Partial Knee Replacement Surgery - 5 Questions You Must Ask!

Lack of proper mobility due to stiffness and significant pain can be due to a number of bone and joint problems. Osteoarthritis, arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, as well as injuries, trauma, and inflammation of the knees,  are only some of the reasons why a patient may be experiencing joint pain. Apart from rest and medication, various surgical procedures may be considered as an option for, particularly severe cases. Partial knee replacement surgery is one such option. So, here are the five questions that you must ask an orthopaedic specialist about partial knee replacement surgery.

1. What is partial knee replacement surgery: This kind of surgery usually seeks only to replace the damaged part of the knee where the movements of the patient get restricted to a great degree. With the help of this surgery, the orthopaedic surgeon can replace the medial or inner part of the knee; or the lateral or outer part of the knee. When the surgeon conducts a surgery to replace the entire knee, this is called knee replacement.
2. How to prepare for the procedure: The doctor will advise you to stay away from any medication and dietary supplements that may hinder the work of the anesthesia that will be administered before the surgery. Before the surgery, the orthopaedic specialist will understand your medical history.
3. What is the procedure: The surgical procedure for partial knee replacement surgery usually involves keeping the knee in a bent position so that all the joint surfaces are well exposed. The surgeon will start by making an incision that is about six to ten inches in length, before removing the knee cap in order to remove the joint surfaces that have faced damage. Once this has been done, the surgeon will attach artificial joint pieces and close the knee. Then, the doctor will bend and rotate to test for balance and proper functioning of the knee. This procedure usually takes close to two hours.
4. How long does recovery take: The recovery process usually takes about three to four weeks following the surgery.
5. What to do after the surgery: Pain medication will help the patient in coping with the initial discomfort and after-effects of the surgery. Right after the surgery, the patient will be shown exercises before he or she is put onto a graduated walking program where walking indoors and then outdoors will be practiced. The patient will be required to take on physiotherapy for four to six months following this procedure so as to recover in a better manner and have a better functioning knee.

Get a complete check-up done in case you are facing persistent knee problems. In case you have a concern or query you can always consult Orthopedic Doctor in Delhi & get answers to your questions!