Knee Replacement Surgery

Who Should Undergo Knee Replacement Surgery?

Patients can be considered for knee replacement surgery if they have:

• Severe knee pain that restricts activities like walking or climbing stairs.
• Chronic swelling and inflammation that does not respond to medication or rest.
• Knee deformity (e.g., bowing in or out of the knee).
• Failure of non-surgical options like injections or physical therapy.

Common underlying conditions include:

• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Post-traumatic arthritis
• Injury to the knee or fracture

Types of Knee Replacement Surgeries

Knee replacement surgery is of the following types:

• Total Knee Replacement (TKR) - Replaces both surfaces of the knee joint (femoral and tibial). It is the most common form.
• Partial Knee Replacement (PKR) - Replaces only the affected compartment of the knee, for patients with limited arthritis.
• Kneecap Replacement (Patellofemoral Arthroplasty) - Focusing on replacing the under-surface of the kneecap and the groove that it rests in.
• Complex or Revision Knee Replacement - Done when earlier knee surgeries have failed or in severe cases of bone loss or deformities.

Pre-Surgery Evaluation and Diagnostics

Before undergoing knee replacement, a detailed evaluation is performed to establish eligibility:

• Physical Examination
• Imaging Tests: X-rays, MRI, or CT scans
• Blood Tests
• Cardiac Evaluation (especially for older patients)
• Medical History Review to plan anesthesia and post-operative care

Prosthesis Selection and Surgical Planning

The type of prosthesis and surgical approach is tailored to the patient based on:

• Age and lifestyle
• Extent of knee damage
• Bone quality and alignment
• Presence of other medical conditions

Computer-assisted planning and 3D imaging enhance precision and outcomes.

Knee Replacement Surgery Procedure

• Anesthesia (Spinal or General)
• Incision and Joint Exposure
• Reshaping of Bone Ends
• Implant Fixation (Cemented or Cementless)
• Patella Adjustment (if required)
• Wound Closure and Dressing
• Post-operative Monitoring

The procedure takes approximately 1–2 hours.

Risks & Potential Complications of Knee Replacement Surgery

Generally safe, but some risks include:

• Infection
• Blood clots
• Loosening or wear of the implant
• Stiffness or decreased mobility of the knee
• Damage to nerves (rare)

Proper care and early follow-up can prevent most risks.

What to Expect After Knee Replacement Surgery?

• Hospital Stay: 2–3 days
• Pain Management: Medications and cold therapy
• Physiotherapy: Begins within 24–48 hours after surgery
• Walking Aid: Initially a walker, then a cane
• Follow-ups: Periodic check-ups with X-rays to track implant

Post-Surgery Recovery & Long-Term Care

Physiotherapy is crucial for 6–12 weeks to regain mobility and strength.

• Lifestyle Modifications: Avoid sports that are high-impact; use low-impact exercises such as walking and swimming.
• Diet & Weight Management: Prolongs the life of the implant.
• Implant Monitoring: Periodic checks every few years.

Knee Replacement Success Rate in India

India has a high success rate, on par with international standards:

• Success Rate: 95-98%
• Implant Longevity: 15 to 25 years, depending on lifestyle and implant type

Knee Replacement Surgery Cost in India

The knee replacement surgery cost in India varies depending on factors such as the hospital, surgeon's expertise, implant type, and the city. The cost also differs based on the type of surgery, whether it’s a total knee replacement, partial knee replacement, or revision surgery. India offers world-class facilities and highly skilled orthopedic surgeons, providing affordable treatment options compared to many other countries. The combination of advanced technology and competitive pricing makes India a leading choice for knee replacement surgeries.

The price depends on the hospital, surgeon's expertise, implant type, and city.

Why Choose India for Knee Replacement Surgery?

India has emerged as a destination for orthopedic procedures because of a variety of compelling factors:

• World-Class Surgeons: Orthopedic specialists in India are internationally trained and experienced.
• Affordable Costs: Treatment in India is 60-80% less expensive compared to Western nations.
• Advanced Hospitals: World-class infrastructure and equipment.
• Minimal Wait Time: Rapid scheduling of procedures.
• Medical Tourism Support: Round-trip travel and care support for overseas patients.

Required Documents for Patients Traveling to India for Knee Replacement Surgery

For international patients planning to undergo knee replacement surgery in India, certain documents are required to ensure a hassle-free medical trip. These include:

• Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least six months from the date of travel.
• Medical Visa (M Visa): Issued by the Indian Embassy/Consulate based on medical necessity.
• Invitation Letter from Indian Hospital: A confirmation from the hospital outlining the treatment plan and duration.
• Recent Medical Records: Including X-rays, MRIs, blood reports, and a doctor’s referral from the home country.
• Completed Visa Application Form: Along with passport-size photographs as per specifications.
• Proof of Financial Means: Such as recent bank statements or health insurance coverage.
• Medical Attendant Visa: Required for a companion or caretaker traveling with the patient.

It's recommended to consult the Indian consulate or your medical facilitator for updated guidelines and assistance with documentation.

Best Knee Replacement Surgeons in India

The best knee replacement surgeons in India are known for their expertise in advanced techniques like minimally invasive and robotic-assisted surgeries. These highly skilled professionals provide world-class care, ensuring precision, faster recovery, and superior outcomes. Their expertise attracts both domestic and international patients looking for affordable yet top-quality joint treatments. Below is a list of some of the top doctors in the field:

1. Dr. Hitesh Garg - Artemis Hospital, Gurgaon
2. Dr. Ashok Rajgopal – Medanta, Gurugram
3. Dr. Raju Vaishya – Indraprastha Apollo, New Delhi
4. Dr. Kaushal Malhan – Fortis Hospital, Mumbai
5. Dr. Harshavardhan Hegde – Fortis Escorts, New Delhi

Best Knee Replacement Hospitals in India

Some of the best knee replacement hospitals in India are renowned for their advanced surgical techniques and exceptional patient care. With state-of-the-art technology and expert orthopedic surgeons, these hospitals ensure high precision and faster recovery. Below is a list of leading hospitals recognized for their expertise in knee replacement surgeries.

1. Medanta – The Medicity, Gurgaon
2. Apollo Hospitals, Chennai & New Delhi
3. Manipal Hospitals, Bangalore
4. Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurgaon
5. Max Super Specialty Hospital, New Delhi

These hospitals are certified by JCI/NABH and provide quality care.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long is knee replacement surgery?

Usually 1–2 hours.

When can I walk after the surgery?

Most patients walk with support for 1–2 days.

How bad is the recovery?

Some discomfort, but well controlled with medicines and therapy.

Is knee replacement permanent?

The prosthesis can last 15–25 years, depending on care.

Can I go back to sports or travel?

Yes, low-impact sports are allowed once recovery is complete.