Joint Replacement Surgery in Thane

1. Severe Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is one of the most common reasons for knee and hip replacement surgery.

It develops when the cartilage covering joint surfaces gradually wears away, leading to pain, stiffness, inflammation and restricted movement.

In advanced cases, patients may experience difficulty walking, standing, climbing stairs or completing daily activities.

2. Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory autoimmune condition that can damage multiple joints.

When joint destruction progresses despite appropriate medical management, replacement surgery may be considered to relieve pain and improve function.

3. Avascular Necrosis of the Hip

Avascular necrosis, also called osteonecrosis, occurs when the blood supply to part of a bone is disrupted.

In the hip, this can cause damage and eventual collapse of the femoral head.

Advanced avascular necrosis may require total hip replacement when joint preservation is no longer feasible.

4. Severe Joint Pain Affecting Daily Activities

Persistent pain that interferes with walking, sleeping, sitting or performing everyday tasks may indicate advanced joint deterioration.

Surgical evaluation may be appropriate when conservative treatments no longer provide satisfactory relief.

5. Joint Deformity or Instability

Advanced arthritis can alter the normal alignment and stability of joints.

Examples include bow-legged or knock-kneed knee deformities and certain hip abnormalities associated with degenerative joint disease.

Joint replacement may help restore appropriate alignment and improve stability in selected patients.

6. Joint Damage Following Injury

Previous fractures, ligament injuries or significant trauma can sometimes lead to long-term joint deterioration.

Certain severe hip fractures may also require joint replacement, depending on the patient's age, fracture characteristics and medical condition.

7. Reduced Joint Mobility and Stiffness

Advanced joint degeneration may cause severe stiffness, difficulty bending the knee, restricted hip movement and problems with routine activities.

Joint replacement may be considered when these limitations substantially affect quality of life.

1. Total Knee Replacement (TKR)

Total knee replacement is commonly performed for advanced knee arthritis affecting multiple joint compartments.

During surgery, damaged surfaces of the thigh bone and shin bone are resurfaced using artificial components.

The procedure aims to reduce chronic knee pain, improve alignment and restore functional movement.

Patients with severe knee osteoarthritis, progressive deformity and significant mobility limitations may be considered for total knee replacement.

2. Partial Knee Replacement (PKR)

Partial knee replacement involves replacing only the damaged compartment of the knee joint.

It may be appropriate for selected patients whose arthritis is limited to one area and whose remaining knee structures meet the necessary criteria.

Potential advantages include preservation of more natural joint structures and, in some cases, faster early recovery.

3. Total Hip Replacement (THR)

Total hip replacement is a surgical procedure in which the damaged femoral head and hip socket surfaces are replaced with artificial components.

It may be recommended for advanced hip osteoarthritis, avascular necrosis, selected hip fractures and other conditions causing severe joint damage.

The procedure aims to reduce hip pain, improve walking comfort and restore functional hip movement.

4. Hip Replacement via Direct Anterior Approach (DAA)

The Direct Anterior Approach is one surgical technique used to perform total hip replacement.

In this approach, the surgeon accesses the hip joint from the front, working between muscle groups rather than routinely detaching major muscles.

Potential advantages for selected patients may include reduced muscle disruption and improved early mobility.

However, DAA is not suitable for every patient, and long-term outcomes depend on many factors beyond the surgical approach.

The choice of approach depends on the surgeon's assessment, patient anatomy, implant requirements and surgical considerations.

5. Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement

Robotic-assisted knee replacement combines the surgeon's expertise with computer-assisted technology to support surgical planning and implant positioning.

Depending on the robotic platform, the system may provide detailed information about knee alignment, anatomy and bone preparation.

The surgeon remains in control throughout the procedure.

Robotic assistance may improve the precision of certain technical steps, although it has not consistently demonstrated superior long-term outcomes compared with well-performed conventional surgery.

6. Revision Joint Replacement Surgery

Revision joint replacement involves removing or replacing some or all components of a previously implanted artificial joint.

It may be required because of implant loosening, infection, instability, fracture, wear or other complications.

Revision surgery is generally more complex than primary joint replacement and requires detailed evaluation and specialised surgical planning.

Patients requiring revision procedures should discuss the availability of appropriate expertise and facilities with their treating orthopaedic specialist.

Significant Pain Relief

One of the main goals of joint replacement is to reduce persistent pain caused by severely damaged joint surfaces.

Many patients experience substantial improvement in arthritis-related discomfort following recovery.

Improved Mobility

Joint replacement can help patients walk more comfortably and perform everyday activities with fewer limitations.

Better Joint Stability and Alignment

Surgery may help restore joint alignment and improve stability, particularly when advanced arthritis has caused deformity.

Improved Quality of Life

Reduced pain and improved movement may make it easier to participate in family activities, household tasks and social routines.

Increased Functional Independence

Patients may regain the ability to perform certain daily activities with less assistance after successful surgery and rehabilitation.

Long-Term Improvement in Joint Function

Modern joint implants are designed to provide durable function over many years.

However, implant longevity and functional outcomes vary depending on patient characteristics, implant design, activity level and other clinical factors.

Step 1: Comprehensive Joint Evaluation

Dr. Girish Dhanawat evaluates the patient's symptoms, medical history, joint movement, alignment and functional limitations.

X-rays are commonly used to assess joint damage. Additional imaging or investigations may be required depending on the condition.

Step 2: Medical Fitness and Surgical Planning

Before surgery, patients undergo a medical assessment to identify any health conditions that may affect the procedure or recovery.

The evaluation may include blood tests, medication review, anaesthesia assessment and management of existing conditions such as diabetes or cardiovascular disease.

The surgeon determines the appropriate implant, surgical technique and treatment plan.

Step 3: Anaesthesia and Surgical Preparation

The procedure is performed under suitable anaesthesia selected by the anaesthesia team.

The surgical team prepares the affected joint and follows established infection-prevention and patient-safety protocols.

Step 4: Removal of Damaged Joint Surfaces

The surgeon carefully accesses the damaged joint and removes the affected cartilage and bone surfaces.

The extent of bone preparation depends on whether the procedure involves the knee or hip.

Step 5: Artificial Implant Placement

The selected artificial joint components are positioned and secured.

For knee replacement, the implant resurfaces the damaged joint surfaces.

For hip replacement, the damaged femoral head and socket surfaces are replaced with appropriate prosthetic components.

Step 6: Assessment of Joint Stability and Movement

The surgeon evaluates implant positioning, joint movement, alignment and stability.

Necessary adjustments are made before completing the procedure.

Step 7: Wound Closure and Recovery

The surgical incision is closed and covered with a sterile dressing.

The patient is monitored for pain control, circulation, recovery from anaesthesia and early postoperative complications.

Step 8: Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation usually begins early when medically appropriate.

Physiotherapy focuses on safe walking, muscle strengthening, restoring joint movement and helping patients gradually resume daily activities.

First 2 Weeks

The initial recovery period focuses on wound care, swelling management, medication adherence and physiotherapy.

Patients may require a walker, crutches or other walking aids.

Weeks 3–6

Walking confidence, muscle strength and movement often improve gradually.

Patients may begin resuming selected household activities, depending on recovery and medical advice.

Weeks 6–12

Many patients experience continued improvement in functional mobility and independence.

Rehabilitation may focus on walking endurance, balance, stair climbing and joint-specific strengthening exercises.

Long-Term Recovery

Further improvement in comfort, strength and movement can continue for several months.

Some patients require up to a year to achieve their more complete recovery, particularly after knee replacement or complex procedures.

Recovery should be guided by the treating surgeon and physiotherapist rather than a fixed timeline.

Type of Joint Replacement

Costs may differ between total knee replacement, partial knee replacement, total hip replacement and bilateral joint replacement.

Revision procedures may involve additional complexity and expenses.

Implant Selection

Different implant materials, designs and manufacturers may have different costs.

Surgical Approach and Technology

Conventional surgical procedures and robotic-assisted procedures may have different hospital and equipment charges.

Hospital Facilities

Hospital category, room selection, operating theatre charges and duration of stay influence the total treatment cost.

Medical Investigations

Preoperative blood tests, imaging, anaesthesia evaluation and management of existing medical conditions may contribute to expenses.

Surgeon and Anaesthesia Charges

Professional fees depend on the proposed procedure and treatment setting.

Postoperative Rehabilitation

Physiotherapy, medication, follow-up appointments and rehabilitation requirements may affect overall costs.

Insurance Coverage

Joint replacement may be covered under applicable health insurance policies, subject to coverage limits, waiting periods, exclusions and other policy conditions.

Orthopaedic and Joint Replacement Care

Dr. Girish Dhanawat, MBBS, D. Ortho., is an Orthopedic Surgeon and Joint Replacement Specialist in Thane who provides clinical evaluation and management of knee, hip and other orthopaedic conditions.

Personalised Treatment Recommendations

Every patient's joint damage, medical history, mobility needs and expectations are different.

Dr. Dhanawat evaluates these factors before recommending continued non-surgical treatment or an appropriate joint replacement procedure.

Knee and Hip Replacement Treatment Options

Patients can discuss treatment options for advanced knee and hip conditions, including total and partial knee replacement and total hip replacement.

Discussion of Modern Surgical Techniques

Depending on patient suitability and availability, treatment planning may include discussion of conventional, robotic-assisted and specific hip replacement approaches.

Clear Patient Communication

Patients receive guidance regarding their diagnosis, treatment alternatives, expected benefits, surgical risks and rehabilitation requirements.

Focus on Recovery and Long-Term Mobility

Postoperative guidance, physiotherapy and follow-up evaluations help patients work towards improved joint function and mobility.