Knee replacement surgery is a highly successful surgery. In our institute this surgery is done regularly and with protocol. Published reports suggest that there is 15 year survival of knee in 90-95% of the patients who undergo knee replacement. There are multiple reports published worldwide and from multiple centers.
This is a base less myth. In fact we encourage early mobilization of patients out of bed and make them stand within 24 hours. Early mobilization is not only essential for quick recovery but is an effective prophylaxis against DVT. By the time we discharge our patients they are able to get out of bed for all essential works. Patients have good recovery in 6-8 weeks.
We wish that all our patients are not obese. This helps in fast recovery but weight is not a contra indication for surgery. With regular exercise and diet program you can reduce your body weight.
Now with more and more centers doing this surgery, the packages for the surgery have come down and they are really cost effective. Considering the number of active years this surgery adds to your life we feel that it is worth.
Age is not a contra indication for the surgery in fact most of our patients are old. It is the symptoms which are important. Surgery can be done at any age if you have zeal to lead a quality life. If the patient is medically fit than they can undergo surgery at the age of 80+ also.
Anything which we use undergoes wear and tear, this is rule of nature and artificial joint are not an exception. With the quality implants available now you can get a long implant survival and even if it wears revision Knee surgery can be done.
This is a wrong thinking. In knee replacement only the worn out minimal bone is resected and artificial joint is fixed with cement. You have your own original soft tissues, ligaments and tendons. It is just like retreading of tyre where a coating of new rubber is applied over worn out tyre; similarly a metal implant is applied over the damaged bone.
Knee replacement surgery is done regularly in more than 50 cities of India. The implant and instrumentation used are standard throughout the world. This procedure can be safely done locally in regular centers that follow the protocol. Follow up is easy if the surgical center is not too far.
Diabetes is not a contraindication for Knee replacement. The only prerequisite is that blood sugar should be very well controlled before surgery. If the surgery is done in Modular Operation theatres with all modern amenities, the risk of Infection is very low and recovery is good. In fact once patient is able to walk after surgery their blood sugar is better controlled.
This is a surgery to improve the quality of life. You have the option of not undergoing surgery and walk with stick. But then you have to live this pain and your mobility will further decrease with time. It’s not a good idea to delay the surgery until you become bed ridden.