Overview:
Total Knee Replacement (TKR) is a surgical procedure where the damaged or worn-out parts of the knee joint are replaced with artificial components (prostheses). It is typically performed to relieve pain and improve function in patients suffering from advanced arthritis, osteoarthritis, or knee joint degeneration. The surgery involves removing the damaged surfaces of the femur, tibia, and sometimes the patella, and replacing them with metal, plastic, or ceramic prostheses.

Causes:
The most common cause of knee joint damage leading to TKR is osteoarthritis, which involves the breakdown of cartilage in the knee. Other conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, post-traumatic arthritis, or knee injuries can also result in joint deterioration and pain, requiring knee replacement surgery. Age, obesity, genetics, and previous knee injuries are factors that increase the likelihood of requiring a TKR.

Symptoms:
Symptoms indicating the need for Total Knee Replacement include chronic knee pain that does not improve with conservative treatments such as medications, physical therapy, or injections, limited range of motion, swelling, and knee instability. Patients may also experience difficulty walking, climbing stairs, or performing daily activities due to pain and stiffness.

Treatment:
Total Knee Replacement surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia, with the procedure lasting 1 to 2 hours. The damaged parts of the knee joint are removed and replaced with prosthetic components designed to mimic the function of a healthy knee. The surgery can be performed using traditional open techniques or minimally invasive methods, depending on the patient’s condition. Postoperative care includes pain management, physical therapy, and gradual weight-bearing exercises to regain knee function.

Precautions:
Patients considering TKR should consult with an orthopedic surgeon to assess their overall health, medical history, and suitability for surgery. Preoperative preparations may include blood tests, imaging studies, and assessment of any existing medical conditions. Post-surgery, patients must follow the rehabilitation plan, including exercises to strengthen the knee, avoid high-impact activities, and maintain a healthy weight to prolong the lifespan of the artificial knee joint.

Prevention:
While some factors contributing to knee damage are unavoidable, maintaining a healthy weight, regular physical activity, and avoiding repetitive knee stress can help reduce the risk of developing conditions that require knee replacement. Additionally, using proper footwear, avoiding knee injuries, and seeking early treatment for knee pain can help prevent joint damage and delay the need for surgery.

For expert Total Knee Replacement care, visit the KDM Hospital in Lucknow. The hospital offers advanced diagnostic services, state-of-the-art surgical procedures, and post-operative rehabilitation for knee replacement patients. It also provides 24/7 doctor availability, ambulance services, Ayushman card acceptance, and budget-friendly options to ensure high-quality care.