It’s the duty of the doctor to tell you about the benefits of surgery and also about the pitfalls involved, including the anesthetic that will be used (epidural, dreamy), chances of infection and procedural failure, heart problems, whim-whams injury around the knee, implant affiliated problems, stroke and indeed death. In order to make the right decision it’s important to be apprehensive of the pitfalls and complications.

Can you tell me what will happen during the surgery?

During knee surgery, the patient is given anesthesia to prevent pain and remains unconscious. The surgeon makes an incision in the knee and repairs or replaces the damaged tissues or components of the knee joint, such as cartilage, ligaments, and bones. The surgery may last a few hours, and after the procedure, the patient may need physical therapy to regain full mobility.

What kind of an implant will be used?

You can ask your ortho doctor about the nature of the implant and how successful it has been with other cases. Doctors generally tell you not to do emphatic conditioning after a knee replacement as implants are subject to wear and tear and gash.

There are four different types of knee relief implants,

  • Essence on plastic – the most common, thanks to its life, price, and safety record. 
  • Essence on the essence – not as common a moment due to enterprises of essence seeping into the bloodstream, causing inflammation and pain.
  • Ceramic on plastic – using a ceramic femoral element rather than the essence, this is suitable for people who are sensitive to nickel.
  • Ceramic on ceramic – both femoral and tibial corridors are made of ceramic, which is the least likely to beget responses.

What are the types of knee replacement?

There are several types of knee replacement procedures, including:

1. Total Knee Replacement (TKR).

2. Partial Knee Replacement (PKR).

3. Knee Revision Surgery.

4. Bilateral Knee Replacement.

5. Custom Knee Replacement.

6. Minimally Invasive Knee Replacement.

Will I have to endure pain?

Pain operation is part of the post-surgical proceedings. Several pain killers andante-inflammatory medicines which also include NSAIDS will be used to control pain.

How long will recuperation take?

It is important to understand that the process of returning to your normal life after surgery will not be a quick one. You will likely need to spend several days in the hospital followed by a period of rehabilitation at home.

How soon can I start doing things normally?

It may be necessary to use crutches or walking aids for a period of time after surgery. Engaging in physical activity is essential to regain strength, flexibility, and balance. The time required to return to normal activities varies among individuals and depends on the healing process and the success of the surgical procedure in managing pain.

What will happen if I prolong the surgery?

No pain can be experienced overnight, but with time the pain in your knee is likely to reach the top. Else, there will be continued loss of strength in the knee common area, leading to a problem in maintaining balance.

What would happen if I had to put off surgery for the next 6 to 12 months?

Delaying knee surgery for another 6 to 12 months could lead to a worsening of the knee condition, resulting in increased pain, stiffness, and decreased range of motion. It may also lead to further damage to the joint, making it harder to perform the surgery successfully. It is advisable to consult with a medical professional to determine the best course of action.

Do I have to make any special adaptations to my home?

It is important to ensure that you have a low-level bed that you can use for the initial weeks after surgery. If your home has stairs, it is advisable to declutter and remove any obstacles to minimize the risk of tripping and injuring your newly operated knee while moving around. Installing handrails on both sides of stairs and steps in your home, as well as in the shower or bathtub, can provide additional support and stability during the recovery period.

When Should You Consider Knee Replacement Surgery? 

Typically, getting the best knee replacement surgery in Chennai is considered when conservative treatment options, such as medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications have failed to provide relief from knee pain and dysfunction.

There are several factors to consider when determining if the best knee replacement surgery in Chennai is appropriate:

Severe Knee Pain: If you are experiencing severe knee pain that limits your ability to perform daily activities, such as walking, climbing stairs, or getting up from a chair, despite conservative treatments, it may be time to consider the best knee replacement surgery in Chennai. Persistent pain that affects your quality of life and hinders your ability to engage in regular activities can be an indication that the joint is significantly damaged and may require surgical intervention.

Decreased Knee Function: If your knee is significantly limited in terms of the range of motion, stability, and function, and these limitations persist despite conservative treatments, knee replacement surgery may be considered. This is especially relevant if the reduced function of the knee joint is interfering with your ability to perform work or participate in recreational activities.

Radiographic Evidence of Joint Damage: X-rays or other imaging studies that reveal significant joint damage, such as bone-on-bone contact, joint deformity, or cartilage loss, may suggest that knee replacement surgery is needed. These findings indicate that the joint has deteriorated to a point where conservative treatments are unlikely to be effective in providing long-term relief.

Failed Conservative Treatments: If you have exhausted conservative treatment options, such as medication, physical therapy, injections, and other non-surgical interventions, and your knee pain and dysfunction persist, knee replacement surgery may be considered as the next step in your treatment plan.

What Happens During a Knee Replacement Surgery? 

Knee replacement surgery is performed by an orthopedic surgeon and is done under general anesthesia or spinal anesthesia. The specific details of the surgery may vary depending on the patient’s condition and the surgeon’s approach, but the general steps involved in the best knee replacement surgery in Chennai are as follows:

Incision: The surgeon makes an incision over the knee, typically along the front or side of the knee, to gain access to the joint.

Removal of Damaged Bone and Cartilage: The surgeon removes the damaged bone and cartilage from the ends of the femur (thighbone) and tibia (shinbone) using specialized surgical instruments. This creates space for artificial components.

Implantation of Artificial Components: The surgeon then implants the artificial components, which typically consist of a metal femoral component that replaces the end of the femur, a metal tibial component that replaces the top of the tibia, and a plastic spacer that goes between the two components to allow for smooth movement of the joint.

Patellar Resurfacing: In some cases, during the best knee replacement surgery in Chennai, the undersurface of the patella (kneecap) may be resurfaced with a plastic component to improve its movement and reduce friction.

Closure: Once the artificial components are securely in place, the surgeon closes the incision with stitches or staples.

Recovery and Rehabilitation: After surgery, the patient is monitored in the recovery room and then transferred to a hospital room. Physical therapy and rehabilitation begin soon after surgery to help with joint mobility, strength, and functional recovery.

Post-Operative Care: The patient will be given pain medications, antibiotics, and other medications as needed, and will be instructed on post-operative care, including wound care, activity restrictions, and follow-up appointments with the surgeon.

What are the advantages of Knee replacement surgery?

Knee replacement surgery is a medical procedure that involves the removal of damaged or worn-out cartilage and bone from the knee joint, followed by the implantation of an artificial joint made of metal, plastic, or ceramic. The main advantages of knee replacement surgery include:

Pain Relief: Knee replacement surgery is typically recommended for patients who experience chronic knee pain that does not respond to other forms of treatment. By removing damaged tissue and replacing it with an artificial joint, the surgery can provide significant pain relief and improve mobility.

Improved Mobility: Knee replacement surgery can help improve mobility and range of motion in the knee joint, allowing patients to perform activities of daily living with greater ease and less discomfort.

Increased Quality of Life: Many patients who undergo knee replacement surgery report an improvement in their overall quality of life, as they are able to engage in activities they previously could not.

Long-Lasting Results: Knee replacement surgery can provide long-lasting results, with many patients experiencing relief from knee pain and improved mobility for up to 20 years or more.

Minimally Invasive Techniques: Advances in surgical techniques have made knee replacement surgery less invasive, resulting in shorter hospital stays, faster recovery times, and fewer complications.

Customized Implants: With the availability of customized implants, knee replacement surgery can be tailored to the specific needs and anatomy of each patient, resulting in a more natural feel and better function of the artificial joint.

It’s important to note that the best knee replacement surgery in Chennai is not without risks, and patients should discuss the potential benefits and risks with their healthcare provider before deciding whether to undergo the procedure.

Can Knee replacement help someone with severe Osteoarthritis?

Yes, knee replacement surgery can be an effective treatment for someone with severe osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that occurs when the cartilage that cushions the joints wears down over time, leading to pain, stiffness, and loss of mobility. When conservative treatments such as pain medications, physical therapy, and weight management are no longer effective, knee replacement surgery may be recommended.

During the best knee replacement surgery in Chennai, the damaged cartilage and bone in the knee joint are removed and replaced with an artificial joint. This can provide significant pain relief, improved mobility, and a better quality of life for patients with severe osteoarthritis.

It’s important to note that knee replacement surgery is not appropriate for everyone, and each patient’s individual case must be evaluated by a healthcare provider. Factors such as age, overall health, and the extent of the osteoarthritis damage must be considered when determining whether knee replacement surgery is the best course of treatment.

Conclusion

To summarize, if your knee has been bothering you, no matter the type of injury or the course of treatment. You can be assured to get a reasonable knee replacement surgery cost Chennai, as the experts at Bharath Orthopaedics can be beneficial for you to overcome the problem and help you resume your routine activities.

Read also Hip Pain Treatment in Chennai.

Frequently Asked Questions

The type of knee replacement surgery that is best for a patient will depend on their individual condition and circumstances. There are several types of knee replacement surgery, including:

  • Total Knee Replacement.
  • Partial Knee Replacement.
  • Minimally Invasive Knee Replacement.
  • Computer-assisted Knee Replacement.

The newest procedure for knee replacement is often referred to as “minimally invasive knee replacement” or “MIS knee replacement”. The goal of this procedure is to minimize damage to the surrounding tissues and muscle and to accelerate the healing process. The procedure typically involves smaller incisions and the use of specialized instruments and implants to reduce the invasiveness of the surgery.

There is no one “best age” for knee replacement surgery as the decision to undergo knee replacement is based on the patient’s individual circumstances and the severity of their knee condition. Knee replacement surgery is typically recommended for patients who have severe knee pain and disability that has not responded to conservative treatments such as medication, physical therapy, or weight loss.

The cost of knee replacement surgery in Tamil Nadu can vary widely depending on factors such as the hospital, the surgeon’s fees, the type of implant used, and the patient’s individual needs. On average, the cost of surgery for knee replacement in Chennai can range from Rs. 2.5 lakhs to Rs. 6 lakhs.

The lifespan of a knee replacement in Chennai varies depending on various factors such as the type of implant, the patient’s activity level, weight, and overall health. On average, a knee replacement can last between 10 to 20 years. Regular follow-up appointments with a doctor and a healthy lifestyle can help to extend the lifespan of the implant.

Like any surgery, knee replacement in Chennai carries some risk. However, with modern surgical techniques and advanced technology, knee replacement is generally considered a safe and effective procedure. The risk of complications such as infection, blood clots, and nerve damage can be minimized by following proper preoperative and postoperative care instructions.