Category Archives: Health care

Knee pain can restrict you from doing anything, affect your lifestyle, and turn day-to-day activities into a chore. For individuals with advanced arthritis or extensive knee injury, knee replacement surgery can be life-altering. So what does occur in this surgery, and how do you prepare for a successful recovery?

This website offers a concise and informative overview of what to anticipate from knee replacement surgery—pre, during, and post. We’ll also offer tips in rehabilitation to facilitate healing well and getting back to your routine.

What Happens During Knee Replacement Surgery?

Knee replacement surgery, also called knee arthroplasty, is a carefully planned procedure designed to relieve chronic knee pain and restore joint function—especially in patients suffering from osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or severe knee injury. Understanding what actually happens during the surgery can ease anxiety and help patients feel more prepared for the journey ahead.

Pre-Surgery Preparation

Before surgery, patients undergo:

• Preoperative evaluation: Includes blood tests, imaging (X-ray/MRI), and physical assessments.

• Anesthesia consultation: Most patients receive spinal or general anesthesia, depending on health and comfort.

• Fasting & medication adjustments: Patients are usually asked to fast for 6–8 hours and may be advised to stop certain medications temporarily.

Step-by-Step Surgical Procedure

1. Incision:
   A small incision (6 to 10 inches) is made over the knee to expose the damaged joint.

2. Removal of Damaged Bone & Cartilage:
   Surgeons trim away the worn-out cartilage and bone at the ends of the femur (thigh bone) and tibia (shin bone) using precision tools.

3. Implant Placement:
   Custom-fit metal components are attached to the prepared bone surfaces. A plastic spacer is inserted between these metal parts to ensure smooth movement.

4. Patella Resurfacing (Optional):
   In some cases, the kneecap (patella) is also resurfaced with a plastic component for enhanced joint mobility.

5. Closure:
   The incision is stitched or stapled closed, and the knee is bandaged and braced.

6. Duration:
   Most knee replacement surgeries take 1 to 2 hours.

Types of Knee Replacement Surgery

• Total Knee Replacement (TKR):

  The most common, in which both surfaces of the knee joint are replaced.

• Partial Knee Replacement (PKR):

  The affected portion of the knee is replaced and a greater part of the natural joint is left intact.

• Revision Knee Replacement:

  A reoperation to replace or correct a previously placed old prosthesis.

Possible Risks and Complications

While the surgery is safe and widely performed, potential risks include:

• Infection

• Blood clots

• Nerve damage

• Implant loosening or wear

• Stiffness in the knee

Orthopedic doctors at Care and Cure Hospital with expertise in the specialty guide patients through personalized treatment plans for each of the above procedures.

Who Could be a Candidate for Knee Replacement Surgery?

Knee replacement is most often suggested to patients with:

• Chronic pain of the knee that won’t improve with non-surgical treatment
• Limited mobility that impacts daily activity
• Severe osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis
• Abnormalities of the knee

An orthopedic evaluation—comprising imaging studies and physical exams—assists in deciding whether you are a good surgical candidate.

Preparation Before Knee Replacement Surgery

Preparation beforehand might make your surgery and recovery less complicated. The following are things to consider:

Preoperative Steps

• Medical Evaluations: Your doctor may require lab work, X-rays, and ECGs.
• Prehabilitation: Stronger, more efficient muscle conditioning exercises to get your body ready.
• Medication Review: Tell your physician about all medication and supplements.
• Home Preparation: Create a quiet recovery space at home with items in easy reach.

You can find additional information about joint and orthopedic care on our hospital’s main services page.

What to Expect During Surgery

Knee replacement surgery usually is done under general or spinal anesthesia and lasts about 1 to 2 hours. The following is a step-by-step breakdown:

1. Anesthesia is given.
2. The surgeon incises through muscle and tissue over the knee.
3. Cartilage and bone damage is removed.
4. Artificial implants are inserted and secured.
5. The wound is closed and the knee is wrapped.

Fine prosthetics and current methods performed at Care and Cure Hospital minimize complications and enhance outcomes of surgery.

Tips for Recovery after Knee Replacement Surgery

Knee replacement recovery requires time, but judicious adherence to good practice facilitates speedy recovery and mobilization.

1. Pain Management

Adhere to prescribed pain medication

Use ice packs to reduce swelling

Relax and breathe deeply to alleviate discomfort

2. Physical Therapy

Start exercising as recommended, usually within 24 hours post-surgery

Follow a customized rehabilitation regimen

Incrementally raise activity level

3. Wound Care

Keep incision clean and dry

Monitor for infection (redness, discharge, fever)

Avoid immersing the wound in water

4. Nutrition and Fluid

Consume a well-balanced diet full of protein, vitamins, and mineral

Consume plenty of water to enable tissues to heal

5. Home Modifications for Safety

Install handrails and grab bars in bathrooms

Use walker or cane to help you

Stay away from stairs, if possible, for first few weeks

For individual post-operative care, do not delay in reaching our care team.

Recovery Timeline: Week-by-Week

🔹 Day 1 to Week 1 – Hospital Stay & Early Mobilization

• Patients are encouraged to begin moving the knee within 24 hours after surgery.

• Physical therapy starts early, focusing on gentle movements to improve range of motion.

• Most patients are discharged within 3 to 5 days, depending on health and mobility progress.

• Use of walker or crutches is common during this period.

🔹 Weeks 2 to 4 – At-Home Recovery

• Continue daily exercises as prescribed by the physiotherapist.

• Pain and swelling are managed with medications, icing, and elevation.

• Stitches or staples (if used) are usually removed around day 14.

• Gradual transition to walking without aids, based on strength and balance.

🔹 Weeks 5 to 8 – Strength & Mobility Building

• Physical therapy intensifies with focus on muscle strengthening and bending the knee up to 90–120 degrees.

• Driving may be resumed (typically after 6 weeks) if the patient is off pain medications and can control the leg well.

🔹 Weeks 9 to 12 – Return to Normal Activities

• Most patients resume daily tasks like climbing stairs, shopping, or desk work.

• Swelling reduces significantly, and knee function continues to improve.

🔹 After 3 Months – Long-Term Recovery

• Walking long distances and low-impact activities (like swimming, cycling, yoga) become easier.

• Full recovery may take up to 6–12 months depending on age, fitness level, and commitment to rehab.

Possible Hazards and How to Avoid Them

Generally safe, knee replacement surgery does carry some risks:

• Blood clots
• Infection
• Trouble with the implant or dislocation
• Nerve or blood vessel damage

Reducing Risk

• Follow pre- and post-op orders to the very letter
• Move around (as recommended) to prevent clots
• Report symptoms that don’t feel right as soon as possible

Care Guidelines for Better Recovery

1. Follow Your Physiotherapy Plan:
Regular physiotherapy sessions and at-home exercises are the cornerstone of successful recovery.

2. Take Medications as Prescribed:
Pain relief, anti-inflammatory drugs, and antibiotics (if prescribed) should be taken on time to prevent infection and reduce discomfort.

3. Keep the Wound Clean and Dry:
Proper wound care is essential to avoid infections. Watch for redness, oozing, or unusual pain around the incision.

4. Use Ice and Elevation:
Apply ice packs for 15–20 minutes several times a day and elevate your leg to control swelling.

5. Eat a Nutritious Diet:
A balanced diet rich in protein, calcium, iron, and fiber supports faster healing and strengthens bones.

6. Avoid High-Impact Activities:
Activities like running, jumping, or twisting motions should be avoided permanently to protect the implant.

7. Monitor for Warning Signs:
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Fever

• Chest pain or shortness of breath

• Swelling in the calf

• Persistent bleeding from the wound

Discover more about care in-depth at Care and Cure Hospital, as well as how our surgical teams assist in reducing post-operative complications.

Conclusion: Towards Pain-Free Life

Replacement of the knee will most likely enhance the well-being of patients with chronic joint pain. With current surgical methods and well-planned rehabilitation, the majority of patients can expect to go back to active, pain-free existence.

If you’re considering knee replacement or have questions about recovery, our team at Care and Cure Hospital is here to help. Get in touch today to take the first step toward healing and mobility.

FAQs

1. What is knee replacement surgery?
   

   Knee replacement surgery, also called knee arthroplasty, is a procedure where damaged or worn-out parts of the knee joint are removed and replaced with artificial implants. It helps relieve pain, improve mobility, and restore daily activity in people with severe arthritis or injury.

2. When should someone consider knee replacement?
   

   If knee pain is constant, affects sleep, limits walking, or doesn’t get better with medicine or therapy — surgery might be needed. People with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or old injuries often benefit the most. It’s about improving quality of life.

3. Is knee replacement surgery safe?
   

   Yes, it’s a common and safe procedure when done by experienced surgeons. At Care and Cure, we use advanced tools and techniques, like minimally invasive surgery and computer navigation, to make recovery smoother and reduce risks like infections or stiffness.

4. How long does it take to recover from knee replacement?
   

   Most patients can walk with help in 1–2 days and go home within 3–5 days. Full recovery takes 6–12 weeks, depending on your age, fitness, and therapy. Doing physiotherapy daily is key for regaining strength and full motion.

5. What can I do to recover faster after knee replacement?
   

   Follow your physiotherapy plan strictly, keep moving (even slowly), and maintain a healthy diet. Avoid sitting too long, and use support devices (walker/stick) as advised. Don’t skip follow-ups with your doctor. Staying active is the best way to heal quickly.

Kidney stone are painful and disruptive, but the good news is that treatment has come much further. If you or a family member has been diagnosed with kidney stones, it’s crucial to know what treatments are out there. This blog talks about non-surgical and surgical treatments for kidney stones so you can make informed decisions about treatment and recovery.

Understanding Kidney Stones

Kidney stones are solid deposits of mineral and salt in the kidneys. They are various sizes and travel through the urinary tract, which is extremely painful.

Common Symptoms:

• Sharp pain in the back or lower abdomen
• Hurtful urination
• Cauterization of the urine
• Nausea and vomiting
• Urinating excessively

Learn more about urological disorders and treatments on our Urology Services page.

What Causes Kidney Stones

Several reasons can cause the development of kidney stones, including:

• Dehydration
• Ingestion of too much protein, sodium, or sugar
• Obesity
• Gastrointestinal disease or surgery
• Certain supplements or medication

Non-Surgical Treatments for Kidney Stones

Small stones are usually treated with non-surgical treatment that will pass independently or with the assistance of medication.

1. Increased Fluid Intake

Drinking a lot of water is the simplest and most effective treatment. Drinking a lot of water will naturally pass out the stones.

2. Pain Control

Over-the-counter or prescription pain medicines can be used to treat the discomfort as the stone passes.

3. Medical Expulsive Therapy (MET)

Physicians prescribe alpha-blockers, which can relax the muscles in your ureter, enabling stones to pass more easily.

4. Dietary Changes

Reducing salt intake, limiting animal proteins, and excluding foods high in oxalate prevents additional stone growth.

5. Observation and Monitoring

In case the stone is small and is not complicating, physicians may advise a wait-and-see plan.

Benefits of Non-Surgical Intervention:

• Less invasive
• Low cost
• Shorter recovery duration

However, not all stones can be treated non-surgically. That’s when surgery is indicated.

Surgical Treatment of Kidney Stones

When kidney stones are too large, cause blockage, or become infected, surgery is indicated.

1. Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL)

A non-surgical procedure that uses the shock sound waves to break stones into tiny pieces which are eliminated through urine.

Pros:

• No cut is required
• Outpatient surgery

Cons:

• Will require more than one session
• Not suitable for all stone sizes and locations

2. Ureteroscopy

The stone is disintegrated or removed with a laser after passing a small scope through the bladder and urethra.

Pros:

• Suitable for mid to lower ureteral stones
• Fast recovery

Cons:

• Requires anesthesia
• Possible stent insertion

3. Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL)

For extremely big or complex stones, a small cut is created in the back to directly take out the stone from the kidney.

Pros:

Very good at removing large stones

Cons:

• Surgical
• Hospital stay

Visit our Urology Department to learn about which procedures we offer and what might work best for you.

Choosing the Best Treatment Option

The best treatment depends on several factors:

• Stone size and position:

  Small stones may pass by themselves, but bigger ones may need surgery.

• Infection:

  Infections make non-surgical treatment potentially unsafe.

• General health:

  Individuals who have other diseases may be unable to manage certain procedures.

Recovery and Aftercare

Regardless of the form of treatment employed, follow-up care is important to avoid recurrence.

Hints for a Smooth Recovery:

1. Stay Hydrated: Drink minimum 2-3 liters of water daily.
2. Follow Prescribed Diet: Your doctor might suggest avoiding salt and protein intake.
3. Follow Medication as Directed: Painkillers, antibiotics, or medications to prevent stone formation.
4. Watch for Complications: Let your doctor know if you experience fever, severe pain, or difficulty urinating.

Need to make a follow-up or visit a urologist? Visit our Contact Page.

Preventing Kidney Stones

Once you have had a kidney stone, you are at increased risk of developing another. But there are steps you can take to prevent them:

• Drink More Fluids: Water will thin out substances that will prevent stones from forming.
• Adjust Your Diet: Cut down on sodium, animal protein, and oxalate foods like spinach and nuts.
• Watch Calcium Use: Don’t overdo it, but don’t exclude it either.
• Healthy Weight: Obesity is a risk factor for kidney stones.
• Regular Checkups: Regular checkups can detect stones early before they become symptomatic.

Learn more preventive care tips at Care and Cure Hospital.

Conclusion: Informed Decision Making

Kidney stones are a common but treatable illness. Knowing the choices of non-surgical and surgical options places you in control to make the most informed decisions possible based on your personal health needs. From diet change to cutting-edge surgery, many options are available.

With a diagnosis of kidney stones, don’t wait. Turn to the experienced urology team at Care and Cure Hospital for expert guidance and treatment personally tailored for you.

Step into relief – Call us today.

FAQs

1. What are the non-surgical treatments for kidney stones?
   

   Small stones (usually under 5 mm) can often pass naturally with enough water, rest, and medication. Doctors may give painkillers, alpha-blockers, or diuretics to help the stone move out faster. This is called medical expulsive therapy and works best for small, uncomplicated stones.

2. When does a kidney stone need surgery?
   

   Surgery may be needed if the stone is:

• Too large to pass (over 6 mm)
• Causing severe pain or infection
• Blocking urine flow
• Not passing after 3–4 weeks
  In such cases, surgical options like laser treatment or shockwave therapy are recommended.

3. What are the main surgical options for kidney stones?
   

   There are three common methods:

1. ESWL (Shockwave Therapy): Non-invasive; uses sound waves to break stones.
2. URS (Ureteroscopy with laser): A thin tube is used to find and break stones with a laser.
3. PCNL (Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy): For large stones; involves a small incision in the back.

4. Is surgery for kidney stones painful?
   

   Modern surgical treatments are mostly minimally invasive and done under anesthesia. Patients feel little to no pain during surgery. Recovery is usually fast — you may go home the same or next day. Pain after the procedure is manageable with medicine.

5. How do I know which treatment is right for me?
   

   Your doctor will suggest treatment based on:

• Stone size and location
• Your pain level
• Urinary blockage
• Infection risk
  In general, small stones = non-surgical; larger or stubborn stones = surgical. Imaging tests like ultrasound or CT scans help make the best decision.