Frequently Asked Questions About Total Knee Replacement 

1. What is total knee replacement?

Total knee replacement, also called total knee arthroplasty (TKA), is a surgical procedure in which damaged surfaces of the knee joint are replaced with artificial components. It is commonly performed for patients with advanced knee arthritis who have persistent pain, stiffness and difficulty with walking or daily activities.

2. When is knee replacement surgery recommended?

Knee replacement may be recommended when severe knee arthritis causes persistent pain, stiffness, deformity or difficulty with walking and daily activities, particularly when appropriate non-surgical treatments no longer provide sufficient relief. The decision depends on your symptoms, examination, X-rays and overall health.

3. What conditions can require a total knee replacement?

Total knee replacement is most commonly performed for advanced osteoarthritis. It may also be considered for rheumatoid arthritis, severe post-traumatic arthritis and other conditions that cause significant damage, pain, stiffness or deformity of the knee.

4. How do I know if I need a knee replacement?

Not every patient with knee pain needs knee replacement. A detailed clinical examination, review of your symptoms and appropriate X-rays are usually required to determine the severity of joint damage. Knee replacement is generally considered when pain and functional limitations significantly affect your quality of life despite appropriate non-surgical treatment.

5. Who is a good candidate for total knee replacement?

A suitable candidate is usually a patient with significant knee joint damage and symptoms that interfere with everyday life. Age alone does not determine whether someone can have knee replacement. Your general health, activity level, knee condition and expectations are also considered before surgery.

6. How is total knee replacement performed?

During total knee replacement, the damaged surfaces of the knee joint are carefully removed and replaced with artificial components designed to restore the alignment and function of the knee. The procedure is performed under appropriate anaesthesia, and the surgical plan is individualized according to the patient's knee deformity, bone condition and overall health.

7. How long does total knee replacement surgery take?

The duration of surgery varies depending on the patient's condition and the complexity of the procedure. A routine primary total knee replacement generally takes around one to two hours, although complex cases may require more time.

8. When can I walk after knee replacement surgery?

Most patients are encouraged to begin standing and walking soon after surgery with appropriate assistance and rehabilitation. The exact timing depends on the patient's medical condition, surgical findings, pain control and overall recovery.

9. How long does recovery take after total knee replacement?

Recovery varies between patients. Many patients gradually return to their normal daily activities over several weeks, while strength, flexibility and confidence with walking can continue to improve for several months. Rehabilitation and regular exercises are important parts of recovery.

10. Will I need physiotherapy after knee replacement?

Yes. Rehabilitation and exercises are an important part of recovery after total knee replacement. Physiotherapy helps improve knee movement, muscle strength, walking ability and overall function. Your rehabilitation programme will be adjusted according to your individual progress.

11. Can a severely deformed knee be treated with knee replacement?

Yes. Total knee replacement can be used to treat some patients with severe knee deformity, including significant fixed flexion or angular deformities. Complex deformity requires careful pre-operative planning and an individualized surgical approach.

12. Can elderly patients undergo total knee replacement?

Age alone does not prevent a patient from having knee replacement surgery. Elderly patients can benefit significantly when severe knee arthritis is causing pain and loss of mobility. However, their general health and other medical conditions need to be carefully assessed before surgery.

13. How long does a knee replacement last?

Modern knee replacement implants are designed to provide long-term function. The longevity of an implant varies between patients and depends on factors such as activity level, weight, implant characteristics, bone quality and overall health. Regular follow-up can help monitor the condition of the knee replacement.

14. Can both knees be replaced?

Some patients may require replacement of both knees. Whether both knees should be treated during the same operation or in separate procedures depends on the patient's symptoms, general health, age, functional needs and surgical risk.

15. What happens before knee replacement surgery?

Before surgery, your medical history, medications and general health are reviewed. Your knee is examined and appropriate X-rays are assessed to understand the severity of arthritis and deformity. Medical conditions that may affect surgery or recovery are also evaluated and optimized where necessary.

16. What are the risks of total knee replacement?

As with any major surgery, knee replacement has potential risks, including infection, blood clots, bleeding, stiffness, persistent pain, implant-related problems and other medical or surgical complications. Your individual risks will be discussed during your pre-operative assessment.

17. Where can I consult Dr. Vikash Singh for knee replacement in Karachi?

Dr. Vikash Singh provides orthopaedic consultation in Karachi. Patients can visit the clinic at RIMS Trauma Hospital, PECHS Block 6, Karachi, during the scheduled consultation hours. For current clinic timings, directions and consultation information, please visit the Contact page or contact the clinic directly.

18. How can I contact Dr. Vikash Singh for a knee replacement consultation?

You can contact Dr. Vikash Singh's clinic by phone or WhatsApp for consultation information and directions. Patients may also visit the clinic during the scheduled consultation hours. A clinical examination and appropriate imaging are required before deciding whether total knee replacement is suitable for you.

All pictures and videos displayed on this website represent cases treated and operated by Dr Vikash Singh.

Website content is for educational purposes only.