Procedure guide · Orthopaedic surgery
A total knee replacement replaces the worn surfaces of the knee joint with metal and plastic parts. The NHS says it is most often used for pain and stiffness caused by osteoarthritis when other treatments have not helped. An orthopaedic surgeon in India reviews your X-rays and health history before advising whether it suits you.
What is a total knee replacement?
The NHS describes the operation. The surgeon makes a cut down the front of the knee and moves the kneecap aside. The damaged ends of the thigh bone and shin bone are removed and replaced with metal and plastic parts. Some people also have the back of the kneecap resurfaced. The NHS notes that the operation usually takes one to two hours.
It is done under a general anaesthetic or a spinal anaesthetic, which numbs you from the waist down while you stay awake. The NHS says knee replacements can last for 25 years.
Who may an orthopaedic surgeon consider for it?
The NHS says knee replacement may be recommended when other treatments or lifestyle changes have not worked and knee pain affects daily life. Osteoarthritis is the most common reason. The type of operation depends on how damaged the knee is, your age and your general health.
If only one part of the knee is worn, a partial knee replacement may be possible instead. Your surgeon decides which suits you after examining your knee and imaging. Conditions such as diabetes, heart disease or high body weight also shape the plan.
Which reports does a knee surgeon usually ask for?
Ask the hospital which of these it wants for a remote opinion:
- standing X-rays of both knees from the front and side
- any MRI scan of the knee
- a short note on your pain, walking distance and treatments tried
- blood tests including HbA1c if you have diabetes
- an ECG and any heart reports if you have heart disease
- a full medicine list, especially blood thinners and steroids
How do I plan a knee replacement trip?
Stages usually include remote review, a plan and estimate, visas, arrival and pre-operative checks, surgery, a hospital stay with early physiotherapy and a period of outpatient physio near the hospital. The NHS says full recovery can take several months or more. Your surgeon decides when you can fly and what you must do on the flight to lower the risk of clots.
Rehabilitation is where much of the work happens. Ask for a written exercise programme to continue at home and arrange a physiotherapist before you travel. Choose a hotel or apartment with a lift, a firm chair and a walk-in shower. An attendant helps with daily tasks while you use a walking aid. Request aisle seating and wheelchair help at airports.
What should I ask the hospital before booking?
- Do I need a total or a partial replacement, and why?
- Which implant do you plan to use and will I get its details in writing?
- Will I have a general or spinal anaesthetic?
- How many physiotherapy sessions are included and where will they happen?
- What clot-prevention plan will I follow, including for the flight home?
- Who do I contact if my wound or knee causes concern after I return?
Who decides
IndiaMedica does not give medical advice. Your treating specialist decides whether this procedure suits you, the treatment plan, how long you stay and when it is safe to fly.
Questions people ask
Can both knees be replaced in one trip?
Ask your surgeon whether replacing both knees on one trip is possible for you. The answer depends on your general health, the state of each knee and the surgeon’s judgement. If it is an option, ask how it would change your hospital stay, your rehabilitation and the help you need from an attendant.
Do I need physiotherapy at home?
Yes. Physiotherapy continues long after you leave hospital and is central to regaining movement. Bring your exercise programme and discharge summary to a physiotherapist at home. Book the first appointment before you fly to India so there is no gap.
Sources
General information, not medical or legal advice. Rules change: confirm with the official source. Your treating specialist decides on suitability, treatment and length of stay. How we write and check.