Knee Replacement Surgery: Cost, Recovery, and Success Rate Explained

Knee replacement surgery, also known as knee arthroplasty, is a procedure that replaces damaged knee joint surfaces with artificial implants to relieve pain and restore mobility. It’s typically recommended when conservative treatments like medicines, injections, and physiotherapy fail to control pain from severe arthritis or injury.

Globally, over 1 million knee replacements are performed each year, with India witnessing nearly 2.5 lakh successful surgeries annually, reflecting growing trust in this life-changing procedure.

Indications and Types of Knee Replacement

Common Indications

The most frequent reasons for undergoing knee replacement surgery include:

  • Osteoarthritis – age-related wear and tear of joint cartilage.
  • Rheumatoid arthritis – autoimmune inflammation damaging the knee.
  • Post-traumatic arthritis – arthritis following fractures or ligament injuries.

Types of Knee Replacement

  1. Total Knee Replacement (TKR):
    The entire joint surface of the thighbone (femur) and shinbone (tibia) is replaced with metal and plastic components. It’s the most common type.

  2. Partial (Unicompartmental) Knee Replacement (PKR):
    Only the damaged part of the knee is replaced, preserving healthy cartilage and bone. Suitable for early arthritis affecting a single compartment.

  3. Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement:
    Advanced computer-guided surgery offering greater precision, less blood loss, and faster recovery. It aligns implants more accurately than manual methods.


(Source: Google)

Preoperative Information

Are You a Candidate?

You may be a suitable candidate if:

  • You have chronic knee pain and stiffness affecting daily activities.
  • X-rays show advanced joint damage.
  • Conservative measures have failed.
  • You are medically fit for anesthesia.

Pre-Surgery Workup

Preoperative evaluation includes:

  • Blood tests, ECG, and chest X-ray.
  • Knee X-rays or CT scans.
  • Medical clearance for heart and lungs.
  • Prehabilitation physiotherapy to strengthen muscles for faster recovery.

Preparation Tips

  • Control diabetes, blood pressure, and weight before surgery.
  • Avoid smoking and alcohol.
  • Arrange postoperative support and home safety modifications.

Surgical Procedure Explained (in Simple Terms)

  • The surgery is done under spinal or general anesthesia.
  • The surgeon removes the damaged bone and cartilage from the femur and tibia.
  • These surfaces are replaced with metal or ceramic implants, separated by a polyethylene spacer for smooth movement.
  • Modern implants may be cemented or uncemented, depending on bone quality.
  • The entire procedure typically lasts 60–90 minutes.



(Source: Google)

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Hospital Stay and Timeline

  • Hospital stay: 3–5 days (can vary).
  • Walking: Usually within 24–48 hours post-surgery.
  • Stair climbing: 1–2 weeks.
  • Driving: Around 6 weeks.
  • Full recovery: 2–3 months with regular physiotherapy.

Pain Management

Pain is well-controlled using multimodal techniques—nerve blocks, epidurals, and oral medications.

Postoperative Physiotherapy

  • Early movement prevents stiffness and clot formation.
  • Strengthening and range-of-motion exercises help regain normal gait.

Risks and Complications

While modern knee replacement has a success rate exceeding 95%, potential risks include:

  • Infection (less than 1%)
  • Blood clots
  • Implant loosening or wear
  • Knee stiffness
  • Nerve or vascular injury (rare)

Prevention Tips

  • Follow antibiotic prophylaxis and wound care.
  • Use compression stockings and blood thinners.
  • Maintain ideal weight to reduce implant stress.

Cost and Insurance Coverage in India

City Type     Average Cost (INR)         Robotic Surgery (INR)
Metro Cities (Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai)     ₹2.5 – 4.5 lakhs         ₹5 – 7 lakhs
Tier-2 Cities     ₹1.8 – 3.2 lakhs         ₹4 – 5.5 lakhs

Insurance and Government Schemes

  • Ayushman Bharat: Covers up to ₹1.5 lakh for knee replacement in empaneled hospitals.
  • CGHS/ECHS: Full reimbursement in recognized hospitals.
  • Private Insurance: Most policies cover knee replacement after a 2–3 year waiting period.

Longevity and Outcomes

Modern implants typically last 15–25 years, depending on activity levels, body weight, and implant type.
Patients usually experience:

  • 80–90% reduction in pain.
  • Major improvement in mobility and quality of life.
  • Return to normal daily activities.

Revision Surgery

Rarely required, but may be needed if the implant wears out or loosens over decades.

Comparison: Knee Replacement vs Other Treatments

Feature     Knee Replacement Physiotherapy/Arthroscopy
Pain Relief     Excellent     Temporary/Partial
Joint Function     Restored     Limited
Suitable For     End-stage arthritis     Early-stage arthritis
Longevity     15–25 years     Varies
Cost     Higher initially         Lower, but repeated costs possible

Traditional vs Robotic Knee Replacement

  • Robotic: More accurate, faster recovery, higher cost.
  • Traditional: Reliable, cost-effective, slightly higher chance of minor misalignment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)


1. What is the recovery time after knee replacement?
Most patients resume daily activities in 6–8 weeks and full recovery in about 3 months.


2. Is knee replacement painful?
Mild discomfort is common initially, but modern pain control methods make recovery comfortable.


3. Can I squat or sit cross-legged after surgery?
Not usually recommended, especially after total replacement. Partial replacements may allow limited flexion.


4. What age is ideal for knee replacement?
Typically between 55–75 years, but can vary based on symptoms and bone health.


5. How long does a knee implant last?
Modern implants can last up to 20–25 years with proper care.


6. Is robotic knee replacement better?
It offers improved alignment and precision, especially for younger or active patients, but costs more.


7. Can knee replacement fail?
Rarely. Failure may occur due to infection, implant loosening, or severe trauma.


8. How to avoid knee replacement naturally?
Maintain a healthy weight, do regular low-impact exercise, and manage arthritis early through physiotherapy and medication.

Conclusion

Knee replacement surgery is a highly effective, proven solution for chronic knee arthritis when other treatments fail. It offers lasting pain relief, better mobility, and an improved quality of life for millions worldwide.

If you or your loved one suffers from persistent knee pain, consult an orthopedic specialist to discuss suitable options—be it physiotherapy, medication, or advanced surgical techniques like robotic-assisted replacement.

“Most patients tell me their only regret is not having the surgery sooner,” says Dr. Markandaiya Acharya, Orthopedic Surgeon, Govt. of Odisha.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Cellulitis: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options

Image
A few days ago, a young man walked into my clinic, visibly frustrated and anxious. He had developed swelling in his foot following a seemingly minor burn injury—a superficial scald from his bike’s silencer. Although the wound itself was small and not deep, the aftermath had taken a heavy toll on him, both physically and mentally. The swelling had become a significant concern. He could no longer wear footwear, making even basic mobility a struggle. Despite consulting a local physician, his condition remained unchanged, leaving him even more distressed. Sensing his frustration, I listened carefully and approached the case with empathy. As I gently palpated the affected area, my clinical suspicion was quickly confirmed. ( Image Showing Cellulitis ) Cellulitis:  Cellulitis is characterized as an acute bacterial infection, primarily affecting the dermis and surrounding subcutaneous tissue, without the formation of abscesses or purulent discharge. It is noted for its significant public...
Read more

Arthroscopy in 2025: Innovations, Recovery Tips & Key Insights

Image
  In the fast-evolving world of orthopedic innovations, arthroscopy stands out as a game-changer for millions suffering from joint pain. As we step into 2025, breakthroughs like robotic-assisted arthroscopy and advanced imaging techniques are making minimally invasive surgery safer, more precise, and accessible than ever before. But what does this mean for you if you're dealing with knee pain, shoulder issues, or other joint problems? Imagine waking up with chronic knee pain that limits your daily walks, or a shoulder injury that makes simple tasks like lifting groceries unbearable. For many, the thought of surgery conjures images of long hospital stays, excruciating pain, and months of downtime. Common misconceptions paint arthroscopy as a risky, invasive procedure, but in reality, it's a minimally invasive surgery that's revolutionized orthopedic care. In 2025, arthroscopy isn't just about fixing joints, it's about restoring lives with minimal disruption. This pr...
Read more

Foot and Ankle Swelling Demystified

Image
If you've ever glanced down at your feet after a long day and noticed they're puffier than usual, you're not alone. Foot and ankle swelling, also known as edema, is a common issue that can range from a minor annoyance to a signal of something more serious. Whether you're a patient worried about those swollen ankles or a clinician seeking a quick reference for differential diagnosis, this guide breaks it down in a reassuring, straightforward way. We'll explore foot and ankle swelling causes, symptoms, diagnostic tests for ankle swelling, and practical steps for relief—because understanding the problem is the first step toward feeling better. Rest assured, most cases of swollen feet are temporary and manageable at home. But knowing when to dig deeper can make all the difference.   What Causes Foot and Ankle Swelling? Swelling happens when excess fluid builds up in the tissues of your feet and ankles, often due to gravity pulling fluid downward or issues with circu...
Read more