An Overview of Total Knee Replacement in Thailand

Total knee replacement surgery, also called total knee arthroplasty, is a procedure where damaged cartilage and some underlying bone around the knee joint is resurfaced with a plastic spacer and metal implants. This procedure could be more accurately described as “knee resurfacing” since only a thin surface area of the bone is replaced.

The knee is the largest joint in the human body, so maintaining your knee health is important for undertaking everyday activities. The first knee replacement surgery took place in 1968 and naturally, significant improvements have been made since. With modern techniques and technology, knee replacement surgery is one of the most successful medical procedures.

When is Total Knee Replacement Needed?

Total knee replacement surgery is necessary for those who experience chronic knee pain and disability. Most knee pain that requires surgery is caused by different types of arthritis. One of the types is osteoarthritis, an age-related breakdown of the cartilage of the knee that cushions the bones, typically affecting people over 50 years old. Other forms of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis caused by autoimmune disease or post-traumatic arthritis caused by a severe knee injury or fracture, can also lead to chronic knee pain..

You may need to consider total knee replacement surgery if you experience chronic knee pain or the inability to move your knee normally. A doctor might recommend this procedure if knee pain or stiffness limits everyday activities, if you experience pain in your knee while sleeping or resting, or if other approaches to resolving your knee pain, such as physical therapy or injection treatments, have been unsuccessful.

Stages of the Total Knee Replacement Process

Orthopaedic Evaluation

If you think you may need a total knee replacement, the first step is to talk to an orthopedic specialized in knee construction specialist.. They will evaluate your discomfort and how much your knee pain limits your mobility.

During the evaluation, your doctor will look at your medical history and perform a physical test to assess your knee strength, mobility and alignment. They may also perform an x-ray or MRI scan to get clear pictures of your knee joint.

Preparation for Surgery

After recommending surgery, your doctor may suggest that you undergo a full physical evaluation to ensure there are no underlying health issues that may cause complications during and after surgery. This could include urine and blood tests and an electrocardiogram. Your doctor may also recommend that you stop taking certain medications before the procedure.

Knee Replacement Procedure

When you arrive at the hospital, the doctors will discuss the details of your surgery, including the surgical technique and the prosthetic that will be used, so you are prepared and fully informed. You will then undergo anesthesia before the procedure.

The surgery itself will take 1-2 hours, and afterward, you will be moved to a recovery room for several hours for monitoring as you come out of the anesthesia. You will then be kept overnight at the hospital.

Vejthani Hospital’s expert surgeons have gained international recognition for their arthroplasty procedure skills. We use up-to-date techniques, including computer-assisted and robot-assisted surgery technologies, to ensure the surgery is done with precision and care. Our minimally invasive surgeries mean that patients can walk within 6-12 hours after surgery. .

After Surgery

Home care after your procedure is an important part of your recovery to ensure that your surgery is successful. You will be given medications to take as you recover and specific instructions for wound care. Stitches will usually be removed around two weeks after surgery.

As you recover, you will also gradually be able to move around more. You need to follow your doctor’s instructions and perform the appropriate exercises to strengthen your new knee joint. You should regain the ability to do most normal daily activities within 3 to 6 weeks of surgery.

Joint Replacement Facilities at Vejthani Hospital

Vejthani Hospital has a state-of-the-art Hip and Knee Center for anyone in need of total knee replacement in Thailand. Our modern facilities are run by experienced surgeons and staff committed to providing high-quality patient care. Book an appointment today to find out more about total knee replacement surgery.