Partial Knee Replacement In Delhi

The knee joint is where three bones meet, the femur (thigh), tibia (leg) and patella (knee cap). The area where they meet is covered with a polish called cartilage. This facilitates smooth movement between the bones with less friction.

As we get older or due to certain diseases the cartilage gets destroyed and bone rubs against bone causing friction and pain. Cartilage cannot be produced by the body and thus needs to be replaced with another smooth surface. The knee is preserved buy a cap around 1cm thick is put over the knee that reduces friction and acts like cartilage.

When the loss of cartilage is only in one third of the knee, either the inside, outside or knee cap region, then a cap needs to be put only in that compartment. This is known as partial knee replacement. This can be Medial or Lateral unicompartment knee replacement or patella femoral knee replacement.

What is Partial Knee Replacement Surgery (Unicondylar)?

A unicondylar knee arthroplasty, also known as a partial or unicompartmental knee replacement, is a less invasive alternative to total knee arthroplasty. Partial knee arthroplasty aims only to replace the portion of the knee affected by arthritis, leaving the healthier portions unaffected. Partial knee replacement patients benefit from fewer scars, a quicker healing process, and an increased range of motion.

Partial knee replacement in Delhi is available with Dr Vikram Mhaskar.

Who Needs Partial Knee Replacement Surgery (Unicondylar)?

Although most patients over the age of 55 are candidates for this procedure, it may be performed on younger patients who are still relatively immobile due to knee damage. Patients who do not have rheumatoid arthritis, have arthritis that is limited to one area of the knee, and have healthy ligaments are good candidates.

The doctor will perform a physical examination to determine which area of the knee is causing the pain and whether a unicondylar knee arthroplasty is the best course of treatment for a specific patient. Imaging tests, such as X-rays and MRI scans, will also be carried out to pinpoint the exact location and extent of cartilage damage.

You may schedule a consultation with Dr Vikram Mhaskar for partial knee replacement in Delhi.

Diagnosis of Partial Knee Replacement Surgery In Delhi (Unicondylar)

The partial knee replacement surgery involves the removal of damaged tissue and bones in the knee joint, usually when arthritis is present only in the part of a knee. The damaged area is replaced with an artificial implant or a prosthetic. This replacement surgery is a process of preservation of the rest of the knee. The surgery is typically done with a small incision which helps reduce the recovery time.

The diagnosis for partial knee replacement surgery can be done by the following:

• If the osteoarthritis has advanced and the non-surgical treatment options no longer seem to be working.
• For the right candidature of partial knee replacement surgery, the arthritis needs to be limited to one compartment of the knee.
• If the patient has following characteristics:
• Significant knee stiffness
• Inflammatory arthritis
• Ligament damage

Procedure of Partial Knee Replacement In Delhi (Unicondylar)

1. Before surgery the patient will be given anesthesia which helps block pain.
2. Generally two types of anesthesia is administered:
• General anesthesia: the patient will remain asleep and pain free during the procedure.
• Regional anesthesia: only the area below the waist is numbed with its help.
3. After the administration of anesthesia, the surgeon makes a 3 to 5 inches or 7.5 to 13 cm long incision over the knee.
4. After this the surgeon performs the following steps:
• The surgeon examines the entire knee joint and if there’s damage in more than one part of the knee, the total knee replacement might be needed.
• The ruined bone and tissues are removed and an artificial part made from metal and plastic is placed into the knee
• Once the artificial part is properly placed, it is attached with the bone cement and the wound is closed with stitches.

How to prepare for Unicondylar Knee Replacement Surgery?

A few weeks before the surgery

• Exercising should be done under the supervision of your doctor.
• Schedule a physical examination.
• Get a dental examination.
• Stop smoking.
• You should lose weight if you are overweight.

Prior to the procedure

• Make an appointment with your doctor prior to surgery to discuss and ask any questions you may have.
• Obtain the lab tests that your doctor has prescribed.
• Select and consult with a physical therapist to learn some crucial post-surgery activities.
• Make sure you don't eat or drink anything the night before the fast.

What to expect After Unicondylar Knee Replacement Surgery?

A partial knee replacement recovery is typically shorter and more comfortable than a total knee arthroplasty recovery. Unicondylar knee replacement is a minimally invasive procedure that is performed through a smaller incision. However, even a partial knee replacement usually necessitates a one to a three-day hospital stay. Dr Vikram Mhaskar is your best choice for partial knee replacement in Delhi. At our facility, we perform this surgery on a daycare basis with only a 24 hr hospital stay.

Most knee replacement patients are encouraged to walk with assistance, such as a cane, walker, or crutches, on a level surface and climb two or three stairs within one to four days of surgery or before discharge from the hospital. Once you've been transferred to a regular hospital room, the physical therapist will recommend exercises for your new knee.

Because physical activity will cause discomfort initially, the doctor may advise you to take pain medication before beginning physical therapy. Your pain medication will be reduced gradually, your diet will change to solids, and you will become more mobile. Movement is required for a healthy recovery. Most people can return to their normal routines within 3 to 6 weeks of recovering from surgery.

Schedule an appointment with us for partial knee replacement in Delhi.