Our Summary
This research paper studies the rates of total knee replacement (TKR) surgeries in a military healthcare institution in India over two six-year periods: 1997-2002 and 2007-2012. Knee replacement is a surgical procedure often used to treat serious knee problems, such as osteoarthritis. The study found a significant increase in the number of these surgeries from 37 in the first period to 800 in the second.
The data also showed that the average age of patients getting the surgery rose from about 63 to 66 years old. Officers and their dependents were more likely to get the surgery than other ranks, possibly due to greater awareness, education, and acceptance of the procedure. Women also had slightly more surgeries than men.
The big increase in knee replacements means that healthcare providers need to plan for the future by making sure they have enough resources and trained staff to handle the demand.
FAQs
- How many total knee replacement surgeries were performed in the studied military healthcare institution in India between 1997-2002 and 2007-2012?
- What was the average age of patients getting knee replacement surgery during these periods?
- Was there a difference in the likelihood of undergoing knee replacement surgery between different ranks within the military institution?
Doctor’s Tip
A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about knee replacement is to follow a comprehensive rehabilitation program after surgery to help strengthen the muscles around the knee, improve flexibility, and regain mobility. This can help ensure a successful recovery and long-term success of the knee replacement. Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight and staying active can also help prevent future knee problems and prolong the lifespan of the knee replacement.
Suitable For
Patients who are typically recommended for knee replacement surgery include those with severe knee pain and stiffness that limits their ability to perform daily activities, such as walking, climbing stairs, and getting in and out of chairs. These patients may also have tried other non-surgical treatments, such as physical therapy, medications, and injections, without success.
Patients with advanced osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or other degenerative joint diseases that cause significant damage to the knee joint may also be candidates for knee replacement surgery. Additionally, individuals with knee deformities, such as bowlegged or knock-kneed alignment, may benefit from the procedure to correct the alignment and improve joint function.
Overall, patients who are in good overall health, have realistic expectations for the surgery, and are willing to commit to post-operative rehabilitation are typically recommended for knee replacement surgery. It is important for patients to consult with their healthcare provider to determine if knee replacement is the best treatment option for their specific condition.
Timeline
Before knee replacement surgery, a patient typically experiences chronic knee pain, stiffness, swelling, and difficulty performing daily activities such as walking, climbing stairs, and getting in and out of chairs. They may have tried non-surgical treatments such as physical therapy, medications, injections, and lifestyle modifications without success.
After knee replacement surgery, a patient goes through a recovery process that involves physical therapy, pain management, and gradually increasing activity levels. They may initially experience pain, swelling, and stiffness in the surgical knee, but over time, they should see improvements in their mobility, range of motion, and overall quality of life. It can take several months to fully recover from knee replacement surgery and regain strength and function in the affected knee.
What to Ask Your Doctor
- What are the potential risks and complications associated with knee replacement surgery?
- How long is the recovery process after knee replacement surgery?
- What type of physical therapy or rehabilitation will be necessary after the surgery?
- How long can I expect the knee replacement to last?
- Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that could be considered before opting for knee replacement surgery?
- Will I be able to resume my normal activities, such as exercising or playing sports, after the surgery?
- How should I prepare for the surgery, both physically and mentally?
- What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery?
- Will I need to make any modifications to my home or daily routine after the surgery?
- How often will follow-up appointments be necessary after the surgery?
Reference
Authors: Kumar N, Gupta B, Singh SK. Journal: Eur J Orthop Surg Traumatol. 2015 Oct;25(7):1177-80. doi: 10.1007/s00590-015-1675-5. Epub 2015 Aug 4. PMID: 26239032