Medically reviewed by Dr. L. Bharath , Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, Bharath Orthopaedics
Joint pain can gradually affect the way a person walks, climbs stairs, sits, stands or carries out everyday activities. Conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, previous joint injuries and age-related changes can damage the cartilage and other structures that support normal joint movement. When symptoms continue or become difficult to manage, an orthopaedic assessment can help identify the cause and appropriate treatment options.
For people looking for a joint replacement surgeon in Purasawalkam, it is important to understand that not every joint problem requires surgery. Depending on the diagnosis and extent of joint damage, treatment may include medication, physiotherapy, activity modification or surgical intervention. Joint replacement may be considered when significant damage causes persistent pain and functional limitations despite suitable non-surgical treatment.
Dr. Bharath Loganathan is an orthopaedic surgeon whose clinical practice includes knee and hip replacement, revision joint replacement and the management of other orthopaedic conditions. Patients can discuss their symptoms, investigations and treatment options during a consultation at the listed Purasawalkam locations.
What is Joint Replacement Surgery?
Joint replacement surgery is a procedure in which damaged joint surfaces are replaced with artificial components called implants. These components are designed to support joint movement and function.
The procedure may be considered when cartilage loss, bone damage or other joint conditions cause persistent pain and restrict normal activities. The type of replacement depends on which joint is affected and how much of the joint has been damaged.
Common types of joint replacement include:
- Knee replacement: Damaged portions of the knee joint are replaced with artificial components. The procedure may be total or partial.
- Hip replacement: Damaged parts of the hip joint are replaced with artificial components to address significant joint damage.
- Shoulder replacement: Damaged surfaces of the shoulder joint are replaced in selected patients with severe arthritis or other joint conditions.
- Elbow replacement: This procedure may be considered for selected cases involving severe arthritis, joint damage or certain injuries.
The recommended procedure depends on the patient’s symptoms, examination findings, imaging results and overall health.
When Should You Consult an Orthopaedic Surgeon for Joint Problems?
Joint pain can have several causes, and its severity does not always indicate the extent of joint damage. However, persistent symptoms or difficulty performing everyday activities may require medical evaluation.
Consider consulting an orthopaedic surgeon if you experience:
1. Persistent Joint Pain
Pain that continues for several weeks or repeatedly returns may require an assessment to identify its underlying cause. It may become more noticeable during walking, standing, climbing stairs or other movements.
2. Stiffness and Restricted Movement
Difficulty bending the knee, rotating the hip, lifting the arm or straightening a joint can affect daily activities. Persistent stiffness may be associated with arthritis or other joint conditions.
3. Swelling Around the Joint
Repeated swelling may occur due to inflammation, injury or degenerative joint changes. Sudden swelling accompanied by severe pain, redness or fever requires prompt medical attention.
4. Difficulty Walking or Performing Daily Activities
Joint problems may make it difficult to walk for longer periods, get up from a chair, use stairs or perform routine tasks. An examination can help determine whether the limitation is related to joint damage or another condition.
5. Pain That Continues Despite Treatment
If medication, physiotherapy or other recommended treatments have not provided sufficient relief, the doctor may reassess the diagnosis and discuss further treatment options.
These symptoms do not automatically mean that joint replacement is required. A clinical evaluation is necessary to determine the appropriate course of care.
Conditions That May Require Joint Replacement Evaluation
Several conditions can cause damage to the joints. In selected cases, joint replacement may be considered when the damage is severe and affects mobility or daily function.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint condition in which the protective cartilage gradually wears down. It commonly affects the knees and hips and may cause pain, stiffness and reduced movement.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory condition that can affect the joint lining and gradually damage joint structures. Treatment depends on disease activity and the extent of joint involvement.
Advanced Hip Joint Damage
Certain degenerative conditions, previous injuries and other disorders can affect the hip joint. When the joint becomes severely damaged, hip replacement may be considered.
Joint Damage Following Injury
Some fractures and serious joint injuries can lead to long-term changes in joint structure. Depending on the damage, a patient may require reconstructive treatment or joint replacement.
Previous Joint Replacement Complications
In some patients, an existing artificial joint may develop problems such as loosening, wear, infection or instability. A specialist assessment helps determine whether further treatment or revision surgery is required.
What are the Different Types of Joint Replacement Procedures?
The choice of surgery depends on the joint involved, the location of the damage and the patient’s medical condition.
Total Knee Replacement
Total knee replacement involves replacing the damaged joint surfaces of the knee with artificial components. It may be considered in patients with advanced arthritis or extensive joint damage that causes persistent pain and functional difficulty.
Partial Knee Replacement
Partial knee replacement addresses the damaged compartment of the knee while preserving the unaffected portions of the joint. It is suitable only for selected patients whose joint damage and ligament condition meet the clinical requirements.
Total Hip Replacement
Total hip replacement involves replacing the damaged parts of the hip joint with artificial components. It may be recommended for certain patients with advanced arthritis, significant joint damage or other conditions affecting hip function.
Revision Joint Replacement
Revision surgery may be required when an existing knee or hip implant develops a problem. The procedure may involve replacing some or all of the existing components, depending on the reason for the revision and the condition of the surrounding bone and tissues.
Is Joint Replacement Always Necessary?
No. Joint replacement is not the first treatment for every person with joint pain. The decision depends on the underlying condition, the extent of damage and the response to other treatments.
Depending on the diagnosis, non-surgical treatment may include:
- Medicines prescribed for pain or inflammation
- Physiotherapy and muscle-strengthening exercises
- Activity modification
- Weight management where appropriate
- Walking aids or other supportive devices
- Selected injection-based treatments when clinically suitable
If these approaches do not provide adequate relief and joint damage significantly affects daily function, the doctor may discuss surgical options.
Patients should not delay an assessment when pain is persistent or mobility is declining. Early evaluation can help identify the condition and clarify the available treatment choices.
How is the Need for Joint Replacement Assessed?
Before recommending surgery, an orthopaedic surgeon evaluates the patient’s symptoms, physical condition and joint structure. This assessment helps determine whether the problem can be managed without surgery or whether joint replacement should be considered.
The evaluation may include:
Medical History
The doctor asks about the duration of pain, previous injuries, existing medical conditions, medicines and treatments already attempted.
Physical Examination
The affected joint is examined for movement, tenderness, swelling, stability and alignment. The doctor may also assess walking pattern and functional limitations.
Imaging Investigations
X-rays are commonly used to examine joint spaces, bone changes and alignment. Additional imaging may be recommended when further information is required.
General Health Assessment
If surgery is being considered, the patient’s overall health is reviewed. This may include blood tests, cardiac assessment and anaesthesia evaluation, depending on individual medical needs.
After reviewing the findings, the surgeon discusses the diagnosis and suitable treatment options with the patient.
What is Robotic-Assisted Joint Replacement Surgery?
Robotic-assisted joint replacement uses computer-based technology to support selected stages of surgical planning and execution. Depending on the system and the procedure, it may assist with assessing joint anatomy, planning bone preparation and guiding implant positioning.
The robotic system does not independently make medical decisions or replace the surgeon. The orthopaedic surgeon remains responsible for patient assessment, surgical planning and performing the operation.
Not every patient requires robotic assistance. Its suitability depends on the patient’s condition, the procedure being considered and the technology available.
What are the Possible Risks of Joint Replacement Surgery?
Joint replacement is a major surgical procedure and carries potential risks. Patients should discuss these with their surgeon before deciding on treatment.
Possible complications include:
- Infection around the surgical site or implant
- Blood clots
- Bleeding
- Persistent pain or swelling
- Joint stiffness or restricted movement
- Implant wear or loosening over time
- Nerve or blood vessel injury
- Complications related to anaesthesia
The likelihood of complications varies according to the patient’s health, the procedure and other clinical factors. Pre-operative assessment and appropriate post-operative care are important parts of surgical management.
Recovery and Rehabilitation After Joint Replacement
Recovery depends on the joint treated, the type of procedure, the patient’s health and progress during rehabilitation.
After surgery, the medical team monitors the patient’s condition and provides guidance on pain management, wound care and movement. Assisted mobilisation may begin when medically appropriate.
Rehabilitation generally involves:
- Gradual improvement in joint movement
- Exercises to strengthen surrounding muscles
- Walking or movement training
- Balance and functional exercises
- Instructions for managing daily activities
- Follow-up consultations to monitor progress
Some patients may require walking aids or assistance with daily activities during the initial recovery period. The duration of rehabilitation differs between individuals, so patients should follow the instructions given by their treating surgeon and physiotherapist.
What Factors Affect the Cost of Joint Replacement Surgery?
The cost of joint replacement varies according to the patient’s medical requirements and the procedure being performed. A treatment estimate may depend on:
- The joint requiring replacement.
- Whether total, partial or revision surgery is required.
- Implant type and materials.
- Conventional or technology-assisted surgical requirements.
- Hospitalisation and nursing services.
- Anaesthesia and diagnostic investigations.
- Medicines and surgical consumables.
- Physiotherapy and rehabilitation requirements.
Patients can request an itemised estimate to understand which services are included and whether additional expenses may arise during treatment.
About Dr. Bharath Loganathan – Orthopaedic Surgeon
Dr. Bharath Loganathan, also known as Dr. L. Bharath, is an orthopaedic surgeon based in Chennai with over 20 years of clinical experience. His clinical practice includes knee and hip replacement surgery, revision joint replacement procedures and the assessment of various orthopaedic conditions.
His academic qualifications include:
- MBBS from Stanley Medical College, Chennai
- MS in Orthopaedic Surgery from Grant Medical College and JJ Group of Hospitals, Mumbai
- MRCS from the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh
His additional training includes the Ranawat Adult Joint Reconstruction Fellowship and the Rothman Ranawat Travel Fellowship. He has also undertaken advanced training in hip and knee joint replacement.
His professional experience includes work at Shalby Hospitals, Ahmedabad, followed by a role as Senior Joint Replacement Surgeon at Dr. Soundarapandian Bone and Joint Hospital in Chennai.
His areas of clinical practice include:
- Total knee replacement
- Partial knee replacement
- Total hip replacement
- Revision knee replacement
- Revision hip replacement
- Arthroscopy procedures
- Orthopaedic trauma management
Treatment recommendations are based on individual clinical assessment, investigation findings and the patient’s overall health.
Joint Replacement Consultation Locations in Purasawalkam
Bharath Orthopaedics lists the following consultation locations in the Purasawalkam area:
Sri Singhvi Health Centre
TVH Lumbini Square, No. 127, Bricklin Road, Purasaiwalkam, Chennai – 600007.
Amrit Medical Centre
No. 73/28, Dr. Alagappa Road, Purasawalkam, Chennai – 600084.
For information about consultation availability, patients can contact the clinic at 044 4799 2728. Appointment timings should be confirmed before visiting.