Knee Replacement Surgery: Procedure, Recovery and Cost

Knee pain that limits walking, stairs and sleep is hard to live with. Knee replacement is a big step, so it helps to know when it is considered, how it works and what recovery asks of you.

When is knee replacement considered?

Usually for advanced arthritis, most often osteoarthritis, where the cartilage has worn away and bone rubs on bone. It may be discussed if:

• Pain wakes you at night or limits how far you can walk

• Stairs, or getting up from a chair, have become difficult

• The knee is stiff, swollen or has started to bend inward or outward

• Medicines, physiotherapy, weight loss, a walking aid or injections haven't helped enough

Surgery is not the first step. Doctors normally try other options first, and asking for a second opinion is perfectly reasonable.

Getting ready

• Expect an X-ray, sometimes an MRI, and blood tests.

• A fitness check covers your heart, blood pressure and diabetes. Change or stop medicines only as your doctor tells you.

• Prepare your home: no loose rugs, a chair with arm rests and a raised toilet seat if needed.

• Start strengthening exercises before surgery if your doctor or physiotherapist advises it.

What happens during surgery

You'll have spinal or general anaesthesia. The surgeon removes the worn surfaces of the thigh bone and shin bone, and sometimes the back of the kneecap, then fits metal and plastic implants. The operation usually takes 1 to 2 hours.

A total knee replacement covers the whole joint surface. A partial one is used when only one side of the knee is damaged. Some people have both knees done in one go, which suits some patients and not others. Your surgeon will advise.

Hospital stay and recovery

Most people stay 2 to 4 days. You'll usually stand and walk with a walker on day 1 or 2, and physiotherapy starts early. You may also be given a blood thinner to lower the risk of clots.

• Weeks 1 to 2: a walker, swelling and pain controlled with medicines, and daily exercises.

• Weeks 2 to 6: you may move to a stick. Many people drive again after about 4 to 6 weeks and return to desk work around the same time.

• About 3 months: most daily activities feel easier.

• 6 months to a year: swelling settles and strength keeps improving.

The exercises are the biggest part of recovery. A stiff knee is more likely if they are skipped.

Get help now: Go to the emergency room now if you have chest pain, breathlessness, or pain and swelling in one calf, which can be signs of a blood clot. Fever with a red, hot or leaking wound also needs urgent attention.

Risks

Knee replacement is a common operation, but it carries risks: infection, blood clots, stiffness, ongoing pain, implant loosening or wear over the years and, rarely, injury to a nerve or blood vessel. Your surgeon will go through these with you before you consent.

How long does a new knee last?

Modern implants often last 15 to 20 years or longer, depending on your weight, activity and the implant used. Results differ from person to person. Many people have less pain and move more easily, but a new knee doesn't feel exactly like the old one, and high-impact activities such as running or jumping are usually discouraged.

What affects the cost

The price depends on the type and material of the implant, whether one or both knees are done, total or partial replacement, the surgeon and team, the hospital and room category, the length of stay, tests and physiotherapy, and any complications. Many insurance policies cover knee replacement after a waiting period, so check room-rent limits and pre-authorisation rules.

Ask for a written estimate that names the implant, the number of hospital days, and whether physiotherapy and follow-up visits are included. At Axten, the price is shared in writing after your consultation, before you decide.

Questions to ask your surgeon

• Do I need surgery now, or can other treatment help first?

• Total or partial, and one knee or both?

• Which implant do you recommend, and why?

• How many days will I stay, and what does the estimate include?

• When can I drive, climb stairs and return to work?

• What are the risks in my case?

Common questions

Is knee replacement painful? You'll be under anaesthesia during surgery. Pain afterwards is expected and is managed with medicines, and it eases over the following weeks.

Will I be able to climb stairs? Most people can, within weeks to months, as strength returns. Your physiotherapist will guide you.

When can I drive? Often after about 4 to 6 weeks, once you can brake safely and are off strong pain medicines. Check with your surgeon.

Have questions or want to see a specialist? For appointment and queries, call 8156929292. AXTEN HOSPITALS - HONEST SURGERY, HONEST CARE.