Knee replacement is a surgical procedure in which the knee cap (if required) and the damaged parts of the joints are removed and replaced by a prosthesis.
Knee replacement surgery is also known as knee arthroplasty and is effective for severely damaged knee joints which can make the person unable to move and walk properly.
With growing age, it is common that bone density starts degrading, it loses strength and certain elements like calcium that make it stronger.
Knee joint replacement can be done due to many reasons and the most common is arthritis in old people. Other causes include:
Rheumatoid arthritis
Osteoarthritis
Osteonecrosis
Haemophilia
Gout and pseudogout
Unusual bone growth
Due to side effects of any previous injury.
Tear of any ligament.
Due to bone fractures in an earlier stage of life.
Sitting in a constrained area.
Sitting on knees for a prolonged period.
Knee injury.
Infections.
The orthopedic surgeon can do the following things before performing a hip replacement surgery:
Enquiring about the medical history of the patient.
Taking notes of the current medications.
Evaluating the knee movements and range of motion.
Ordering tests like blood tests, X-rays.
MRI is not required in most cases but in some cases, the doctor might ask to perform an MRI.
During the evaluation process, the patients can ask any queries related to medications, which medicines to terminate a week before surgery, getting clarity on the surgery process, etc.
During the procedure, the patient is given a general anesthetic, spinal block, or nerve block to numb the nerves around the knee joint and the lower body area.
The surgery takes about two hours to get completed.
The surgeon makes an incision in the front of the knee joint, extracts the knee cap, removes the dead and damaged tissues, makes artificial joint surfaces, and replaces it with the joint implant.
After the surgery, the patient might need a few hours to regain their senses.
The medical staff monitor blood pressure, blood sugar level, pulse, alertness, and pain.
The patient is advised to stay under the supervision of the hospital for a few days, many patients can go home on the day of surgery. The number of days spent can depend on one’s personal needs and conditions.
A physical therapist might show some knee exercises to the patient.
The patient is asked to move the knee and ankle area to allow blood to flow into the leg.
After a few hours or a day, the patient can be asked to move and try to walk if possible to prevent the risks of blood clots.
The patient should stop the intake of certain medications prescribed by the doctor.
Avoiding any dental treatments like teeth cleaning before the surgery.
Getting all the necessary documents and things that will be required at the hospital ready.
Getting proper rest and eating healthy.
The patient is most likely to get nervous about the surgery process, it is better to let the family members and close ones know how they are feeling.
If the patient is away from home, they should arrange for someone to help them with their aftercare.
Keeping the necessary items like a phone, water bottle, prescription, medicines, tissues, etc., on a bedside table or chair.
Using the support of someone to go to the washrooms.
Getting enough rest.
Wearing light, comfortable clothes.
The doctor can advise the patient to wear compression shoes to prevent swelling and pain.
If unable to get a proper sleeping position, the person can use pillows to support their back and legs.
While at rest, the patient should try moving the knee joint to the limited range the body allows. It will help to prevent the risks of blood clots.
Receiving physical therapy after a few weeks. (note: it should be done under the supervision of any professional) or the person can do the exercises shown to them by any physical therapist or you can also contact our team to get physiotherapy at the comfort of your home.
Installing handrails or safety bars in the washroom.
Getting a toilet seat riser if the patient has a low toilet.
Using handrails while climbing stairs.
Arranging a shower bench or stool.
Over-the-counter medicines like painkillers and muscle relaxants can be taken to avoid occasional pains. (note: it is advisable to contact a doctor before trying out the medications)
Avoiding smoking and consumption of alcohol can help in faster recovery.
Maintaining proper intake of the prescribed medicines. (note: it is advisable to contact a doctor before trying out the medications)
Eating healthy and nutritious. Drinking enough water.
When patients feel better and are confident about doing activities, they should start with easy and light tasks.
Medical knee caps or bands can be used for extra support. (note: one should get the band after consulting their doctors).
After a few weeks, the patient can do light joint exercises, go for light walks, etc.
Strenuous activities should be strictly avoided as they can increase the chances of infections.
Undergoing surgery is a significant take on mental health. So, patients who feel demotivated or depressed should share and let their close ones know. The family members should support them in the journey. Being patient and optimistic is the key.
If faced with any signs of infection or other unexpected occurring, the patient must immediately contact their doctor.
The period of recovery varies from person to person. It takes about six to twelve months to get completely healed.
After three to six weeks, most patients resume their daily activities, which include light tasks like walking, going out, etc.
If the patient feels confident in their muscular and joint strength, then they can start driving. (note: it is recommended to consult the doctor before starting)
Regular follow up with the doctor should be done properly and a clear idea about the medicines should be taken.
The patient must ensure that their knee joint is healing properly.
The doctor can test for any reactions and side effects due to the implant used.
A successful knee replacement surgery can last for 15 years and more.
Most patients heal well without facing any major complications. But if any signs of :
Infection
Blood clot
Excessive pain
Unexpected pressure at certain regions
Change in leg length
High fever and chills
Loosening and
If nerve damage is seen, then the patient should immediately consult their doctor or surgeon.
Resolve360 is a promising online platform where one can receive treatment at the comfort of their own home.
Sick patients don’t need to worry about traveling long distances to get diagnosed.
The patients can save time and utilize that time to take care of themselves.
Live sessions are conducted so that the patients can have a face to face interaction with their assigned doctors.
Building trust is really important. So, we always try our best to provide the maximum support to the patients to make them feel comfortable.
We always schedule the timings of the meetings based on the patient’s preference. Rescheduling can also be done if there are any problems.
When a patient comes to our doctor, it becomes the responsibility of our doctor to give them a healthy life.
We guarantee that the doctors will never leave their patients.
The patients can openly talk about their problems, and we assure them that the information will be between them and the doctors.
Our doctors plan every step necessary for their patients, from planning exercises to drafting their diet charts.
The doctors on the platform are highly reliable and are certified professionals with experience.
It is a platform that provides solutions to every problem, starting with home remedies to prescribed medications.
The patient’s trust is our confidence!
There is free access to knowledge and consultation. For further details, don’t forget to contact us! We will take extreme pride in serving you! Happy recovery!
Disclaimer: The above-mentioned remedies and medicines; are over the counter medicines and are effective in most cases. It is advisable to contact your doctor before taking any medications.
Dr. Ashish
If you have more questions.
Dr. Ashish
If you have more questions.
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We are your doctor’s first choice and trusted by 50,000+ patients.
We are your doctor’s first choice and trusted by 50,000+ patients.
We are your doctor’s first choice and trusted by 50,000+ patients.
We are your doctor’s first choice and trusted by 50,000+ patients.
