Know Your Implant: Knee Replacement Surgery
Introduction
The Knee replacement procedure, also known as knee arthroplasty, involves replacing a damaged or worn-out knee joint with an artificial joint also known as prosthesis. It is a common procedure performed to alleviate chronic pain and improve mobility in individuals suffering from severe knee conditions, such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or traumatic injuries.
During knee replacement surgery, the damaged parts of the knee joint, including the ends of the thigh bone (femur) and shin bone (tibia), are removed and replaced with metal or plastic components that mimic the natural joint surfaces. The prosthesis is designed to provide stability, restore joint function, and reduce pain.
The procedure can be performed using different techniques, including traditional total knee replacement, minimally invasive knee replacement, or partial knee replacement, depending on the extent and location of the knee damage. The choice of technique is typically determined by the patient's condition and the surgeon's expertise.
Post-surgery, a comprehensive rehabilitation program is usually recommended to help patients regain strength, flexibility, and mobility in the knee joint. This may involve physical therapy, exercises, pain management, and lifestyle adjustments to ensure a successful recovery.
It's important to note that knee replacement is considered a major surgery and involves risks and potential complications. Therefore, it is crucial to have a thorough discussion with a qualified orthopedic surgeon to determine if knee replacement is the appropriate treatment option for your specific condition.
What are the types of Knee Replacement Surgery?
- Total Knee Replacement (TKR): Also known as total knee arthroplasty, this is the most common type of knee replacement surgery. Artificial components are used to replace the entire knee joint. The damaged ends of the femur and tibia bones are removed and replaced with metal implants, while a plastic spacer is inserted between them to allow smooth movement.
- Partial Knee Replacement (PKR): In some cases, only a portion of the knee joint may be damaged. It may be necessary to perform a partial knee replacement in such cases. This procedure involves replacing only the damaged compartment of the knee with artificial components, while preserving the healthy parts. It is a less invasive surgery with a quicker recovery time compared to total knee replacement.
- Minimally Invasive Knee Replacement: This technique utilizes smaller incisions and specialized instruments, allowing for a less invasive approach to knee replacement surgery. It aims to minimize muscle and tissue disruption, potentially leading to reduced pain, faster recovery, and smaller scars. Minimally invasive knee replacement can be performed as either a total or partial knee replacement, depending on the patient's condition.
What are the types of knee implants used in knee replacement surgery?
Posterior Stabilized Knee Implant- A posterior stabilized knee implant is a type of knee prosthesis that is designed to provide stability and support to the knee joint. The posterior stabilized knee implant consists of several components, including a metal femoral component that replaces the end of the thigh bone (femur), a plastic (polyethylene) tibial component that replaces the top of the shin bone (tibia), and a plastic spacer that sits between the two components. Additionally, there is a posterior stabilizing cam mechanism that helps prevent excessive movement and provides stability to the knee during bending and straightening.
This design mimics the natural function of the knee, allowing for better range of motion and stability. The posterior stabilized knee implant is particularly beneficial for patients with damaged or absent ligaments in the knee, as it helps compensate for the loss of ligament function and provides additional stability.
Cruciate Retaining Knee Implant- A cruciate-retaining implant is another type of knee prosthesis used in total knee replacement surgeries. The cruciate-retaining implant consists of a metal femoral component, a plastic (polyethylene) tibial component, and a plastic spacer that allows smooth movement between the two components. Unlike a posterior stabilized implant, the cruciate-retaining implant does not have a specific mechanism to replace the function of the ACL. Instead, the implant is designed to work in conjunction with the patient's existing ACL.
This type of implant is commonly used when the ACL is intact and functioning well. By preserving the natural ACL, the cruciate-retaining implant aims to maintain stability and provide a more natural feel to the knee joint during activities such as walking, running, and pivoting.
What are the most Commonly Used knee implants?
The most commonly used knee implant in total knee replacement surgery is the fixed-bearing implant. This type of implant consists of a metal femoral component, a plastic (polyethylene) tibial component, and a plastic spacer in between. The plastic spacer allows for smooth movement between the metal components.
Fixed-bearing implants are widely used because they have a long track record of success and provide excellent stability and function to the knee joint. They have been extensively studied and proven to be effective in relieving pain and improving mobility in patients with severe knee arthritis or other knee conditions.
What are the types of knee implants based on material?
Strong plastic components, ceramic material, and metal alloys are used to create implants. A total knee replacement may replace up to three bone surfaces:
The Lower End of the Femur- The metal femoral component curves around the end of the femur (thighbone).It has grooves so that as the knee bends and straightens, the kneecap can slide smoothly against the bone in upward and downward direction.
The Tibia (Shinbone)'s upper surface- The tibial component is often a flat metal platform with a polyethylene cushion on top of it. In some configurations, the polyethylene adheres directly to the bone in place of the metal component. The metal portion of the component may feature a stem that goes into the tibia bone's middle for added stability.
The Back Surface of Patella- The patellar component is a dome-shaped piece of polyethylene that duplicates the shape of the patella (kneecap).The patella doesn't always need to be resurfaced.
How much does a knee replacement surgery costs?
In India, the cost of a total knee replacement surgery with a posterior- stabilized knee implant and cruciate-retaining knee implant may vary, but it is generally more affordable compared to other countries. The cost will depend on factors such as city or region where the surgery is performed, the specific hospital or medical facility, the surgeon’s fees, and any additional services or complications that may arise.
On average the cost of total knee replacement surgery in India can range from approximately INR ₹ 1,61,000 - ₹ 5,00,000. This cost typically includes the implant, hospital fees, anesthesia,surgeons fees, per-operative and post-operative care and any necessary follow up appointments. It is important to note that these figures are estimated and can vary depending on individual circumstances
Conclusion -
In Conclusion, knee replacement surgery is a common procedure performed to alleviate pain, restore function and improve the quality of life for individuals with severe knee arthritis or other knee conditions. It involves replacing the damage or diseased knee joint with an artificial implant.
There are different types of knee implants available, including cruciate-retaining and posterior-stabilized implants. The choice of implant depends on various factors, such as the patients knee anatomy, ligament integrity and the surgeons expertise.
The cost of knee replacement surgery, including the implant, can vary depending on factors such as the country or region where the surgery is performed, the specific hospital or medical facility, the surgeons fees, insurance coverage, and any additional medical services or complications.
It is important to consult with an orthopaedics surgeon or healthcare provider to determine the most suitable implant and to get a more accurate estimate of the cost based on individual circumstances. Additionally, it is advisable to check with insurance providers to understand coverage and any out-of-pocket expenses.
Overall, Knee replacement surgery can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals suffering from knee pain and mobility issues. It is a decision that should be made in consultation with healthcare professional, considering the individuals specific needs and circumstances.
