Dr. KMK Varma is leading and well-known Orthopedic and Joint Replacement Surgeon in India and consultant with vast experience of 45 years in this field. His specialization lies in the area of arthroscopic procedure, hip replacement, knee replacement, arthritis, fracture treatment, ligament reconstruction, and many other related treatments. He is currently located at Manipal Hospital, Old Airport Road, Bangalore.
He completed MBBS from Government Medical College, Mysore in 1969 followed by MS from Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute, Banglore in 1975, and FRCS from Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, the UK in 1983. He has organized and successfully conducted several National and International conferences on Hip Replacement, Knee Replacement, and Trauma Surgeries. He is an active member of the Karnataka Medical Council.
Know Total Knee Replacement
Patients suffering from severe injury in the knee joint associated with severe pain and impaired function should consult an Orthopedic surgeon, these patients might require Total Knee Replacement surgery. Osteoarthritis is the most common reason for knee replacement among patients. Orthopedic Surgeons identify the risks of total knee replacement surgery before operating. Physical Therapy is crucial for rehabilitation post Total Knee Replacement Surgery.
Patients whose knee joints have been damaged by either progressive arthritis, trauma, or other reasons may require Total Knee Replacement Surgery. Discomfort and injury in the knee cause pain and stiffness also decrease body movement. Patients must consult experienced Orthopedic surgeons like Dr. KMK Varma to choose Total Knee Replacement Surgery as this surgery has some risks associated with it.
How Knee Replacement Surgery Conducted
The orthopedic Surgeon identifies the need for the surgery after examination of total risk and knee condition. During the Total Knee Replacement Surgery, the surgeon replaces the damaged portions of the knee with plastic and metal parts. In this procedure, the knee is replaced with an artificial joint. It requires Hospitalization and complete rest for a few weeks.
Risks Associated with Total Knee Replacement Surgery
Some patients may have blood clots in the legs which can travel to the lungs. It is called pulmonary embolism. Pulmonary Embolism can cause shortness of breath, chest pain and even increases the risk of shock.
- Urinary Tract Infection may also develop post Total Knee Surgery in some cases.
- Conditions of Nausea and Vomiting may also appear in some patients.
- Chronic knee pain and stiffness may also develop for a short time.
- Bleeding into the knee Joint.
- Some patients might suffer nerve damage, it depends from case to case.
- Blood vessel injury
- Infection in the knee
Recovery from Total Knee Replacement Surgery
Total Knee Replacement Surgery takes 2-3 hours for operative time. Post-surgery all the vital organs have been examined and monitored.
Physical Therapy plays a crucial role in rehabilitation and building the muscles. Usually, after 48 hours post the Total Knee Replacement Surgery Physical Therapy is stated and it requires complete participation of the patient for best results. Patients may feel discomfort, stiffness, and pain in the early days of Physical Therapy But it will get better after continuous practice. Knee immobilizers are used to stabilize the knee for Physical Therapy, and other physical activities like sleeping and waking.
A CPM machine is a device that helps in speeding up the recovery process. It is also known as a continuous passive motion machine. It is attached to the operative knee, then it continuously moves the knee at various degrees for hours while the patient rests. It improves circulation and reduces the risk of scarring and contracture of the tissue.
Several exercises are recommended by the orthopedic surgeon which improves the body strength of the calf muscle and thigh.
Several sports can be played post Total Knee Replacement Surgery after recovery which improves the knee strength and flexibility in muscles. Swimming is the ideal exercise; it enhances muscle strength and endurance and does not pose any stress and pressure on the replaced joint. Running and sports that involve extensive knee activity must be avoided to minimize the risk of another injury in a replaced knee.
Dr. KMK Varma is India’s most trusted and reliable Orthopedic Surgeon in Bangalore. He has treated thousands of patients and improved the lives of a large number of patients. His dedication and experience helped the patients to make the right decision. He practices at Manipal Hospital, Bangalore which is one the best hospitals in India.