Healthy knees are important for an active lifestyle. However, sometimes due to some injury or arthritis (generally osteoarthritis) the knees may get damaged, resulting in pain and inflammation. With time, the pain may increase and this condition may hinder the daily activities. If other options, such as medicines and walking support do not provide relief from the pain, the doctor may recommend the total or partial Knee replacement surgery depending on the condition of the patient. Based on the recommendation by the doctor, one may book surgery packages online also, by comparing various options. Many reputed hospitals offer such facilities online.

The surgery works as a great knee pain treatment option, as it provides dramatic relief from pain in majority of the cases. Also known as total knee arthroplasty, it is an extremely effective and safe surgical procedure. Before the surgery, the doctor may ask the patient about any previous medical history or complications. It is recommended to notify any sensitivity or allergy towards any medicine to the doctor. The procedure involves repairing the knee bone by covering the thighbone and encasing the shinbone with metal covering and plastic, respectively. Various medical instruments are used to monitor the patient during the surgery. The surgeon removes the worn out bone and replaces it with prosthesis. In some cases for the better functioning and reducing the pain, the doctor may replace the under surface of the kneecap with a plastic surface. The doctor may also remove cartilage and bone for the smooth functioning of the knee joint. The surgeon stitches and closes the incision after the procedure is completed and a drain may be placed to remove fluid from the incision site.

After the Knee replacement surgery, the patient will be kept in the recovery room until the blood pressure, pulse, breathing and the overall condition is stabilised. The patient is then shifted to the ward. The doctor may keep the patient under observation for a few days in the hospital. The patient may be given various pain killer medicines to ease the pain from the surgery. The doctor will start with weight bearing therapy immediately after the surgery. Physiotherapy sessions and occupational therapy may also be started. The patient may be able to walk and stand with support before leaving the hospital. Some patients may require medical assistance at home for a few days. The patient may be suggested some exercises by the physiotherapist to regain good range of motions and muscle strength. The doctor may restrict few activities for some time. Rehabilitation may require almost eight weeks time and for the patient may move around without support and perform day today activities. However, the doctor may warn the patient against undergoing any strenuous activity.

Total Knee replacement surgery is a very safe surgical procedure and patients rarely face severe complications. Just like any other surgical procedure, this procedure may sometimes result in some complications. Following are some of the complications that may arise:

• Bleeding at the site of surgery
• Infection
• Blood clots in the legs or lungs
• Problems with implants
• Persistent pain
• Damaged blood vessels

Though the total knee replacement surgical procedure is extremely safe, it is suggested to get in touch with the doctor to discuss in detail about the surgical procedure and various complications associated with it.