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Knee Replacement Surgery in Nepal
Knee replacement surgery is a highly effective procedure for patients with advanced knee arthritis, deformity, or chronic knee pain that has not responded to conservative treatments. Dr. Kshiteez Puri provides comprehensive knee replacement services including total knee replacement (TKR) and partial knee replacement.
Knee replacement surgery, also known as knee arthroplasty, is one of the most successful orthopedic procedures performed today. It involves replacing damaged articular surfaces of the knee joint with prosthetic components to relieve pain, restore function, and improve quality of life.
In Nepal, knee replacement has become increasingly accessible with excellent outcomes. Dr. Kshiteez Puri performs knee replacement surgery with careful patient selection, meticulous surgical technique, and comprehensive rehabilitation planning.
The decision to proceed with knee replacement is made collaboratively after a thorough evaluation of your symptoms, physical examination findings, imaging studies, and a discussion of your goals and expectations.
What Is Knee Replacement Surgery?
Knee replacement surgery involves removing damaged cartilage and bone from the knee joint and replacing them with artificial components made of metal alloys, high-grade plastics, and ceramic materials. These prosthetic components recreate the smooth gliding surface of a healthy knee joint.
The procedure can be performed as a total knee replacement (replacing all three compartments of the knee) or a partial knee replacement (replacing only the damaged compartment). The choice depends on the extent and location of arthritis.
Modern knee replacement techniques emphasize soft tissue balance, proper alignment, and restoration of normal knee kinematics. Patient-specific instrumentation and computer-assisted navigation may be used to enhance precision.
Who Needs Knee Replacement?
Knee replacement is typically recommended for patients with advanced arthritis who have not achieved adequate relief from conservative treatments such as medications, physical therapy, injections, and activity modification.
Common indications include severe osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, post-traumatic arthritis, avascular necrosis, and knee deformities that significantly impair daily activities like walking, climbing stairs, and getting in and out of chairs.
Ideal candidates have realistic expectations, are motivated to participate in rehabilitation, and have medical conditions optimized for surgery.
The Knee Replacement Procedure
The surgery is performed under regional or general anesthesia and typically takes 1-2 hours. An incision is made over the front of the knee, and the damaged bone ends are precisely prepared to accept the prosthetic components.
The femoral component (metal) is placed on the end of the thigh bone, the tibial component (metal with a plastic insert) on the top of the shin bone, and the patellar component (plastic) on the back of the kneecap. The components are fixed with bone cement or press-fit techniques.
After implant placement, the knee is taken through a full range of motion to ensure stability and proper tracking. The incision is closed, and a sterile dressing is applied.
Recovery After Knee Replacement
Hospital stay is typically 2-4 days. Physical therapy begins on the first day after surgery, focusing on gentle range of motion exercises, strengthening, and walking with assistance.
At home, patients continue with prescribed exercises, ice therapy, and pain management. Most patients walk with a walker or crutches for 2-4 weeks, then transition to a cane. Driving resumes at 4-6 weeks for the left knee and 6-8 weeks for the right knee.
Full recovery takes 3-6 months, with continued improvement for up to one year. Most patients experience significant pain relief and functional improvement within 6-12 weeks after surgery.
Treatment & Recovery Overview
Treatment Options
- •Physical therapy
- •Pain management
- •Assistive device training
- •Home exercise program
- •Activity modification guidance
Recovery Outlook
Recovery from knee replacement follows a structured pathway: hospital stay (2-4 days), early mobilization, home rehabilitation (weeks 1-6), outpatient physical therapy (weeks 6-12), and gradual return to full activities (3-12 months).
Benefits
- ✓Significant pain relief
- ✓Improved mobility and function
- ✓Enhanced quality of life
- ✓Correction of deformity
- ✓Long-term durability
Risks & Considerations
- •Infection
- •Blood clots (DVT)
- •Implant loosening
- •Nerve or blood vessel injury
- •Stiffness
- •Persistent pain
- •Fracture around the implant
Alternative Treatments
Surgery is not always the first option. Depending on your specific condition, these alternatives may be appropriate:
Related Information
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Common Symptoms
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a knee replacement last?
Modern knee replacements typically last 15-25 years. The longevity depends on activity level, weight, and surgical technique. Regular follow-up is recommended to monitor implant condition.
Is knee replacement painful?
Pain is managed effectively with a combination of regional anesthesia, nerve blocks, oral medications, and ice therapy. Most patients report that post-operative pain is less severe than their pre-operative arthritis pain.
When can I walk after knee replacement?
Most patients stand and walk with assistance on the first day after surgery. By 2-4 weeks, walking with a cane is typical. Unassisted walking is usually achieved by 6-8 weeks.
What is the cost of knee replacement in Nepal?
Knee replacement in Nepal is significantly more affordable than in Western countries while maintaining high quality standards. Contact the clinic for specific pricing.
Can I bend my knee after replacement?
Yes, regaining knee bending is a key goal of rehabilitation. Most patients achieve 110-130 degrees of flexion, sufficient for all daily activities including sitting, climbing stairs, and squatting to a limited degree.
Take the Next Step
If knee pain is affecting your daily life, a consultation can help determine whether knee replacement is the right option for you.