When the pain from knee arthritis becomes unbearable and limits your daily life, knee replacement surgery can be a life-changing solution. Chandigarh, with its advanced medical infrastructure and renowned specialists, has emerged as a top destination for this procedure. This ultimate guide will walk you through everything you need to know about knee replacement surgery in Chandigarh, from finding the best surgeons to understanding the costs and recovery process.
Types of Knee Replacement Surgery
Before you choose a hospital or a surgeon, it’s essential to understand the different types of knee replacement surgery available:
- Total Knee Replacement (TKR): This is the most common type of knee surgery. The surgeon replaces the entire surface of the thigh bone (femur) and shin bone (tibia) with a prosthetic implant. TKR is recommended when all three compartments of the knee are damaged.
- Partial Knee Replacement (PKR): Also known as unicompartmental knee replacement, this procedure is suitable for patients with arthritis in only one compartment of the knee. It is less invasive than TKR, preserves more of the natural knee, and often leads to a faster recovery.
- Minimally Invasive Knee Replacement: This technique uses a smaller incision, which can result in less pain, reduced blood loss, and a shorter hospital stay.
- Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement: This advanced technology uses a robotic arm to assist the surgeon, providing a high degree of precision in implant placement. This can lead to superior alignment, a more natural feel, and potentially longer-lasting results. Many top hospitals in Chandigarh now offer this option.
How to Find a Top-Rated Knee Replacement Surgeon in Chandigarh
The success of your surgery depends heavily on the surgeon’s skill and experience. Here’s how to find the best orthopedic surgeon in Chandigarh:
- Look for Experience and Specialization: Seek a surgeon who specializes in joint replacement and has a high volume of successful knee replacement surgeries. Doctors like Dr. Gagandeep Singh Sachdeva and Dr. Manuj Wadhwa are highly regarded in the region for their extensive experience and use of advanced techniques, including robotic surgery.
- Evaluate Hospital Affiliation: Top surgeons are usually associated with leading hospitals. These hospitals, such as Fortis Hospital Mohali, Max Hospital, and Sohana Hospital, are equipped with state-of-the-art operation theaters, advanced diagnostic tools, and comprehensive rehabilitation programs.
- Read Patient Reviews and Testimonials: Patient stories on platforms like Practo and Justdial can provide valuable insights into a surgeon’s bedside manner, communication skills, and the overall patient experience. Look for feedback on successful outcomes and post-operative care.
Understanding the Cost of Knee Replacement Surgery
The cost of knee replacement surgery in Chandigarh is a significant factor. While it’s more affordable than in many Western countries, it can vary based on several factors:
- Type of Implant: The cost can differ based on the implant material (e.g., metal, ceramic) and the brand.
- Type of Surgery: Robotic-assisted and minimally invasive surgeries may have a higher cost than traditional procedures due to the technology involved.
- Hospital Choice: The cost at a top-tier private hospital will be higher than at a mid-range facility.
- Surgeon’s Fees: Highly experienced and renowned surgeons will have higher consultation and surgical fees.
- Pre- and Post-operative Care: The total cost includes expenses for pre-operative tests, hospital stay, medications, and post-operative physiotherapy.
The average cost of a total knee replacement in Chandigarh can range from ₹1,75,000 to ₹6,90,000, so it is important to get a detailed cost estimate from the hospital.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Knee replacement surgery is just the first step; proper recovery is key to a successful outcome.
- Hospital Stay: Patients typically stay in the hospital for 2-4 days after the surgery. You will be encouraged to stand and walk with assistance on the very first day.
- Physiotherapy: This is the most critical part of the recovery. You will begin physical therapy in the hospital and continue at home or at an outpatient clinic for several weeks. Consistent physiotherapy helps restore mobility, strengthen muscles, and improve the range of motion.
- Recovery Timeline: While you can resume most light daily activities within a few weeks, a full recovery can take up to a year. Patience and adherence to your doctor’s instructions are essential. Most patients regain significant function and can return to activities like walking and light exercise within 3 to 6 months.
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