Knee Replacement in Nanded | Shree Venkateshwara Hospital

What Is Knee Replacement Surgery?

Knee replacement, also known as knee arthroplasty, is a procedure where damaged parts of the knee joint are replaced with artificial implants (prostheses). These implants are carefully shaped to mimic the natural joint, allowing smoother movement and relief from pain.

During surgery, the worn-out surfaces of the thigh bone, shin bone, and sometimes the kneecap are resurfaced and replaced with prosthetic parts. A new knee joint typically functions very close to normal, and most implants last 15 years or more. The procedure is safe, with long-term success rates around 97% after 12 years of follow-up.

Who May Need Knee Replacement?

Your doctor may recommend knee replacement if you experience:

Severe arthritis of the knee joint
Persistent pain that interferes with daily activities and self-care
Significant leg deformity (such as bowed or knock-knees)
Arthritis following an injury to the knee joint
Rheumatoid arthritis or other inflammatory joint disease
Long-standing knee pain and swelling not relieved by other treatments

Types of Knee Replacement Surgery

Total Knee Replacement (TKR)

Total knee replacement, the entire joint surface is replaced with three prosthetic components:

Femoral component (thigh bone): Made of metal, covers the end of the femur
Tibial component (shin bone): A metal base with a durable medical-grade plastic (UHMWPE) insert
Patellar component (kneecap): A plastic dome that may or may not be replaced depending on your condition

For patients with arthritis in both knees, a bilateral replacement may be recommended. Modern techniques, including computer-assisted navigation, help surgeons achieve precise implant alignment and improve long-term outcomes.

Partial (Unicondylar) Knee Replacement

In some patients, only one side of the knee is damaged. In these cases, a partial or unicondylar knee replacement may be performed. This procedure is less extensive, typically less costly, and allows for faster recovery. Only your surgeon can determine if you are a candidate for this option.

Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement

Robotic systems help surgeons plan and perform knee replacement with greater accuracy. Benefits include better implant alignment, less tissue damage, faster recovery, and improved long-term outcomes. The surgeon remains in full control—the robot simply enhances precision.

Understanding the Knee Joint

The knee is a hinge joint where the thigh bone (femur) and shin bone (tibia) meet. The ends of the bones are cushioned by smooth cartilage, supported by ligaments, tendons, and muscles that provide stability and motion. When this cartilage wears out, bones rub against each other, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Knee replacement restores these surfaces, giving back comfort and function.

What to Expect After Surgery

Immediately After Surgery

You will be moved to a recovery area for monitoring.
A bandage and drain tube may be placed around your knee to reduce swelling and prevent infection.
An intravenous (IV) line delivers fluids, antibiotics, and sometimes blood transfusions.
In some cases, a urinary catheter may be used temporarily.
Your vital signs, such as heart rate and blood pressure, will be continuously monitored.

Physiotherapy and Recovery

First 24 hours: Gentle in-bed exercises are started under supervision.
Day 1–2: The drain is removed, and you may sit up with support.
Day 2–3: You will be encouraged to stand and take steps with a walker.
End of week 1: Walking with assistance becomes easier; you may use the restroom with a raised seat.
2 weeks: Stitches are removed.
3 weeks: Most patients can walk with a stick and gradually increase activity.

With regular physiotherapy, most people experience significant pain relief, improved mobility, and better quality of life.

Anatomy of the knee

Joints are the areas where 2 or more bones meet. Most joints are mobile, allowing the bones to move Basically, the knee is 2 long leg bones held together by muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Each bone end is covered with a layer of cartilage that absorbs shock and protect the knee.

Key Takeaways

Knee replacement is a safe and effective procedure for people with severe knee arthritis or long-term pain.
Both total and partial replacements are available depending on your condition.
Early physiotherapy and guided rehabilitation are essential for recovery.
Most implants last well over a decade, giving patients years of improved mobility and independence.

Dr Shubham Tungenwar is a Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon with a specialist focus on Hip and Knee Arthroplasty, Robotic Knee Surgery, Sports Injuries, Arthroscopy, and Complex Orthopaedic Trauma. He earned his MS and DNB in Orthopaedics from Topiwala National Medical College, Mumbai, where he also completed his medical training and went on to serve as a postgraduate resident and Senior Registrar for more than four years.

Dr Tungenwar undertook advanced fellowship training and an MCh in Hip & Knee Surgery and Robotic Knee Arthroplasty at Broadgreen and Aintree Hospitals in Liverpool, working alongside leading Hip & Knee consultants in the UK. He has also been awarded the International Diploma in Trauma & Orthopaedics by SICOT (Belgium).

With a strong belief in evidence-based practice, Dr Tungenwar is dedicated to improving outcomes and quality of life for patients with musculoskeletal conditions. He is passionate about applying the latest surgical techniques and technologies to deliver precise, effective, and patient-centred orthopaedic care.

Knee Replacement