Partial Knee Replacement Surgery In Delhi

Partial knee replacement, also acknowledged as unicompartmental knee replacement, is a surgical procedure performed to treat specific knee conditions where only one part of the knee joint is affected by arthritis or damage. It is a less invasive alternative to total knee replacement and is suitable for patients with localised knee pain and joint degeneration limited to one compartment of the knee.

During the procedure, the damaged portion of the knee joint is replaced with artificial components made of metal and plastic. The unaffected areas of the knee joint, including the ligaments and healthy cartilage, are preserved. This allows for a smaller incision, reduced blood loss, and a faster recovery compared to total knee replacement.

Partial knee replacement offers several benefits, such as improved joint function, reduced pain, and a more natural feeling knee. It also typically requires a shorter hospital stay and rehabilitation period. However, it is essential for patients to undergo a thorough evaluation to determine if they are suitable candidates for this procedure.

Partial Knee Replacement Surgery Procedure

Also acknowledged as half knee replacement, partial knee replacement surgery is a surgical procedure used to treat advanced osteoarthritis or other knee conditions that affect only one compartment of the knee joint. Unlike total knee replacement, which replaces the entire knee joint, partial knee replacement involves replacing only the damaged portion of the knee joint with an artificial implant. Here is a general overview of the procedure:

Preoperative Preparation - Before the surgery, you will undergo a thorough examination, including medical history review, physical examination, and imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI scans. This helps the surgeon assess the extent of knee damage and determine if you are a suitable candidate for partial knee replacement.
Anaesthesia - On the day of the surgery, you will be given anaesthesia to ensure that you are comfortable and pain-free during the procedure. The anaesthesia options can vary and may include general anaesthesia (puts you to sleep) or regional anaesthesia (numbs the lower body).
Incision - Once the anaesthesia has taken effect, Dr Rajesh Malhotra, a well-known partial knee replacement doctor in Delhi, will make a small incision over the affected knee to access the joint.
Joint Exposure - The surgeon with his team will carefully move aside the surrounding tissues and muscles to gain clear access to the damaged compartment of the knee joint.
Resurfacing - Using specialised instruments, the surgeon will remove the damaged bone and cartilage from the affected compartment of the knee joint. The goal is to create space for the artificial implant.
Implant Placement - The doctor will then insert the artificial implant into the prepared area. The implant typically consists of metal and plastic components that replicate the natural knee joint structure. The components may be cemented in place or designed for press-fit fixation, depending on the specific implant used.
Testing and Adjustments - Once the implant is in place, the surgeon will check the knee's range of motion, stability, and alignment. He may make any necessary adjustments to ensure optimal function and fit.
Closure - After confirming the proper positioning and stability of the implant, the surgeon will close the incision using sutures or staples. He or his team may also use adhesive or surgical tape to secure the wound.
Postoperative Care - You will be transferred to the recovery area where you will be monitored closely. Physical therapy and rehabilitation will be an essential part of your recovery process to regain strength, flexibility, and mobility in the knee joint.

It is important to note that this is a general overview, and the specific details of the surgery can vary depending on the individual case and the surgeon's preferences. It's crucial for you to discuss all about your partial knee replacement surgery with Dr Rajesh Malhotra.

Whom Do We Recommend Partial Knee Replacement Surgery?

Partial knee replacement surgery is a surgical procedure used to treat knee arthritis when the damage is limited to a specific compartment of the knee joint. It involves replacing only the damaged portion of the knee joint with artificial components, while preserving the healthy parts. Here are a few factors that Dr Rajesh Malhotra, a renowned partial knee replacement doctor in Delhi, considers whether his patients need a partial knee replacement surgery or not:

Extent of Knee Damage - Partial knee replacement is suitable when the damage is confined to one compartment of the knee joint, typically the medial (inner) compartment or lateral (outer) compartment.
Pain and Symptoms - If you are experiencing significant pain and disability in the affected compartment of your knee, he may advise you for partial knee replacement instead of conservative treatments such as medication, physical therapy, or assistive devices.
Age and Activity Level - Partial knee replacement is often recommended for younger, active individuals who have a limited extent of knee arthritis and want to maintain their mobility and participate in sports or other activities.
Overall Knee Alignment - Your knee alignment and stability are important factors in determining the suitability of partial knee replacement. If you have significant deformity or instability in your knee, partial knee replacement may not be the best option.
Medical History and Overall Health - Your half knee replacement surgeon in Delhi will consider your overall health, medical history, and any other existing medical conditions before recommending any surgical procedure.

Ultimately, the decision to undergo partial knee replacement surgery is made on an individual basis after a thorough evaluation by him. He will assess your specific condition and provide personalised recommendations based on his expertise and your unique circumstances.

Partial Knee Replacement Surgery Cost in Delhi

The cost of partial knee replacement surgery in Delhi (India) can vary depending on several factors such as the hospital, surgeon's experience, the type of implant used, and the complexity of the case. On average, the partial knee replacement cost in Delhi can range from INR 2,50,000 to INR 6,00,000 ($3,400 to $8,200) for a single knee. This cost generally includes the pre-operative evaluation, surgery, hospital stay, surgeon's fees, anaesthesia, implants, medications, and post-operative rehabilitation. Having a consultation with Dr Rajesh Malhotra, a highly experienced partial knee replacement doctor in Delhi, will help you get accurate and up-to-date pricing information.

Benefits of Partial Knee Replacement

Unlike total knee replacement, which involves replacing the entire knee joint, partial knee replacement only addresses the affected compartment of the knee. This procedure offers several benefits compared to total knee replacement, making it a suitable option for certain patients. Here are some benefits of partial knee replacement:

Preservation of healthy tissue - Partial knee replacement preserves healthy tissue and ligaments in the knee joint. Since only the damaged compartment is replaced, the surgeon can retain the unaffected parts of the knee. This preservation of healthy tissue contributes to better knee function, stability, and natural movement after surgery.
Faster recovery - Partial knee replacement generally involves a smaller incision and less invasive surgical techniques compared to total knee replacement. This leads to reduced trauma to the surrounding tissues and muscles, resulting in a quicker recovery period. Patients undergoing partial knee replacement typically experience less pain, have a shorter hospital stay, and require less rehabilitation compared to total knee replacement.
Improved range of motion - The preservation of healthy tissue and ligaments in partial knee replacement allows for improved range of motion in the affected knee. Patients often experience better flexion and extension, enabling them to perform activities such as walking, climbing stairs, and bending the knee with greater ease and comfort.
Reduced risk of complications - Partial knee replacement has a lower risk of certain complications compared to total knee replacement. Since the procedure is less invasive, the chances of blood clots, infection, and nerve damage are relatively lower. Additionally, partial knee replacement reduces the risk of complications associated with implant wear and loosening in the long term, as only one compartment is replaced.
Improved natural feel and function - Partial knee replacement aims to replicate the natural anatomy and function of the knee joint as closely as possible. The implant used in partial knee replacement is designed to provide stability, smooth movement, and a more natural feel to the knee. This allows patients to engage in various activities, including sports and recreational pursuits, with greater comfort and confidence.
Lower revision rate - Revision surgery refers to the need for additional surgery to address complications or failures of the initial joint replacement. Partial knee replacement has a lower revision rate compared to total knee replacement. Since only one compartment is replaced, the remaining healthy portions of the knee joint remain intact, reducing the likelihood of further surgery in the future.
Preserves future treatment options - By preserving the unaffected compartments of the knee, partial knee replacement allows for potential future treatment options. If revision surgery or conversion to total knee replacement becomes necessary, the preserved healthy tissues provide more options for the surgeon to address the patient's specific needs.

Risks and Complications Associated with Partial Knee Replacement Surgery

In general, partial knee replacement is a safe and effective procedure. However, like any surgery, it carries certain risks and complications. Here are some of the potential risks and complications associated with it:

Infection - Infection is a possible complication of any surgical procedure, including partial knee replacement. Although stringent infection control measures are taken during surgery, there is still a small risk of developing an infection at the surgical site. Infections can be superficial or deep and may require further treatment, such as antibiotics or, in severe cases, revision surgery.
Blood clots - After surgery, there is a risk of developing blood clots in the legs, known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). These clots can be potentially dangerous if they dislodge and travel to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism. Blood thinners and measures to promote circulation, such as early mobilisation and compression stockings, are usually employed to reduce this risk.
Implant-related issues - Partial knee replacement implants can occasionally have complications. These include implant dislocation, loosening, wear, or failure. These issues may require revision surgery to address the problem.
Knee stiffness - Some patients may experience knee stiffness or limited range of motion following partial knee replacement surgery. This can be managed with physical therapy and exercises, but in some cases, additional surgical intervention may be necessary.
Nerve or blood vessel damage - During surgery, there is a small risk of injury to nearby nerves or blood vessels. This can lead to temporary or permanent numbness, tingling, or weakness in the leg. In rare cases, a major blood vessel may be damaged, requiring immediate repair.
Pain or discomfort - While the goal of partial knee replacement is to alleviate pain, some patients may still experience pain or discomfort after surgery. This can occur due to various reasons, such as incomplete relief of the underlying condition, infection, implant issues, or other complications.
Allergic reactions - Although rare, some patients may have an allergic reaction to the materials used in the knee implant. This can cause local or systemic symptoms that require medical attention.
Anaesthetic complications - Partial knee replacement surgery is typically performed under general or regional anaesthesia. While complications related to anaesthesia are relatively rare, they can include adverse reactions to medications, breathing difficulties, or cardiovascular issues.

It is crucial to note that these risks and complications are generally infrequent, and many patients experience successful outcomes with partial knee replacement surgery. However, Dr Rajesh Malhotra, a reputed half knee replacement surgeon in Delhi, with his team does his best to safeguard you from these risks and complications.

Recovery and Rehabilitation After Partial Knee Replacement Surgery

Recovery and rehabilitation after partial knee replacement surgery is an important process to ensure optimal healing and restoration of knee function. Here are some guidelines and information regarding the recovery and rehabilitation process:

Hospital Stay - After the surgery, you will typically stay in the hospital for a couple of days. During this time, the medical staff will monitor your condition and manage pain and discomfort.
Pain Management - Pain medication will be prescribed to manage post-operative pain. It is essential to take the medication as directed to stay comfortable during the recovery process.
Mobility and Weight-Bearing - Your surgeon will provide specific instructions regarding weight-bearing and mobility. You may be required to use crutches, a walker, or a cane initially. Gradually, you will be encouraged to put weight on the operated leg and progress to walking without assistance.
Physical Therapy - Physical therapy is a crucial part of the recovery process. You will typically start physical therapy within a few days after surgery. A physical therapist will guide you through exercises aimed at improving range of motion, strength, and flexibility in your knee.
Rehabilitation Exercises - Your physical therapist will design a customised exercise program for you, which may include - range of motion exercises, strengthening exercises, gait training, and balance & proprioception exercises.
Swelling and Ice - Swelling is common after knee surgery. You can manage swelling by applying ice packs to the affected area several times a day. Be sure to follow your surgeon's instructions on using ice and compression.
Wound Care - Proper care of the surgical incision is essential to prevent infection. Keep the incision area clean and dry, and follow any specific instructions provided by your surgeon regarding dressing changes or wound care.
Follow-up Visits - Regular follow-up visits with your surgeon will be scheduled to monitor your progress. During these visits, your surgeon will evaluate your knee's healing, remove any sutures or staples if necessary, and make any necessary adjustments to your rehabilitation plan.
Gradual Return to Activities - The time it takes to fully recover and return to regular activities varies for each individual. Your surgeon and physical therapist will guide you on when you can resume activities such as driving, work, and sports. It's important to listen to your body and not push yourself too hard, as gradual and controlled progression is key to a successful recovery.

Remember, every person's recovery timeline may differ based on individual factors and the extent of the surgery. It is essential for you to follow the specific instructions provided by Dr. Rajesh Malhotra and physical therapist to ensure a smooth and successful recovery from partial knee replacement surgery.