Arthroplasty or knee replacement surgery can be a treatment for severely affected or injured knee joints and is one of the most common bone surgeries. This surgery involves replacing the cartilage from your kneecap with a joint made of metals and high-quality plastics.
Knee replacement surgery has a good success rate, and people who choose to go through with this often experience pain relief. However, it is imperative to get it done after consultation with the best orthopedic doctor in Bangkok. An orthopedic doctor will consult with an orthopedic surgeon before advising knee replacement to any individual. This is done after the patient is through with common assessments such as X-rays and other procedures to determine the knee’s range of motion, stability, and strength.
There are several knee replacement prostheses and techniques. The best orthopedic doctor in Bangkok will advise you on the best one for you, depending upon your weight, age, level of activity, overall health, and other such factors.
Why is arthroplasty done?
The most common reason for arthroplasty is osteoarthritis. People with osteoarthritis experience difficulties in walking, sitting or standing up, climbing stairs, and any other activity that involves the movement of knee joints. Arthroplasty helps these individuals in relieving the pain and bring motion back into the knee.
What to expect while going for the surgery?
Before the procedure
It is imperative to understand that your life and movement will be affected for a few weeks after the surgery. So, you need to make proper arrangements for your care and other essential aspects before going in for surgery. It is also important to consult with the best orthopedic doctor in Bangkok to rule out any confusion and prepare for the surgery better.
The surgeon may also ask you for your anesthetic preference. In some cases you might be able to choose between general anesthesia and spinal anesthesia before the procedure. The patients are also prescribed antibiotics before the procedure to keep infection at bay.
During the procedure
The knee is in a bent position throughout the procedure as this exposes the entire surface and joints. The surgeon will first make an incision and cut the damaged parts of the joint. After cutting them off, they will prepare the joint surface for attachment. Once the joint surface is ready, they will attach the artificial joint and close the incision.
After the procedure
The patient remains under observation for a couple of hours in the recovery room and is then transferred to a hospital room where they are expected to stay for a few days. The pain is controlled via medications, and the doctors keep a check on the wound for possible infection. The patient is also asked to move their ankle and foot to increase the flow of blood in the leg muscle. This helps in keeping blood clots and swelling at bay. The doctors also prescribe blood thinners depending upon your health conditions.
Post the procedure; the patient is also asked to exercise regularly under the guidance of a physiotherapist. Other general instructions are provided by the surgeon based on your individual condition.
A knee replacement can last up to or more than 15 years if the individual keeps up with the required activity levels. It takes about three to four weeks to heal completely, and post that, your doctor will advise you to resume your daily activities. First, however, it is essential to consult with the best orthopedic doctor in Bangkok and check with them about your limitations when it comes to activities.