Fears and facts about Knee Replacement Surgery

Knee replacement surgery, also known as knee arthroplasty, is a common procedure to treat severe knee pain and disability caused by arthritis, injury, or other conditions. While knee replacement surgery can be highly effective in improving mobility and reducing pain, it is also a major surgery that comes with risks and fears. In this article, we will discuss some of the most common fears and facts about knee replacement surgery and what you need to know if you are considering this procedure.

Fear: Knee replacement surgery is extremely painful.

Fact: While knee replacement surgery can be painful, it is typically well-controlled with medication and other pain management techniques. Patients are administered a combination of opioids, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and nerve blocks to manage pain after surgery. In addition, physical therapy and exercise can help to reduce pain and improve mobility in the weeks and months following surgery.

Fear: Knee replacement surgery is risky and can lead to complications.

Fact: Like any surgery, knee replacement surgery does come with risks and potential complications. However, serious complications are rare, and most patients have a successful outcome. Some of the complications include infection, blood clots, and nerve damage. However, these risks can be minimized by selecting a qualified surgeon and following pre-and post-operative instructions.

Fear: Knee replacement surgery is too expensive and I cannot afford it.

Fact: While knee replacement surgery can be costly, there are options available to help manage the total knee replacement cost. Many insurance plans cover knee replacement surgery, and some hospitals and surgery centers offer financial assistance programs for patients who do not have insurance or who cannot afford their out-of-pocket costs.

Fear: Knee replacement surgery is only for older people.

Fact: While knee replacement surgery is more common in older adults, it can be performed on patients of any age who are experiencing severe knee pain and disability. Some younger patients may be good candidates for knee replacement surgery if other treatments, such as physical therapy or medication, have not been effective in reducing pain and improving mobility.

Fear: Knee replacement surgery will require a long hospital stay and recovery time.

Fact: While knee replacement surgery typically requires a hospital stay of several days, patients can often begin rehabilitation and physical therapy within a few hours of surgery. In addition, many patients can return home within a week or two after surgery and continue their recovery with the help of outpatient physical therapy and exercise. While recovery time can vary depending on the individual and the extent of the surgery, most patients can resume normal activities within a few months.

Fear: Knee replacement surgery will not be effective and I will still have pain.

Fact: While knee replacement surgery is not a guarantee of pain relief, most patients experience significant improvement in pain and mobility after surgery. However, it is important to have realistic expectations and to understand that the surgery may not eliminate all pain or restore the full range of motion. In addition, physical therapy and exercise are important parts of the recovery process and can help to maximize the benefits of surgery.

Knee replacement surgery can be an effective treatment option for patients with severe knee pain and disability. Also, the total knee replacement cost in India is way less as compared to the west. There are risks and fears associated with any surgery, but the benefits of knee replacement surgery can be significant in terms of pain relief and improved mobility. If you are considering knee replacement surgery, it is important to discuss the procedure with a qualified surgeon and to carefully weigh the risks and benefits.

A few additional things to keep in mind if you are considering knee replacement surgery:

Preparation is key: Before the surgery, it is important to follow your surgeon’s instructions and prepare for the procedure. It may include quitting smoking, losing weight, and increasing your physical activity.

Rehabilitation is crucial: Physical therapy and exercise are an important part of the recovery process after knee replacement surgery. It is important to work closely with your physical therapist to ensure that you are doing the right exercises and progressing at a safe and appropriate pace.

Long-term follow-up is necessary: While many patients experience significant improvement in pain and mobility after knee replacement surgery, it is important to continue to follow up with your surgeon and healthcare team in the months and years following surgery. This may include regular check-ups, imaging studies, and follow-up physical therapy.

Lifestyle changes may be necessary: To maximize the benefits of knee replacement surgery and reduce the risk of future knee problems, it may be necessary to make lifestyle changes such as losing weight, quitting smoking, and increasing physical activity. These changes can help to reduce the stress on your knees and improve your overall health and well-being.

Be patient: Recovery from knee replacement surgery can take time, and it is important to be patient and follow your healthcare team’s instructions. While you may experience some discomfort and frustration during the recovery process, remember that the benefits of surgery can be significant and long-lasting.

Read More Health Blogs: 

Understanding Lung Cancer: Can it be misdiagnosed, or should it be diagnosed?