Total Knee Replacement in Bangalore
Don’t let knee pain hold you back. Regain your mobility and live pain-free with advanced knee replacement surgery by Dr. Naveen Kumar L.V. in Bangalore’s Sports Orthopedics Institute. Our compassionate team is here to guide you from initial consultation to full recovery.
Book an Appointment to take the first step towards pain-free knees.
Introduction: Knee Replacement and Who Needs It
If you’re in Bangalore (Koramangala, BTM Layout, HSR Layout, Bellandur, Sarjapur Road, Electronic City, Marathahalli, or Indiranagar) and suffering from severe knee pain or arthritis, know that help is available. Total knee replacement – also known as knee arthroplasty or arthritis knee surgery – is a procedure to replace a damaged knee joint with an artificial joint made of metal and high-grade plastic. This new knee joint takes over the work of your worn-out cartilage and bone, allowing smooth, pain-free movement. Knee replacement is one of the most successful surgeries in modern medicine, providing significant pain relief and improved mobility for most patients. It’s considered a safe procedure with a very low complication rate (serious issues occur in fewer than 2% of patients), and over 90% of modern knee implants still work well 15+ years after surgery.
Who might need a knee replacement?
Knee replacement is typically recommended for people with advanced knee arthritis or serious joint damage. If you have osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis causing constant knee pain, stiffness, and difficulty with everyday activities, you might be a candidate for this surgery. Common reasons to consider knee replacement include:
- Severe arthritis pain: Osteoarthritis (age-related wear and tear) or rheumatoid arthritis (inflammatory) can lead to bone-on-bone contact in the knee, causing intense pain and deformity. When pain persists despite medications, physiotherapy, and injections, knee arthritis surgery (replacement) may be the best solution.
- Limited mobility: Difficulty in walking, climbing stairs, or getting up from chairs due to knee pain or stiffness. You may find you’re avoiding activities you enjoy because your knee just won’t cooperate.
- Night pain or rest pain: Pain that keeps you awake at night or aches even when you’re not moving is a red flag. It means the joint damage is quite severe.
- Bent or deformed knee joint: Long-standing arthritis can cause the knee to bow inward or outward. Total knee replacement can straighten the leg and correct these deformities, improving your gait.
- Previous injuries or others: Sometimes old fractures or ligament injuries lead to post-traumatic arthritis. If your knee was damaged in the past and now you have chronic pain and instability, replacement might be recommended. Also, conditions like avascular necrosis or infections that destroy the joint can necessitate a new joint.
In short, anyone with chronic knee pain and disability that is not improved by conservative treatments should consult a knee specialist. Our knee pain specialist (Dr. Naveen) will evaluate your condition through X-rays, physical exam, and history. We always exhaust simpler options (medications, bracing, injections) before suggesting surgery. If non-surgical measures aren’t giving relief and your quality of life is suffering, it might be time to consider a total knee replacement to get you back to an active, pain-free life.
Why Choose Dr. Naveen for Knee Replacement in Bangalore?
Choosing the right surgeon is crucial for a successful knee replacement. Dr. Naveen Kumar L.V. stands out as one of the best knee replacement surgeons in Bangalore, and here’s why:
In summary, Dr. Naveen Kumar L.V. is a renowned knee pain specialist and orthopedic surgeon who offers world-class knee replacement surgery in Bangalore with a personal touch. His blend of top-notch surgical skill, advanced technology, and genuine care for patients makes him an ideal choice if you are considering knee replacement. We strive to provide the best knee surgery experience – from the first consultation in our HSR Layout clinic (easily reachable from Koramangala, BTM Layout, Bellandur, Sarjapur Road, Electronic City, Marathahalli, Indiranagar, and other areas) all the way through your successful recovery.
Types of Knee Replacement Procedures
Not all knee problems are the same, so knee replacement surgery is not one-size-fits-all. Dr. Naveen will recommend the type of procedure that best suits your condition, knee anatomy, age, and lifestyle goals. Here are the main types of knee replacement procedures offered at our Bangalore clinic:
- Total Knee Replacement (TKR): This is the most common procedure and what most people refer to as “knee replacement.” In a TKR, the surgeon replaces both sides of the knee joint (the lower end of the thigh bone and the upper end of the shin bone, and often the back of the kneecap) with prosthetic components. Essentially, all the damaged cartilage and a small amount of underlying bone are removed, and metal components are fixed in place, with a special medical-grade plastic spacer in between. The result is a new joint surface that glides smoothly. Total knee replacement is ideal when arthritis is widespread throughout the knee. It reliably relieves pain and corrects deformity. Most patients who undergo TKR experience dramatic pain reduction and improved function – the new knee can bend and bear weight without the grinding pain you had before. (Fun fact: a replaced knee behaves like a normal knee in terms of movement once you recover from surgery
- Partial Knee Replacement (Unicondylar Knee Replacement): Not every arthritic knee needs a full replacement. In some patients, only one part of the knee joint is severely damaged (either the inner side, outer side, or the kneecap joint). In such cases, a partial knee replacement can be a great option. This surgery replaces only the affected compartment of the knee and leaves the healthy parts untouched. Because it’s a smaller intervention, partial replacements often involve a smaller incision, less bone removal, and a quicker recovery. Patients often report the knee feels “more natural” since ligaments are preserved. However, a partial knee replacement is only suitable if the damage is truly limited to one area – Dr. Naveen will use advanced imaging and examination to determine this. If arthritis is likely to progress to other parts of the knee, a total replacement may be recommended instead. When appropriate, though, partial knee surgery can give excellent results with shorter hospital stays and rehabilitation time.
- Bilateral Knee Replacement: If both knees are badly arthritic, you might eventually need replacement in both. This can be done either simultaneously (during one surgical session) or staged (separate surgeries a few months apart). Dr. Naveen has extensive experience with simultaneous bilateral knee replacements for patients who need it – for example, if both knees are equally painful and the patient is medically fit. Doing both at once means one anesthesia event and a single rehabilitation period for both knees, which some patients prefer to get everything done in one go. Others may opt to do one knee at a time (staged) to focus on one recovery at a time. Either approach can be safe and effective. Dr. Naveen will discuss the pros and cons with you, considering factors like your age, fitness, and support at home. Many of our bilateral knee patients are thrilled to get rid of pain in both knees and often say they wish they had done it sooner.
- Revision Knee Replacement: A knee replacement is designed to last many years – typically 15-20 years or more in 80-90% of patients. However, if you are younger or very active, or if complications occur, a revision surgery might be needed down the line. Revision means replacing an old or failed implant with a new one. This is a more complex surgery because there may be bone loss or scar tissue to manage, and specialized implants are often required. Dr. Naveen is highly experienced in revision knee surgery, having trained in centers in the UK for complex joint revisions. Common reasons for revision include implant wear-and-tear (loosening), infection, or instability. If you had a knee replacement elsewhere that is now giving trouble, we can evaluate and, if needed, perform a safe revision to get you back on track.
- Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement: Our center is proud to offer robotic knee replacement technology. Dr. Naveen is one of the few surgeons in Bangalore certified in the Mako robotic system for knee replacements. In a robotic-assisted procedure, a 3D model of your knee is created from a CT scan, and a robotic arm helps the surgeon execute the bone cuts with sub-millimeter precision. Don’t worry – the surgery is still performed by Dr. Naveen; the robot is a tool that ensures perfect alignment and placement as per the plan. The potential benefits of robotic surgery include more accurate implant positioning (which may improve the knee’s natural feel and longevity), less soft tissue damage, and possibly a faster recovery with less pain. If you’re a candidate for robotic surgery, Dr. Naveen will discuss this option. Whether done with traditional instruments or the aid of a robot, the goal is the same: a well-balanced knee that moves freely and lasts a long time.
Note: Dr. Naveen will customize the surgical plan for you. Every knee is unique. We take into account your age, activity level, knee anatomy, and overall health before recommending any procedure. Rest assured, you will get an honest opinion – if you do not need surgery, we’ll tell you that too! And if you do, we’ll choose the type of knee replacement that maximizes your benefits and minimizes risks.
What to Expect: Before, During, and After Surgery
Facing surgery can be intimidating – but knowing what to expect can help ease your mind. We believe an informed patient is a more comfortable patient! Here’s an overview of the journey when you undergo total knee replacement with Dr. Naveen:
Before Surgery: Preparing for Your Knee Replacement
Thorough evaluation: Once you and Dr. Naveen decide to proceed with knee replacement, our team will conduct a detailed pre-surgery evaluation. This includes blood tests, cardiac check-up, and any other necessary investigations to ensure you’re fit for anesthesia and surgery. We’ll review your current medications. (For example, if you’re on blood thinners or certain arthritis meds, you may need to stop them a week prior.) It’s important to have conditions like diabetes or blood pressure well controlled before surgery.
Personalized planning: Dr. Naveen will take precise measurements of your knee via X-rays or scans to plan the surgery. If a robotic surgery is planned, a CT scan might be done to map your knee. We’ll also discuss the type of anesthesia with you – typically either a spinal anesthesia (which numbs your legs but you are awake or lightly sedated) or general anesthesia (where you’re fully asleep). Both are safe; the anesthesiologist will recommend the best option in your case.
Pre-hab and lifestyle tweaks: Often, we recommend some physiotherapy exercises in the weeks leading up to surgery (“pre-hab”). Strengthening your thigh and calf muscles beforehand can speed up recovery. If you smoke, this is a great time to stop – smoking can slow down wound healing. We’ll also guide you on any weight loss or diet changes if needed, because a healthier body heals better. Arrange for support at home – for the first couple of weeks post-surgery, having a family member or friend to help with chores will make recovery smoother. And don’t worry, we’ll make sure you have a walker or crutches and other assistive devices ready for when you leave the hospital.
During Surgery: The Day of Your Knee Replacement
On the day of surgery, you’ll be admitted to the hospital (if not already the night before). Dr. Naveen will meet you before the procedure to answer any last-minute questions and mark the surgical site. Expect to be in the operating room for around 1 to 2 hours for a knee replacement procedure. Here’s a quick rundown of what happens during the surgery:
- Anesthesia & prep: You’ll receive the spinal or general anesthesia as discussed. Once you’re comfortably anesthetized (you won’t feel any pain during the operation), the surgical team cleans your knee and leg with antiseptic solution to maintain a sterile environment and reduces infection risk.
- Surgery steps: Dr. Naveen makes an incision (cut) in front of the knee to access the joint. The size of the incision can vary (usually around 6-10 inches, smaller in minimally invasive approaches). The damaged ends of the thigh bone (femur) and shin bone (tibia) are carefully removed or reshaped using special guides. Any remaining damaged cartilage is cleared. If the kneecap (patella) underside is worn out, that may be smoothed or a plastic button put in place. Then the artificial components – contoured metal pieces for femur and tibia, and a plastic spacer that sits between them – are implanted. These components may be cemented into place with bone cement or be of a type that allows your bone to grow onto them. Dr. Naveen pays close attention to aligning your leg correctly and balancing the ligaments so that the knee bends and straightens with proper tension (this is critical for a good result). If robotic assistance is used, the robot ensures the cuts match the plan perfectly.
- Closing up: Once the new knee components are in place and everything looks good, the incision is closed with sutures or staples. You’ll have a dressing (bandage) applied over the incision. The whole process is meticulous but efficient in Dr. Naveen’s experienced hands. Right after surgery, you’ll be moved to a recovery area where nurses and doctors monitor you as you wake up from anesthesia.
Pain management: Even before you wake up, we take steps to manage pain. Often, Dr. Naveen or the anesthesiology team will put a nerve block (an injection to numb nerves in the leg) or inject local anesthetic around the knee during surgery. This greatly reduces post-op pain in the first day or two. You’ll also be given IV pain medications as needed. Our goal is to keep you comfortable – some pain is normal after any surgery, but we keep it at a tolerable level so you can start moving and rehabbing quickly.
After Surgery: Recovery and Rehabilitation
Congratulations – you have a new knee! Now the focus shifts to recovery and helping you get the most out of your knee replacement. Here’s what happens after the operation:
In the hospital: You will stay in the hospital for a short period after surgery. Many patients spend about 2–4 days in the hospital, though this can vary.
On Day 1 (the same evening or next morning after surgery), physiotherapists will start working with you. Initially, it’s gentle movements: wiggling your toes, moving your ankles, and doing static exercises like pressing the back of your knee down into the bed (to engage your thigh muscles). These help improve circulation and prevent stiffness.
By Day 2, most patients will sit up and dangle their legs at the bedside and even take a few steps with a walker under supervision. Don’t be surprised – yes, we get you up and walking very soon after knee replacement! Early movement is key to preventing blood clots and speeding recovery. You’ll have a drip for fluids and maybe a drain in your knee (to remove any excess fluid from the joint area) for a day. Nurses will give you medications to manage pain and prevent clots (usually a blood thinner injection or pill).
Rehabilitation and physiotherapy: Physical therapy is your best friend after knee replacement. Our expert physiotherapists will guide you through exercises to gradually increase your knee’s range of motion and strengthen the muscles. Initially, it might be a bit challenging, but each day gets better. You’ll practice bending the knee more each day (usually aiming for at least 90 degrees bend before leaving hospital) and strengthening exercises like gentle leg lifts. By the time you’re discharged, you will be walking with a walker or crutches on your own for short distances (like around the room or hallway). We’ll teach you how to safely climb stairs with assistance if needed (typically: “up with the good leg, down with the operated leg” using support).
Going home: Most people go home after their hospital stay; some might go to a short-term rehab facility if extra help is needed (though with our robust home physiotherapy network, that’s rarely necessary). At home, you will continue physiotherapy — either with a professional coming to your home or by visiting our center periodically, depending on what’s convenient. You’ll have some staples or stitches on your incision that will be removed about 2 weeks after surgery (we’ll schedule a follow-up for that). During the first 2-3 weeks, you’ll likely use a walker, then progress to a cane, and eventually walk without support when you feel steady (often by around 2-3 weeks you can walk short distances without the walker, and by 4-6 weeks more confidently).
Pain and medication: It’s normal to have moderate pain for a few weeks, but it improves steadily. We will prescribe pain relief tablets that you can take as needed. Many patients find their pain is well controlled with medications by the end of week 1 or 2. The knee might be swollen for a few weeks – icing and elevating the leg help reduce swelling. Keep in mind, the “pain after knee replacement” is temporary and very manageable, and it’s different from the arthritis pain you had (post-surgery pain lessens week by week, whereas arthritis pain would only worsen without surgery). We’ll also guide you on wound care and signs of any issues to watch (though problems are uncommon, we stay proactive).
Follow-ups: You’ll have regular follow-up appointments with Dr. Naveen – usually at 2 weeks (for stitch removal and check-up), 6 weeks, 3 months, and so on. During these visits, we check your range of motion (most patients get back to 120-130 degrees bend eventually), and take X-rays to ensure the implants are in good position. Dr. Naveen will also discuss gradually resuming activities. By 6 weeks, many patients are walking without a cane and doing most daily activities like shopping or light housekeeping. By 3 months, you should be doing very well – walking longer distances, climbing stairs better, and maybe doing gentle exercises like stationary cycling or swimming. Over 6-12 months, any residual stiffness keeps improving. You can expect to return to an active lifestyle – not high-impact sports, but things like walking, golf, cycling, yoga are typically fine (and encouraged!). Your new knee won’t prevent you from traveling or enjoying hobbies; it’s there to enable those things with far less pain than before.
A new lease on life: Most people find that by 3 to 6 months post-op, they hardly think about their knee anymore – it just works. They can walk without limping, climb stairs normally, and most importantly, they have relief from the constant pain that plagued them. You’ll likely wonder why you didn’t do it sooner! We’ve had patients tell us that knee replacement was “life-changing” – being able to play with grandkids, take morning walks in the park, or even go on trekking vacations that were impossible before. Our team will continue to be a resource for you even after you’re fully recovered. We’re just a phone call away if you have questions during rehab or even years later.
Your commitment: Successful recovery does require some effort from your side – mainly doing your physiotherapy exercises and staying active as advised. Think of it as a partnership: Dr. Naveen provides a brand new knee, and you put in the work to make it strong and functional. Don’t worry, we’ll support you throughout. And remember, every patient’s recovery timeline is a little different – so don’t be discouraged if your friend was off the walker in 2 weeks and you take 4 weeks. Steady progress is what matters, and we’ll ensure you keep moving forward.