Knee replacement surgery, or knee arthroplasty, is a well-established procedure designed to relieve severe knee pain and restore function in damaged joints. For many patients, the most common questions revolve around the length of the procedure and the time it takes to return to normal life.
The Procedure Duration
On average, the surgical procedure for a total knee replacement typically takes between **1 to 2 hours**. However, the total time you spend in the operating area will be longer due to anesthesia preparation and post-surgical monitoring in the recovery room.
What Happens During Surgery?
- Anesthesia: You will receive either general anesthesia or a spinal block to ensure you feel no pain.
- Incision: The surgeon makes an incision over the knee to access the damaged joint.
- Resurfacing: The damaged bone and cartilage are removed from the surface of the thigh bone (femur) and shin bone (tibia).
- Implant Placement: Specialized metal components are attached to the bone surfaces to create new joint surfaces.
- Knee Cap (Patella) Adjustment: If necessary, the underside of the knee cap is also resurfaced.
- Spacer Insertion: A high-grade plastic spacer is inserted between the metal components to ensure a smooth gliding surface.
Recovery Timeline: What to Expect
- Days 1-3: Hospital stay. You will begin walking with assistance within 24 hours of surgery.
- Weeks 1-3: Home recovery with physical therapy. Focus is on pain management and improving range of motion.
- Weeks 4-6: Most patients can walk without a walker or cane and resume light daily activities.
- Months 3-6: Significant improvement in strength and flexibility. Most normal activities can be resumed.
- 1 Year: Full recovery. The knee reaches its maximum strength and functionality.
Factors That Affect Recovery
Your recovery speed depends on several factors, including your overall health, activity level before surgery, and your commitment to physical therapy. Following your surgeon's post-operative instructions is the most critical part of achieving a successful outcome.
Knee Surgery at Sankalp Hospital
Our orthopedic department, led by Dr. Tanay Goyal, uses established surgical techniques and structured pain management protocols, with the aim of a safe recovery and return to daily activity. Individual outcomes vary.
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