What is Total Knee Replacement?
Total knee replacement, also known as total knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure in which the damaged surfaces of the knee joint are removed and replaced with precision-engineered prosthetic components. These components replicate the natural movement of the knee, eliminating pain caused by bone-on-bone contact and restoring smooth, stable joint function.
The procedure is one of the most commonly performed and most successful orthopaedic operations globally, with consistently high rates of patient satisfaction and long-term implant survival.
When is Knee Replacement Surgery Recommended?
Conditions That May Require Knee Replacement
Knee replacement surgery is recommended when knee joint damage becomes severe enough to limit daily activities. Common conditions include:
- Osteoarthritis - the most frequent reason, caused by gradual wear and tear of cartilage
- Rheumatoid arthritis - an autoimmune condition causing chronic joint inflammation and damage
- Post traumatic arthritis - joint damage following a fracture or ligament injury
- Avascular necrosis - loss of blood supply causing bone tissue in the knee to collapse
Signs You May Need a Knee Replacement
- Persistent knee pain that limits walking, climbing stairs, or standing for extended periods
- Knee pain that continues even at rest or during sleep
- Stiffness and reduced range of motion making daily activities difficult
- Visible deformity or bowing of the knee
- No significant relief from medications, injections, or physiotherapy
Types of Knee Replacement Surgery
Total Knee Replacement (TKR)
The most commonly performed procedure, where all three compartments of the knee joint medial, lateral, and patellofemoral are resurfaced with prosthetic components. It is recommended when damage is widespread across the entire joint.
Partial Knee Replacement
Only the damaged compartment of the knee is replaced, preserving healthy bone and tissue in the remaining compartments. It results in a more natural knee feel and faster recovery for suitable patients.
Bilateral Knee Replacement
Both knees are replaced either simultaneously in one surgical session or in staged procedures depending on the patient’s overall health and the severity of disease in each knee.
Revision Knee Replacement
A repeat procedure performed when a previous knee replacement has worn out, loosened, or developed complications, requiring the removal and replacement of the existing implant.
How is Knee Replacement Surgery Performed?
Knee replacement is performed under spinal or general anaesthesia. The surgeon makes an incision over the knee and removes the damaged cartilage and bone from the surfaces of the femur, tibia, and patella. The prosthetic components are then precisely fitted and secured to the prepared bone surfaces. The joint is tested for stability and range of motion before the incision is closed.
With robotic assistance, each step is guided by pre planned 3D imaging, ensuring every component is placed with the highest degree of accuracy for that patient’s specific anatomy.
The procedure typically takes 1 to 2 hours. Most patients are encouraged to stand and take their first steps on the same day or the following morning. Hospital stay at Swasthyam Superspeciality Hospital, Nagpur is typically 2 to 3 days for patients undergoing the Subvastus technique.
What to Expect Before, During, and After Knee Replacement in Nagpur
Before Surgery
Our orthopaedic team conducts a thorough pre-operative assessment including X-rays, blood tests, ECG, and a review of current medications. Patients are counselled on the surgical approach, implant choice, and expected recovery timeline. Blood thinners and certain medications may be adjusted as directed.
During Surgery
You will be administered anaesthesia by our anaesthesiology team. The procedure is performed in a laminar airflow operation theatre under strict sterility protocols, with continuous monitoring of vital parameters throughout.
After Surgery
Physiotherapy begins within 24 hours of surgery. A structured rehabilitation plan is provided covering exercises, weight bearing guidance, wound care, and activity progression. Most patients resume independent daily activities within 2 to 3 weeks and return to full function within 6 to 8 weeks.
Benefits of Knee Replacement Surgery
Total knee replacement offers significant and lasting improvements for patients with severe knee joint disease:
- Long lasting relief from chronic knee pain that has not responded to other treatments
- Improved ability to walk, climb stairs, and perform daily activities independently
- Correction of knee deformity and restoration of proper leg alignment
- Significantly improved quality of life and sleep quality
- High implant survival rate with modern prosthetics lasting 15 to 20 years or more
- Psychological benefit of regaining mobility and independence
Risks of Knee Replacement Surgery
As with any major surgical procedure, knee replacement carries potential risks that are discussed in detail with every patient before surgery:
- Deep vein thrombosis (blood clots in the leg) managed with blood thinners and early mobilisation
- Infection at the surgical site, minimised through laminar airflow operation theatres and sterile protocols
- Implant loosening or wear over time, particularly with high impact activities
- Stiffness in the knee requiring structured physiotherapy
- Nerve or blood vessel injury in rare cases
- In a small number of patients, the level of pain relief or range of motion achieved may not meet expectations
Our orthopaedic team at Swasthyam Superspeciality Hospital, Nagpur discusses each patient’s individual risk profile thoroughly before recommending surgery, ensuring fully informed decision-making at every stage.
Why Choose Swasthyam Superspeciality Hospital for Knee Replacement?
Best Knee Replacement Hospital in Nagpur
Swasthyam Superspeciality Hospital is one of the most trusted knee replacement hospitals in Nagpur, combining advanced surgical technology, experienced orthopaedic specialists, and a patient first approach to deliver outcomes that restore mobility and improve quality of life.
Expert Orthopedic Doctor
Our orthopaedic surgeon is fellowship trained with hands on experience in over 450 independent surgeries, bringing specialist level expertise in total knee replacement surgery.
Comprehensive Care from Diagnosis to Recovery
Every knee replacement patient at Swasthyam receives a personalised care plan covering pre surgical assessment, surgery, pain management, physiotherapy, and structured follow up, ensuring complete support at every stage of the journey.
Shorter Hospital Stay and Faster Recovery
Our minimally invasive surgical approach and rapid recovery protocols allow most patients to begin walking within 24 hours of surgery and return home within 48 hours, significantly reducing overall recovery time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of knee replacement surgery in Nagpur?
Knee replacement surgery cost in Nagpur varies depending on the type of implant, surgical approach, and length of hospital stay. Contact our team at +91 8600888444 for a detailed cost estimate based on your specific condition.
Is knee replacement surgery safe?
Yes. Total knee replacement is one of the most commonly performed and well studied orthopaedic procedures with a strong safety record.
Which material is used for knee replacement implants?
Knee replacement implants are typically made of a combination of metal alloys such as cobalt chromium or titanium for the femoral and tibial components, and high grade medical polyethylene plastic for the bearing surface between them.
Will I need physiotherapy after knee replacement?
Yes. Physiotherapy is an important part of recovery. At Swasthyam, rehabilitation begins within 24 hours of surgery with a personalised program to restore strength, flexibility, and full range of motion.
How soon can I climb stairs after knee replacement?
Most patients are able to climb stairs with support within a few days of surgery. Independent stair climbing is typically achieved within 3 to 6 weeks depending on individual recovery progress.
How long does a knee replacement last?
Modern knee implants are designed to last 15 to 20 years or more with appropriate use and regular follow-up. Robotic assisted surgery further improves implant longevity by ensuring precise alignment and positioning.
What is the age limit for knee replacement surgery?
There is no fixed age limit. Knee replacement is recommended based on the severity of joint damage, level of pain, and impact on quality of life rather than age alone.
Can I walk after knee replacement surgery?
Yes. Most patients are encouraged to stand and take assisted steps on the day of or the day after surgery.
Is knee replacement surgery painful?
Modern pain management protocols ensure post operative discomfort is well controlled. Most patients report significantly less pain than expected, which reduces progressively over the first few days of recovery.
What is the recovery time after knee replacement surgery in Nagpur?
Most patients resume daily activities within 2 to 3 weeks. Full recovery including return to walking outdoors, climbing stairs, and light physical activity generally takes 6 to 8 weeks, with most patients returning to their normal lifestyle within 3 months.