Are you willing to get the best total knee replacement in Chennai at Bharath Orthopaedics? Then, you should be aware of TKR. So, what is TKR? Total knee replacement surgery also known as total knee arthroplasty is a procedure that removes the damaged bone and replaces it with an artificial joint made of metal alloys and polymers.
If non-surgical knee treatments like medicines and walking support are no longer helpful, you should consider knee surgery which is safe. Getting a total knee replacement in Chennai at a reputed hospital helps in relieving pain besides correcting leg deformity.
You can also opt for joint replacement which is a protected and compelling methodology in orthopaedics to assuage torment, and right leg deformation, and help you continue typical exercises.
Knee Replacement Surgery
Knee replacements are also known as knee arthroplasty. They are surgeries that are usually performed when the person suffers from a particular medical condition called arthritis, or it can also be due to reasons like cartilage defects, ligament tear, and major fractures in the area that requires replacement.
The procedure of total knee replacement in Chennai is performed to improve the partial surfaces of the knee or fully remove the surfaces of the knee to reduce the pain, improve inability, and create durability for the knee in order to get proper movement and flexibility.
Advantages of Total Knee Replacement in Chennai
Total knee replacement in Chennai is a surgical procedure that is commonly performed to treat severe knee joint damage caused by conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or post-traumatic arthritis. It offers several advantages that include:
Pain Relief: One of the primary advantages of total knee replacement is the significant reduction in knee pain experienced by patients. Conditions such as arthritis can cause chronic pain and discomfort, limiting a person’s mobility and quality of life.
Improved Mobility and Function: Total knee replacement can restore lost mobility and function in individuals who have experienced severe joint damage. The prosthetic components used in TKR are designed to replicate the natural movement of the knee joint, allowing patients to engage in activities that were previously difficult or impossible due to pain and stiffness.
Enhanced Quality of Life: Chronic knee pain and limited mobility can have a significant impact on an individual’s overall quality of life. By relieving pain, improving mobility, and restoring function, total knee replacement surgery in Chennai can greatly enhance a patient’s quality of life.
Long-Term Durability: The prosthetic components used in total knee replacement surgery are designed to be durable and long-lasting. Modern advancements in implant technology, such as improved materials and designs, have significantly increased the lifespan of knee replacements.
Minimal Invasiveness: Minimally invasive techniques involve smaller incisions and less disruption to surrounding tissues, resulting in reduced post-operative pain, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery times.
Improved Surgical Techniques: Computer-assisted navigation and robotic surgery systems are being utilized to enhance the precision and accuracy of implant placement, leading to improved outcomes and patient satisfaction.
Rehabilitation and recovery: Physical therapy and exercises are tailored to each individual’s needs, and advancements in rehabilitation protocols have contributed to faster and more effective recovery. Rehabilitation helps patients regain independence and return to their normal activities sooner.
Improved Safety: Total knee replacement surgery has a high success rate and is considered a safe procedure when performed by experienced surgeons in appropriate candidates. The risk of complications, such as infection and blood clots, has been significantly reduced due to advancements in surgical techniques.
However, it is important to note that all surgical procedures of total knee replacement in Chennai carry some level of risk, and individual patient factors can influence the outcome.
Knee Pain Causes
- Osteoarthritis: This is a type of arthritis that is very common to millions of people all over the world. This happens due to the wear and tear of the protective cartilage.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: It weakens the immune system by causing joints and other body organs to swell. You can also experience pain around the joint areas.
- Post-Traumatic Arthritis: This happens after a knee injury and usually occurs after physical injury to the joint.
Why Would One Need Knee Surgery?
Osteoarthritis, the breakdown of joint cartilage and underlying bone is one of the major reasons for knee replacement surgery in Chennai. Age is a very common condition and it occurs when cartilage the protection or covering between the knee and the bone joints breaks down.
Other Reasons for Knee Replacement Surgery
There can be other reasons for the best total knee replacement in Chennai. This may include:
- Deformities: People with bent legs or “knock-knees” often undergo surgery to restore the position of the knee.
- Knee Injuries: When a bone is broken or if there is a tear in the ligament around the knee, resulting in arthritis causes great pain and gradually limits your movements.
When Total Knee Replacement is Recommended?
Total knee replacement is typically recommended when other treatments, such as medication, physical therapy, or lifestyle modifications, have failed to provide relief from knee pain or improve knee function.
Individuals with severe knee damage caused by injury or conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or post-traumatic arthritis are often considered for total knee replacement in Chennai.
Osteoarthritis is the most common cause of knee pain and disability in older adults, resulting from the wear and tear of the cartilage that cushions the bones in the knee joint. Rheumatoid arthritis which is a chronic inflammatory condition causes pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints, including the knee. Post-traumatic arthritis can develop after a serious knee injury, such as a fracture or ligament tear, and may cause chronic pain and instability.
Other factors that may contribute to the need for knee replacement surgery include knee deformities, such as bowed legs or knock knees, and limited knee mobility that makes it difficult to perform day-to-day activities.
Before considering total knee replacement in Chennai, doctors will typically recommend non-surgical treatments to alleviate pain and improve knee function. These treatments may include pain medications, physical therapy, weight management, and assistive devices. If these treatments become unsuccessful, surgery might be recommended.
Treatment For Knee Replacement
The treatment for knee replacement typically involves a surgical procedure in which the damaged or worn-out parts of the knee joint are replaced with artificial components made of metal and plastic. However, before surgery, non-surgical treatments may be used to alleviate pain and improve knee function.
Pain management is often an essential part of the treatment plan for knee replacement. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) – ibuprofen and naproxen reduce pain and inflammation. Acetaminophen may also be used for pain relief. In some cases, stronger pain medications like opioids may be prescribed, but these are typically used for short-term pain relief.
Physical therapy is another important aspect of treatment for knee replacement. A physical therapist can help patients strengthen the muscles around the knee joint, increase the range of motion, and improve overall mobility. Exercises may include stretching, range-of-motion exercises, and strength-training exercises using resistance bands or weights.
Weight management is also an essential aspect of the treatment plan for knee replacement. Maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce the stress on the knee joint and reduce the risk of complications after surgery. Losing weight through a combination of diet and exercise can help reduce knee pain and improve knee function.
Assistive devices may also be used to help relieve knee pain and improve knee function. These devices include braces, canes, crutches, and walkers. Assistive devices can help reduce pressure on the knee joint, provide support, and improve balance and stability.
If non-surgical treatments are unsuccessful in relieving knee pain and improving knee function, surgery may be recommended. Total knee replacement in Chennai is a common and effective surgical procedure for severe knee damage.
Following surgery, a rehabilitation program is usually recommended to help patients regain strength, mobility, and flexibility in the knee joint. The rehabilitation program may include exercises, assistive devices, and regular follow-up appointments with a healthcare provider.
Types of Knee Replacement Surgery
Knee Replacement surgeries are complicated procedures that have to be handled with an equal amount of care and precision.
- Total Knee Replacement.
- Partial Knee Replacement.
- Patellofemoral Replacement.
- Complex Knee Replacement.
- Cartilage Restoration.
Total Knee Replacement
Total knee replacement is the most common traditional method used by doctors to treat a damaged knee. In this, the knee surgeon usually replaces the surfaces of the thigh bone and shin bone that connect to the knee.
After the procedure of total knee replacement in Chennai, the knee functions like that of a normal knee and can be customized to fit the body type of every kind respectively. The surgeon performs these four-step techniques in this total knee replacement surgery in Chennai.
- Firstly, the bone and the cartilage are treated and removed.
- Secondly, the implants are fixed or fitted on the affected area or the bone is either attached.
- Thirdly, a plastic button is fixed below the kneecap.
- Finally, the surgeon inserts and fixes a plastic spacer between the knee and the femur (thigh bone) to accomplish smooth flexibility and functioning of the knee.
Finally, there should be a proper alignment, after which the bone must be carefully fitted for fair movement.
Partial Knee Replacement
Partial knee surgery is applicable and suitable for individuals who have strong knee ligaments to resist the surgery. Here only the infected and the last part is replaced by protecting most of the natural bone, ligaments, and tissues in place for bodily movements. At the same time, if only one side of your knee is affected due to arthritis, this surgery can be performed.
It can be done through a smaller slit that is required for performing the TKR. The surgeon removes the stiffness in joints called the arthritic and then replaces that area with either metal or plastic compared to that of the total knee replacement in Chennai.
Patellofemoral Replacement
This knee replacement surgery can be highly effective for people with chronic kneecap arthritis for replacing only the under-surface of the kneecap.
Complex Knee Replacement
This is required for patients with severe arthritis or is performed on patients who have done existing two or three surgeries.
Cartilage Restoration
Sometimes when the knee has a distinct injury in this area it can be replaced with a living cartilage graft or cells which grow into cartilage.
Possible Complications of Surgery
It’s important for patients to be aware of these complications and discuss them with their surgeon prior to the procedure. In this response, we will explore some possible complications of total knee replacement in Chennai.
Infection: One of the most common complications of any surgery is infection. Despite precautions taken in the operating room, bacteria can enter the surgical site and cause an infection. Symptoms include redness, pain, swelling, and fever. Prompt medical attention is necessary to treat the infection and prevent further complications.
Blood Clots: Surgery can increase the risk of developing blood clots in the veins of the legs, a condition known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). These clots are dangerous if they travel to the lungs, because they may cause a pulmonary embolism. To minimize this risk, surgeons may prescribe blood thinners and use compression devices on the legs during and after surgery.
Excessive Bleeding: During knee surgery, there is a risk of excessive bleeding. While surgeons take precautions to control bleeding, occasionally, excessive bleeding may require additional interventions such as blood transfusions or surgical re-exploration.
Nerve Damage: The knee is surrounded by a complex network of nerves, and there is a risk of nerve damage during surgery. Nerve damage can result in numbness, tingling, weakness, or even loss of sensation or motor function in the leg or foot. In some cases, nerve damage may be temporary, but it can also be permanent.
Stiffness and Limited Range of Motion: After knee surgery, some patients may experience stiffness and limited range of motion in the knee joint. This can be caused by scar tissue formation or inadequate rehabilitation. Physical therapy and exercises prescribed by the surgeon can help address this complication.
Instability or Dislocation: Knee surgery aims to stabilize the joint, but there is a small risk of instability or dislocation of the knee following the procedure. This can occur if the ligaments or other structures are not adequately repaired or reconstructed. Additional surgery may be required to correct this issue.
Allergic Reactions: Some patients may have allergic reactions to medications or materials used during knee surgery. It is important to inform the surgical team about any known allergies beforehand to minimize this risk.
Failure to Alleviate Pain: While knee surgery is often performed to alleviate pain and improve function, there is a possibility that the procedure may not achieve the desired outcome. This can occur due to various factors, including underlying conditions or complications during surgery.
Delayed Healing: In some cases, the bones may not heal properly following knee surgery, leading to delayed healing or nonunion. This may require additional treatments, such as bone grafting or revision surgery.
Psychological Effects: Knee surgery and the recovery process can be physically and emotionally challenging. Some patients may experience post-surgical depression, anxiety, or frustration due to limitations in mobility or changes in lifestyle. Support from healthcare professionals and loved ones can be crucial in managing these psychological effects.
It is essential for patients to communicate openly with their healthcare providers, follow post-operative instructions, and attend scheduled follow-up appointments to ensure the best possible recovery after total knee replacement in Chennai.
Knee Cartilage Transplant
Knee Cartilage Transplants are a method to replace damaged cartilage in the knee joint with healthy cartilage. This is considered to be one of the greatest knee pain therapy compared to that total knee replacement in Chennai.
These are typically conducted in areas where there is minimal damage, as the graft can be extracted from a small region within the same joint. They’re generally performed by means of a little camera called an arthroscope, which means that the incision is probably smaller, and recovery is faster and easier than with open surgery.
If the damaged region is too large to get an autograft, then you might need to undergo an allograft that requires open surgery. An allograft is the same as an autograft where it is removed from bone and cartilage. It is sterilized and analyzed for any potential disorder. An allograft enables your surgeon to accurately cut and set the cartilage on a damaged joint. This is also referred to as one of the best surgical procedures compared to total knee replacement in Chennai.
Step 1: Removal of Damaged Cartilage – Articular cartilage is a rubbery tissue that covers the ends of bones. Its smooth surface acts as a cushion between bones. In the first and foremost step, a knee cartilage transplant is performed to remove the defective cartilage.
Step 2: Procedure Performed – Cartilage may break down because of overuse or trauma and that causes swelling and pain problems with your joints. Your treatment for total knee replacement in Chennai will depend on the magnitude of the defect. This process is done on those that have a particular cartilage defect as a result of an injury. It isn’t achieved when cartilage reduction is significantly more extensive.
Step 3: Incisions – The surgical instruments will be used within these incisions after small incisions are made around the joint.
Step 4: Visualization – The scope is placed into the knee via a tube (cannula) and to the knee for extending the joint and increasing visualization. The picture will be sent to your video screen where the surgeon is able to see the joint.
Step 5: Repair – A plugin allograft tissue comprising cartilage and bone is formed to fit in the region that has been damaged. The damaged region which is ready is put into the site.
Step 6: End of Procedure – After the total knee replacement surgery in Chennai, the tissue is set up, the surgical tools are removed and the incisions are closed.
Is Total Knee Replacement for You?
The choice to have a total knee replacement in Chennai ought to be helpful for you, and your family. Your healthcare provider might allude you to an orthopaedic specialist for an exhaustive assessment to decide whether you could benefit from this medical procedure.
How Does Total Knee Replacement Surgery Work?
Total Knee Replacement or TKR is an operative procedure where the damaged knee is replaced using an artificial knee. During the surgery, the ends of the thigh bone are ejected and replaced with an artificial metal shell; the edge of the leg bone is replaced with a plastic piece over a man-made metal stem.
Depending on the damaged condition of the kneecap, the undersurface will also be resurfaced with a plastic kneecap. Many designs with different materials are used in replacements.
At Bharath Orthopaedics, you can get an affordable and best total knee replacement in Chennai, as the experts here use advanced implants to deliver the best clinical outcomes and increase the lifestyle of a patient.
Procedures Followed for Total Knee Treatment
Under the supervision of our senior knee specialist – Dr. Bharath, we at Bharath Orthopaedics provide standard knee treatments for treating patients without surgery using the following methods:
- Hyaluronic acid injections or knee shots.
- Platelet-rich plasma or PRP injections.
- Stem cell therapy.
Hyaluronic Acid or Knee Shots
Hyaluronic acid is like a substance that occurs in the joints, and it acts as a lubricant as well as a shock absorber, helping the joint to work properly. Hyaluronic acid injections are also known as HA or gel injections. They are used for treating knee pain in patients with osteoporosis treatment or for whom other treatments have been ineffective.
How Do Hyaluronic Acid Joint Injections Work?
For a healthy joint, a fluid named hyaluronan provides lubrication. But, if you are infected with osteoarthritis, there would be less supply of this fluid. Hyaluronic acid joint injections complement the joint’s hyaluronan with hyaluronic acid.
It is a basic procedure performed by the doctor by injecting hyaluronic acid directly in and around the joint area. The injections will depend on the specific type of usage of hyaluronan preparation. On the other hand, most people are injected for three to five weeks.
If the treatment is effective, you can experience good results within days. Sometimes, the relief often lasts for several months when your doctor may recommend repetitions. Knee shots are the popular treatment method when it comes to total knee replacement in Chennai.
Platelet Rich Plasma or PRP Injections
Plasma is a liquid part of the human blood mostly made of water and protein. It allows red and white blood cells along with the platelets to move through your bloodstream. Platelets make your blood clot as they play a major role in healing.
How do PRP Injections Work?
To collect plasma, the surgeon takes samples of blood from your body and to separate the platelet-rich plasma from the blood cutting-edge machines are used. Then the area of your body is treated with PRP injections.
The surgeon uses a needle to inject the plasma by making the area of your body numb. PRP injections are used to treat torn tendons, muscle injuries, joint replacement, tendinitis, and, arthritis.
Stem Cell Therapy
Stem cells are special cells that act as building blocks and have the potential to distinguish the types of cells within the human body. It is a strategy to repair degenerative cartilage than implantation with a key focus on the tissue for the functional replacement of cartilage and meniscus regeneration.
How does Stem Cell Therapy Work?
During this procedure of the best total knee replacement in Chennai, your physician will draw the blood through a peripheral vein. Then the physician will extract a sample of your bone marrow from the iliac crest to harvest stem cells.
The blood samples and bone marrow samples are used to prepare an injection of growth factors from the blood and stem cells are processed out of the bone marrow. This mixture is injected into the affected orthopaedic therapy targeted area to promote healing and recovery.
Read also: Tips for Knee Pain Relief.
Benefits of Total Knee Replacement
The benefits of total knee replacement surgery in Chennai include the following:
- Pain relief.
- Increased movements in the joints.
- Correction of deformity or straight knee.
- Strengthens the leg.
- Quality of life has improved.
- Ability to return to normal life.
FAQ
When do you require Total Knee Replacement?
Total Knee Replacement (TKR) is a surgical procedure in which the damaged or diseased knee joint is replaced with an artificial joint.
The most common reasons for TKR are:
1. Osteoarthritis: This is the most common reason for TKR. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that causes the cartilage in the knee joint to wear away, resulting in bone-on-bone friction, pain, and stiffness.
2. Rheumatoid Arthritis: This autoimmune disorder usually causes chronic inflammation of the joints. Over time, it can lead to damage in the cartilage and bone in the knee joint, necessitating TKR.
Is Total Knee Replacement a Major Surgery?
Yes, total knee replacement (TKR) is considered major surgery. It involves the replacement of the entire knee joint with an artificial joint made of metal, plastic, or ceramic components. The surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia and typically takes between 1-2 hours.
How painful is a Total Knee Replacement?
Total knee replacement (TKR) is a major surgery, and pain is to be expected during the recovery process. However, modern anesthesia techniques and pain management strategies have significantly improved, and most patients report less pain during recovery than in the past.
Immediately after the surgery, patients may experience some pain and discomfort. Pain can be managed with medications, including opioids, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and nerve blocks.
Conclusion
Overall, total knee replacement in Chennai has been found to be a highly effective treatment option for people with severe knee pain and disability. It can significantly improve quality of life and allow people to resume many of the activities they enjoyed before their knee problems. However, as with any surgery, there are risks involved, and it is important for patients to carefully consider their options and discuss the potential benefits and drawbacks with their healthcare provider.
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