Knee Replacement Surgery in Thane

1. Advanced Knee Osteoarthritis

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

It occurs when the cartilage protecting the knee joint gradually deteriorates, resulting in pain, stiffness, swelling and reduced movement.

Patients with advanced osteoarthritis may experience discomfort even during short walks or routine household activities.

2. Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune inflammatory condition that can progressively damage the knee joint.

When inflammation causes severe joint destruction and medical treatment no longer provides sufficient symptom control, knee replacement may be considered.

3. Severe Knee Pain Affecting Daily Activities

Persistent knee pain that makes walking, climbing stairs, getting dressed or sleeping difficult may indicate the need for further orthopaedic evaluation.

Surgery may become an option when appropriate conservative treatments have failed to provide adequate relief.

4. Bow-Legged or Knock-Kneed Deformity

Advanced arthritis can alter the normal alignment of the knee, resulting in bow-legged or knock-kneed deformities.

Knee replacement surgery may help improve joint alignment, stability and function.

5. Severe Knee Stiffness and Limited Mobility

Patients who struggle to bend or straighten their knees because of advanced joint degeneration may benefit from surgical assessment.

6. Post-Traumatic Knee Arthritis

Previous fractures, ligament injuries or significant knee trauma can sometimes lead to early joint degeneration.

When damage becomes advanced and symptoms substantially affect everyday life, knee replacement may be considered.

1. Total Knee Replacement (TKR)

Total knee replacement is a commonly performed procedure for advanced arthritis affecting multiple areas of the knee joint.

During surgery, damaged surfaces of the thigh bone and shin bone are resurfaced and replaced with artificial components. The kneecap surface may also be resurfaced when appropriate.

Total knee replacement may be recommended when arthritis affects more than one compartment of the knee and causes substantial pain and mobility limitations.

2. Partial Knee Replacement (PKR)

Partial knee replacement, also known as unicompartmental knee replacement, involves replacing only the damaged compartment of the knee.

This procedure may be suitable for selected patients whose arthritis is limited to one part of the joint and whose remaining joint structures meet the necessary criteria.

Potential advantages for appropriately selected patients include preservation of more natural knee structures and, in some cases, a faster early recovery.

However, not everyone is suitable for partial knee replacement.

3. Bilateral Knee Replacement

Bilateral knee replacement involves replacing both knee joints.

Depending on the patient's overall health, arthritis severity and surgical risk, the procedures may be performed:

Simultaneously: Both knees are replaced during one surgical session.

In stages: Each knee is replaced during a separate operation.

The safest approach depends on individual medical circumstances.

4. Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement

Robotic-assisted knee replacement computer-based technology to support surgical planning, bone preparation and implant positioning.

The surgeon remains responsible for controlling the operation and making clinical decisions.

Robotic assistance may improve the precision of certain surgical steps, although superior long-term outcomes compared with well-performed conventional knee replacement have not been consistently established.

Significant Reduction in Knee Pain

One of the primary objectives of knee replacement is to reduce chronic arthritis-related pain that has not responded adequately to conservative treatment.

Improved Walking Ability

After recovery and rehabilitation, many patients experience improved walking comfort and are able to perform daily activities with less difficulty.

Better Knee Alignment

Knee replacement can help correct certain deformities associated with advanced arthritis, improving the mechanical alignment of the joint.

Improved Joint Movement and Stability

The procedure aims to restore functional knee movement and provide a stable joint for routine activities.

Greater Independence

Reduced pain and improved mobility can make everyday activities such as shopping, household work and climbing stairs more manageable.

Long-Term Symptom Relief

Modern knee implants can provide long-lasting relief for many patients. Implant longevity varies according to patient factors, implant characteristics, activity level and surgical considerations.

Step 1: Detailed Knee Evaluation

Dr. Girish Dhanawat assesses the patient's symptoms, medical history, walking pattern, knee mobility and joint alignment.

Weight-bearing X-rays are commonly used to evaluate the severity and distribution of arthritis. Additional investigations may be recommended when clinically necessary.

Step 2: Preoperative Assessment and Planning

Before surgery, the patient undergoes a medical evaluation to assess fitness for the procedure.

This may include blood investigations, assessment of existing medical conditions, medication review and anaesthesia evaluation.

The surgeon selects the appropriate knee replacement procedure and plans the implant positioning based on the patient's anatomy and clinical requirements.

Step 3: Anaesthesia and Surgical Preparation

Knee replacement surgery is performed under suitable anaesthesia, which may include spinal or general anaesthesia depending on the patient's condition and the anaesthesia team's assessment.

The surgical team follows established infection-prevention and safety protocols.

Step 4: Removal of Damaged Joint Surfaces

The surgeon makes an incision to access the knee joint.

Damaged cartilage and small portions of underlying bone are carefully removed from the affected joint surfaces.

The bone is prepared to accommodate the selected knee replacement components.

Step 5: Placement of Artificial Knee Implants

The artificial components are positioned on the prepared joint surfaces.

A specialised plastic insert is generally placed between the metal components to allow smooth movement.

The surgeon evaluates alignment, stability and the knee's range of motion before completing the procedure.

Step 6: Wound Closure and Postoperative Care

After checking the joint's movement and stability, the surgical incision is closed and covered with a dressing.

The patient is monitored following surgery, with attention to pain control, circulation and early recovery.

Step 7: Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation usually begins soon after surgery, depending on medical fitness and the treating team's instructions.

Physiotherapy focuses on restoring knee movement, improving muscle strength, supporting safe walking and gradually increasing functional independence.

First 24–48 Hours

Many patients begin standing and walking with assistance within the first day after surgery, when medically appropriate.

Early recovery focuses on pain management, circulation exercises, safe movement and prevention of complications.

A walker or other walking aid may be recommended.

First 2 Weeks

During the initial recovery period, patients focus on wound care, controlling swelling, following prescribed medication instructions and participating in physiotherapy.

Exercises are designed to improve knee bending, straightening and muscle activation.

Weeks 3–6

Patients often gradually increase walking distance and participation in daily activities.

Physiotherapy continues to focus on knee flexibility, strength, gait and balance.

Some patients may transition away from walking aids as their confidence and stability improve.

Weeks 6–12

Many patients notice significant progress in mobility and functional independence during this stage.

Activities such as walking outdoors, climbing stairs and returning to selected daily routines may become easier.

Long-Term Recovery

Muscle strength, endurance and knee comfort can continue improving for several months after surgery.

Some patients may take up to a year to achieve their more complete functional recovery.

Following the recommended rehabilitation plan and attending follow-up appointments are important parts of recovery.

Type of Knee Replacement

The cost may differ between partial knee replacement, total knee replacement and bilateral knee replacement.

Implant Selection

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

Surgical Technology

Robotic-assisted surgery may involve additional technology-related charges compared with conventional knee replacement.

Hospital and Surgical Charges

Hospital facilities, operating theatre charges, surgeon fees, anaesthesia charges and room selection can influence the final cost.

Medical Investigations and Hospital Stay

Preoperative investigations, existing medical conditions, duration of hospitalisation and medication requirements may affect treatment expenses.

Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation

Postoperative rehabilitation, follow-up consultations and additional support services may contribute to the overall cost.

Insurance Coverage

Health insurance coverage depends on the patient's policy, eligibility, waiting periods, exclusions and applicable conditions.

Orthopaedic and Joint Replacement Care

Dr. Girish Dhanawat, MBBS, D. Ortho., is an Orthopedic Surgeon and Joint Replacement Specialist in Thane who provides evaluation and treatment for knee arthritis, hip conditions and other orthopaedic problems.

Personalised Treatment Planning

Every patient's joint condition, mobility limitations, general health and treatment goals are different.

Dr. Dhanawat evaluates these factors before recommending non-surgical treatment, partial knee replacement or total knee replacement.

Conventional and Robotic Surgical Options

Patients can discuss conventional and robotic-assisted knee replacement approaches based on their individual requirements and the technology available at the treating hospital.

Patient-Centred Approach

The consultation process focuses on helping patients understand their diagnosis, available treatment choices, expected benefits, potential surgical risks and rehabilitation requirements.

Focus on Rehabilitation and Recovery

Successful knee replacement care extends beyond the surgical procedure.

Postoperative guidance, physiotherapy and regular follow-up assessments are important for restoring mobility and supporting long-term joint function.