Orthopaedics & Joint Replacement

What is Orthopaedics & Joint Replacement?

A Simple Explanation for Patients

Orthopaedics treats conditions affecting bones, joints, and muscles. Joint replacement surgery replaces a damaged joint—like the knee, hip, or shoulder—with an artificial one, much like swapping worn-out parts in a machine to restore smooth function. It’s designed to relieve pain and improve mobility when other treatments fail.

Why Is Joint Replacement Needed?

Common Reasons

• Osteoarthritis or Rheumatoid Arthritis: Joint damage from wear or autoimmune disease.

• Injury or Trauma: Fractures or dislocations causing lasting damage.

• Age-Related Degeneration: Cartilage breakdown over time.

• Failed Previous Surgeries: Unsuccessful prior joint repairs.

• Chronic Pain and Restricted Movement: Limiting daily activities like walking or climbing.

Why Choose Manipal Hospitals for Orthopaedics & Joint Replacement?

• Globally Trained Surgeons: Experts in orthopaedic care.

• Robotic & Minimally Invasive Options: Precision surgery for faster recovery via our robotic surgery program.

• Comprehensive Rehabilitation: Tailored physiotherapy support.

• Affordable Packages: High-quality care at 60-80% lower costs than Western countries.

• International Patient Support: Visa assistance, airport pickup, and multilingual interpreters.

• NABH & JCI Accreditation: World-class standards for safety and quality.

Types of Joint Replacement Surgeries Offered

Most Common Surgeries

• Total Knee Replacement (TKR): Replaces the entire knee joint.

• Total Hip Replacement (THR): Replaces the hip joint with a prosthetic.

• Shoulder Replacement: Restores shoulder function.

• Revision Joint Replacement: Corrects or replaces failed implants.

• Minimally Invasive & Robotic-Assisted: Smaller incisions, faster recovery.

Who is the Right Candidate for Joint Replacement?

• Individuals with chronic joint pain unresponsive to medications.

• Those with reduced mobility impacting daily tasks.

• Patients with X-ray/MRI showing significant joint damage.

• Cases where conservative treatments (e.g., physiotherapy) have failed.

Who Should Avoid Joint Replacement?

• Patients with active infections in the body or joint.

• Those with severe co-morbidities unfit for surgery.

• Very young patients where alternative treatments are viable.

• Individuals with poor bone quality requiring other solutions.

Preparing for Your Joint Replacement Surgery

• Medical Tests: X-ray, MRI, blood tests for health assessment.

• Medication Review: Disclose all current medications and allergies.

• Lifestyle Changes: Stop smoking and alcohol weeks before surgery.

• Post-Op Support: Arrange a caregiver or family support.

• Prehabilitation: Strengthen muscles with pre-surgery physiotherapy.

What Happens During Joint Replacement Surgery?

Procedure Breakdown

• Anesthesia: General or regional anesthesia is administered.

• Joint Removal: Damaged joint surfaces are removed.

• Prosthetic Placement: Artificial components are secured.

• Wound Closure: Incision is closed with sutures.

• Duration: Typically 1-2 hours.

Recovery After Joint Replacement Surgery

• Hospital Stay: 2-5 days with close monitoring.

• Physiotherapy: Starts within 24 hours to restore mobility.

• Return to Normal Activities: Achieved in 4-8 weeks.

• Full Recovery: Up to 3-6 months for optimal function.

Risks and Complications

• Blood clots or infections at the surgical site.

• Implant loosening over time.

• Nerve or blood vessel injury (rare).

• Dislocation, particularly in hip replacement.

• Prosthesis rejection (very rare).

Benefits of Joint Replacement Surgery

• Pain-Free Movement: Eliminates chronic joint pain.

• Improved Mobility: Restores ease in daily activities.

• Enhanced Quality of Life: Boosts independence and well-being.

• Long-Term Function: Implants last 15–20 years.

• High Success Rates: Achieved with modern techniques.