Travel to India and Unravel the Medical Wonders Here! You will be amazed to know the Knee replacement cost in India, as it is much less as compared to other developed countries.

Knee Replacement: Restoring Mobility and Easing Pain

Why Is Knee Replacement Done?

What Are the Risks Associated with Knee Replacement?

How to Prepare for Knee Replacement?

What to Expect Before Knee Replacement?

What to Expect During Knee Replacement?

What to Expect After Knee Replacement?

Knee Replacement Cost in India as Compared to Other Developed Nations

Knee Replacement: Restoring Mobility and Easing Pain

Knee replacement is a surgical procedure that involves replacing a damaged or worn-out knee joint with an artificial joint made of metal and plastic components. This procedure is commonly performed to relieve pain and improve mobility in individuals who have severe knee arthritis or other knee conditions that have not responded to non-surgical treatments. 

Why Is Knee Replacement Done?

Knee replacement is recommended when conservative treatments, such as medications, physical therapy, and assistive devices, fail to provide relief from knee pain and stiffness. The procedure is typically performed for the following reasons:

• Osteoarthritis: The most common reason for knee replacement is osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of cartilage in the knee joint. This leads to pain, swelling, and restricted movement.
• Rheumatoid arthritis: This chronic autoimmune disease causes inflammation and destruction of the joint lining, leading to pain, deformity, and loss of function in the knee joint.
• Post-traumatic arthritis: Severe knee injuries, such as fractures or ligament tears, can accelerate the development of arthritis in the affected joint, necessitating knee replacement.
• Other conditions: Knee replacement may also be recommended for individuals with avascular necrosis, knee deformities, or tumours affecting the knee joint.

What Are the Risks Associated with Knee Replacement?

While knee replacement is generally a safe procedure, like any surgery, it carries some risks. These risks may include:

• Infection: There is a risk of developing an infection in the surgical wound or around the artificial joint. Antibiotics and strict adherence to sterile surgical techniques help reduce this risk.
• Blood clots: Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism are potential complications after knee replacement. Blood-thinning medications and mobilization after surgery are employed to minimize this risk.
• Implant problems: Components of the artificial knee joint can wear out or become loose over time, leading to pain and reduced function. Revision surgery may be required to address these issues.
• Nerve or blood vessel damage: Although rare, there is a small risk of damage to nearby nerves or blood vessels during the surgery.

How to Prepare for Knee Replacement?

To prepare for knee replacement surgery, you can take the following steps:

• Medical evaluation: Your orthopaedic surgeon will conduct a thorough evaluation of your knee, medical history, and overall health to ensure you are a suitable candidate for the procedure.
• Pre-surgical education: Attend educational sessions or speak with the surgeon(s) to understand the surgical process, rehabilitation expectations, and any necessary lifestyle modifications.
• Lifestyle adjustments: Prior to surgery, it may be advisable to make certain lifestyle changes, such as losing weight, quitting smoking, and increasing physical activity, to optimize your overall health and facilitate recovery.
• Medications: Inform your surgeon about any medications you are taking, as some may need to be adjusted or discontinued before the surgery.

What to Expect Before Knee Replacement?

Before the surgery, you may undergo the following:

• Pre-operative tests: These may include blood tests, X-rays, and electrocardiograms (ECGs) to assess your overall health and identify any pre-existing conditions that may require special attention during the surgery.
• Anaesthesia consultation: You will meet with an anaesthesiologist to discuss the type of anaesthesia best suited for you, such as general anaesthesia or regional anaesthesia (spinal or epidural).
• Pre-surgical preparations: You will be given specific instructions regarding fasting, medication usage, and any necessary skin preparations. 
• Pre-operative assessments: You may undergo additional assessments, such as a physical examination, blood tests, and imaging studies, to reconfirm the need for surgery and evaluate your overall health status.
• Joint measurements and implant selection: Your surgeon will take detailed measurements of your knee joint to determine the appropriate size and type of artificial joint that will be used during the procedure.
• Preparing your home: Make necessary arrangements at home to ensure a comfortable and safe recovery. This may include installing grab bars, arranging a comfortable sleeping area on the ground floor, and removing tripping hazards.

What to Expect During Knee Replacement?

During the knee replacement procedure, you can expect the following:

• Anaesthesia: You will receive anaesthesia to ensure you are comfortable and pain-free during the surgery. This may involve general anaesthesia, which puts you to sleep, or regional anaesthesia, which numbs the lower part of your body while you remain awake.
• Incision and joint preparation: Your surgeon will make an incision over your knee and carefully remove the damaged bone and cartilage. The ends of the femur (thigh bone) and tibia (shin bone) will be shaped to accommodate the artificial joint.
• Implant placement: The artificial joint, consisting of metal and plastic components, will be securely implanted into your knee joint. The components may be cemented or press-fit into place, depending on the type of implant used.
• Wound closure: After the artificial joint is in place, your surgeon will close the incision using stitches or staples. Sterile dressing would be applied for protecting the wound.

What to Expect After Knee Replacement?

After your knee replacement surgery, you can expect the following:

• Hospital stay: You will typically stay in the hospital for a few days, during which time your pain will be managed with medication. You may receive physical therapy to start regaining mobility and strength in your knee.
• Rehabilitation: Once discharged, you will continue your recovery and rehabilitation at home or in a rehabilitation facility. This will involve regular physical therapy sessions to improve knee function, range of motion, and strength.
• Pain management: You will be prescribed pain medications to manage any discomfort during the initial weeks of recovery. As you progress, the need for pain medication will gradually decrease.
• Follow-up appointments: You will have follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your progress, remove stitches or staples, and make any necessary adjustments to your rehabilitation plan.

Knee Replacement Cost in India as Compared to Other Developed Nations

Knee replacement cost in India is generally more affordable compared to many developed nations. The exact cost can vary based on factors such as the type of implant used, the hospital chosen, the surgeon’s fees, and any additional medical services required. As a rough estimate, the cost of knee replacement surgery in India can range from 1.8 lakhs to 2 lakhs depending on the aforementioned factors. In contrast, the cost in developed nations like the United States, Canada, or European countries is much higher. It is important to note that these figures are approximate and can vary significantly. It is advisable to consult with the healthcare providers at Health Trawell and obtain detailed cost estimates for your specific case. Additionally, keep in mind that cost should not be the sole factor when considering knee replacement, as the quality of care, expertise of the medical team, and overall outcomes are equally important considerations – and you get it all in India with Health Trawell by your side for all the assistance!