What you need to know before Undergoing knee replacement surgery in Chennai

Knee replacement surgery, also known as knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure in which a damaged knee joint is replaced with an artificial joint

Knee replacement surgery has become common in Chennai as the city is emerging as a healthcare powerhouse with cutting-edge medical technologies. If you are someone who is going to undergo this surgery, knowing certain details will help you. Here is a comprehensive guide which will take you through all the important aspects of knee replacement surgery in Chennai. When you understand it, you can be fully prepared for it.

Understanding knee replacement surgery

Knee replacement surgery, also known as knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure in which a damaged knee joint is replaced with an artificial joint. The surgery is usually recommended for patients who are experiencing acute knee pain or limited mobility due to osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or knee injuries.

Why choose Chennai for knee replacement surgery?

Chennai is known for its hospitals and along with reputed surgeons and well-equipped hospitals,  the city is becoming a sought after destination for orthopedic procedures. The city has the following strengths in orthopedic surgeries.

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1. World-class medical facilities
2. Knee replacement specialists
3. Advanced surgical techniques
4. Economical cost of treatment
5. Excellent post-operative care

Factors to consider before surgery

Before you decide to go to Chennai for knee replacement surgery, here are some of the factors to consider:

1. Severity of your condition

Consult a knee replacement specialist to see whether the surgery is right for you. Find out if any non-surgical treatment can have a great effect on the milder ones.

2. Choosing the right hospital

Select a good hospital in Chennai that has expertise in orthopedic surgeries. Look for those that have the most advanced and newest orthopedic equipment and established records in their successful knee replacements.

3. Expertise of the surgeon

Find the best knee replacement surgeon who has vast experience in doing the surgery. Feel free to ask about the success rate and patient testimonials.

4. Type of knee replacement

You will have to consult your surgeon whether you require a total knee replacement or a partial knee replacement. The surgeon will diagnose and assess you condition depending on how bad the damage in your knee joint is.

5. Cost considerations

Although the knee replacement surgery cost in Chennai is relatively cheaper compared to most Western countries, it is still relevant to know what comprises the overall cost: from pre-operative tests and the surgery itself down to hospitalization and rehabilitation.

Preparation for knee replacement surgery in Chennai

After finalizing your decision to have the surgery, begin with these steps in your preparation:

1. Medical evaluation

Have a proper medical check to confirm that you are fit for surgery. It may include blood tests, X-rays, and other investigations.

2. Check on your medications

Write down the list of medications that you are currently taking and give it to your knee replacement specialist. There could be some medications that have to be modified or stopped before surgery.

3. Pre-operative physical preparation

You must undertake pre-operative exercises as directed by your surgeon for the strengthening of muscles and improving flexibility. This enables faster recovery after surgery.

4. Home preparation

Get your recovery living space ready by providing handrails, avoiding fall hazards, and preparing a recovery area you can comfortably rest in.

5. Arrange for support

You need to look for someone who will be able to stay with you during your stay in Chennai and who can help you for the first couple of weeks during the initial recovery period.

The knee replacement surgery process

Understanding what will happen during the surgery can help improve your comfort level. This section explains what you can expect:

1. Anesthesia: You will be provided with general anesthesia or spinal anesthesia.
2. Incision: The surgeon will carry out the incision over the knee to expose the joint.
3. Damaged surface removal: The damaged cartilage and bone surfaces are removed.
4. Placing the implant: Artificial joint components will be placed precisely and fixed.
5. Closure: The incision will be closed with stitches or staples.
6. The entire procedure may take 1-2 hours.

Post-surgery recovery and rehabilitation

Recovery is the most crucial time of knee replacement surgery in Chennai. Here is what you can expect:

1. Hospital stay: You may stay in the hospital from 3 to 5 days.
2. Pain management: Your knee replacement specialist prescribes pain medication to minimize discomfort after surgery.
3. Early mobilization: You will be encouraged to begin mobilizing your knee and walking as soon as possible with support.
4. Physiotherapy: You shall then regain strength and mobility through a structured rehabilitation program.
5. Follow-up appointments: Your surgeon will continue to monitor your progress through follow-up appointments.

Long-term outlook

The majority of patients in Chennai express that they felt improvements in pain and mobility post-knee replacement surgery. However, it is equally necessary to:

1. Keep following meticulous post-operative instructions given by your surgeon.
2. Attend all sessions of physical therapy and stick to home programs seriously.
3. Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on your new joint.
4. Avoid high-impact actions or heavy activities that may cause damage to the implant.

Possible risks and complications

Though generally a safe procedure, knee replacement surgery in Chennai is not free of risks. Like any other surgery it includes the following:

1. Infection
2. Blood clots
3. Loosening of the implants
4. Nerve and blood vessel injury
5. Pain or stiffness Persisting

Your knee replacement specialist will discuss these with you and take necessary steps to minimize such risks.

In Chennai, knee replacement surgery offers an excellent solution to those who are going through chronic pain in the knees and reduced mobility. The right hospital coupled with the right knee replacement specialist can improve the quality of life and independent living. With proper preparation and dedicated post-operative care, you can get the best possible outcome for your knee replacement surgery in Chennai.