Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disorder that affects the joints, including the knee joint. Knee replacement surgery is a treatment option for people with rheumatoid arthritis who experience severe knee pain and limited mobility due to the disease.
Knee replacement surgery is typically performed under general anaesthesia or spinal anaesthesia, depending on the patient’s health condition and preferences. The surgeon will make an incision over the knee joint and remove the damaged cartilage and bone. The surgeon will then insert the prosthetic implant, which is made of metal and plastic, into the knee joint. The implant is designed to mimic the natural shape and function of the knee joint. After placing the implant, the surgeon will close the incision using stitches or staples.
Patients typically stay in the hospital for 2–3 days after the surgery and receive pain management medications and physical therapy during this time. It may take several weeks or months to fully recover from knee replacement surgery, but most people experience significant improvement in their knee function and quality of life after the procedure.
Mrs. Nishi Khanna from Hyderabad underwent Knee Replacement for Complex Rheumatoid Arthritis, done by Dr. V. Ram Mohan Reddy, Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, Yashoda Hospitals.