In a procedure known as knee replacement, damaged or diseased parts of the knee joint are surgically removed and replaced with prosthetic devices. Its primary purpose is to ease the discomfort and stiffness of osteoarthritis in the knee.

Most patients undergoing this procedure have severe cases of knee arthritis, characterised by severe cartilage wear and tear, pitting, erosion, and unevenness of the knee’s surface. Pain, stiffness, instability, and skewed body alignment are all results. Some persons with an injured or otherwise compromised knee joint may benefit from knee replacement surgery. But before doing knee replacement surgery you have to know about Knee replacement surgery cost (ผ่าตัดเปลี่ยนข้อเข่า ราคา, which is the term in Thai)

How Is A Total Knee Replacement Performed?

To begin, the knee is incised (cut), and the patella (kneecap) is shifted to the side by the orthopaedic surgeon. Bone spurs, or small bony outgrowths, may develop due to osteoarthritis and will be surgically removed if this is the case.

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and sometimes the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) are then cut, as are the two menisci between the femur and tibia. The PCL is sometimes saved after knee replacement procedures.

During the bulk of the procedure, the surgeon makes incisions in the upper tibia and lower femur to remove cartilage and a small amount of bone. The femoral condyles, two knobby protuberances, are the parts of the thighbone that are cut away. Metal implants are placed over the tibia and femur to form new joint surfaces. The artificial femoral condyle’s surface is designed to look like the real thing. The underside of the kneecap may be removed and replaced with a polyethene implant if it has also deteriorated.

Dissolvable sutures are used to heal the various layers of tissue, and sutures or surgical staples are used to close the incision in the skin. The injured knee will be bandaged, and the patient will be transported to the recovery room.

The orthopaedic surgeon may occasionally use robotic technologies to aid in the procedure.

What Kind Of Anesthesia Is Used In A Knee Replacement?

Most knee replacements are done under local rather than general anaesthesia. An epidural block is a form of anaesthesia used during labour and delivery. The epidural anaesthetic numbs the lower body, ensuring the patient feels no pain during the operation. Patients are also given a mild sedative to be as tired or alert as they like throughout the procedure.

Conclusion

A full recovery from a knee replacement may take many months, so patients must have realistic expectations heading into this crucial rehabilitation stage. It is important to elevate the operated-on knee to reduce postoperative swelling and to take pain medication as advised. Many patients can get off the floor within a few days and walk with crutches.