Knee Replacement
Total knee replacement (TKR) removes damaged cartilage and bone from the knee joint surfaces and replaces them with metal and plastic components that recreate a smooth, pain-free joint. The surgery is recommended for severe knee osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or post-traumatic arthritis that significantly impairs walking and quality of life. At Iswarya Hospital, robotic-assisted knee replacement provides sub-millimetre precision in implant positioning, leading to more natural movement and a longer-lasting joint.
🔬 How the Procedure Is Performed
- 1
Spinal or general anaesthesia is administered.
- 2
A tourniquet is placed on the thigh to minimise blood loss.
- 3
An incision is made over the front of the knee.
- 4
Robotic guidance (if used) helps the surgeon precisely resect damaged bone surfaces.
- 5
Metal femoral and tibial components are fixed to the bone; a plastic spacer is inserted between them.
- 6
The kneecap surface is resurfaced if required.
- 7
The knee is tested through full range of motion; the wound is closed.
✅ Benefits of Knee Replacement
- ✓Elimination of knee pain in over 90% of patients
- ✓Restoration of walking ability and function
- ✓Robotic-assisted technique provides unmatched precision in implant alignment
- ✓Faster recovery and more natural feel compared to conventional surgery
- ✓Modern implants designed to last 15–25 years
📋 How to Prepare
- Lose weight if BMI > 35 to improve outcomes and reduce complications.
- Strengthen quadriceps and hamstrings with physiotherapy before surgery.
- Arrange home modifications: raised toilet seat, bath bench, stair rail.
- Attend pre-operative patient education session.
- Blood tests, ECG, X-rays of both knees for surgical planning.
⚠️ Possible Risks & Side Effects
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) — prevented with blood thinners and compression stockings
- Infection — less than 1% with antibiotic prophylaxis
- Stiffness — intensive physiotherapy is essential to achieve full range of motion
- Anterior knee pain — the kneecap may need resurfacing at a later date
- Implant loosening after many years
Your surgeon will discuss all risks with you before the procedure and take appropriate precautions to minimise them.
💊 Post-Procedure Care
- Physiotherapy begins on the day after surgery — bending the knee and walking with a frame.
- Ice packs, elevation, and prescribed pain medications for the first week.
- Blood thinners (injections or tablets) for 4–6 weeks.
- Expect full recovery — walking without a stick, driving, managing stairs — by 3 months.
- Avoid high-impact activities (running, jumping) to prolong implant life.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Will I feel a difference between my new knee and a normal knee?
Most patients say the new knee feels different from a normal knee but not in a bad way. The key difference is the complete absence of the grinding pain they had before surgery.
When can I go up stairs after knee replacement?
Most patients can climb stairs step-over-step by 4–6 weeks, though they may initially use the handrail and lead with the non-operated leg going up.
Is robotic knee replacement better than conventional?
Robotic assistance allows more accurate bone cuts and implant positioning, which research suggests leads to improved component alignment, better function, and potentially longer implant survival.
🏥 Knee Replacement at Iswarya Hospital
At the forefront of advancements, offering robotic-assisted surgery for unmatched precision, safety, and faster recovery.
ℹ️ This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual treatment plans may vary. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any medical decisions.