Knee replacement (knee arthroplasty) is an operation in which the worn surfaces of the knee joint are replaced with metal and medical-grade plastic parts (an implant). It is done mainly for advanced arthritis that causes severe pain, stiffness and difficulty walking when medicines, exercises, physiotherapy and other treatments no longer help.
There are three main types: total knee replacement, partial knee replacement and revision knee replacement. The right option depends on how much of the knee is damaged, the condition of the ligaments and bone, and the patient's age, health and activity level.
PMG Hospital (PMG Orthopedic Hospital), Gota, is an orthopedic hospital for knee replacement in Ahmedabad, where total, partial and revision knee replacement are performed. This page explains when knee replacement is needed, the types of surgery, robotic assistance, the procedure, recovery, risks and cost factors.
What Is Knee Replacement?
The knee has three compartments: the inner side (medial), the outer side (lateral) and the area behind the kneecap (patellofemoral). Smooth cartilage covers the bone ends. In arthritis this cartilage wears away, so bone rubs on bone, causing pain, swelling and stiffness.
In knee replacement, the damaged cartilage and a thin layer of bone are removed, and the surfaces are covered with an implant: a metal part on the thigh bone (femur), a metal tray on the shin bone (tibia), and a plastic insert between them that allows smooth movement. The back of the kneecap may also be resurfaced.
Types of Knee Replacement
| Type | What it involves | Usually considered for |
|---|---|---|
| Total knee replacement | All three compartments of the knee are resurfaced | Arthritis affecting the whole knee, often with deformity |
| Partial (unicompartmental) knee replacement | Only the one damaged compartment is resurfaced; the healthy parts and the cruciate ligaments are kept | Arthritis limited to one compartment, with healthy ligaments, in selected patients |
| Revision knee replacement | An earlier knee implant is removed or corrected and replaced | A worn, loose, unstable or infected earlier knee replacement |
Related pages: Total knee replacement·Partial knee replacement·Revision knee replacement
When Is Knee Replacement Needed?
The most common reason is osteoarthritis, the gradual wear of the joint cartilage. Other causes include rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory arthritis, arthritis after an old injury or fracture, and loss of blood supply to the bone near the knee (osteonecrosis).
Signs That It May Be Time for an Assessment
- Knee pain that limits walking, climbing stairs or getting up from a chair
- Pain at rest or at night
- Stiffness or swelling that does not settle with medicines or physiotherapy
- The leg bending inward (bow-leg) or outward (knock-knee) as the joint wears
- Pain that affects work, sleep or independence
Treatment Before Surgery
Knee replacement is usually advised only after other treatments have been tried, such as:
- Weight reduction when needed, and regular low-impact exercise
- Physiotherapy to strengthen the thigh and hip muscles
- Pain-relief medicines, used as advised by a doctor
- Walking aids, footwear advice or knee braces
- Joint injections in selected patients, which may give temporary relief
A knee replacement treatment hospital in Ahmedabad should provide these non-surgical treatments as well as surgery, because not every painful knee needs an operation.
Assessment Before Surgery
- 1History and examination: pain, walking distance, range of movement, deformity, ligament stability, and the hip and spine, which can also cause knee pain
- 2Standing X-rays of the knee: to see which compartments are worn; sometimes a full-leg X-ray to measure alignment
- 3MRI or other scans: only in selected cases
- 4Fitness for surgery: blood tests, ECG, blood sugar and blood pressure control, and checks of the heart, lungs and kidneys as needed
- 5Infection check: any skin, dental or urinary infection is treated before surgery
- 6Medicines: blood thinners and some other medicines may need to be stopped or changed, only as advised by the doctor
Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement
In robotic-assisted knee replacement, the surgeon uses a robotic system to take measurements of the knee during the operation and to guide the size, position and alignment of the implant according to the surgical plan. The robot does not perform the operation on its own; the surgeon performs the surgery.
Studies show that robotic assistance can improve the accuracy of implant positioning. Whether this leads to better long-term pain relief, function or implant life compared with conventional surgery is still being studied. Robotic-assisted surgery is one option; conventional surgery remains a well-established method.
At PMG Hospital, robotic-assisted knee replacement is performed using the ROSA Knee System (Zimmer Biomet).
Related page: Robotic knee replacement
TriNova - Three Choices During Surgery
"TriNova" is the name PMG Hospital uses when three choices are combined during knee replacement in suitable patients:
| Choice | What it means | Points to consider |
|---|---|---|
| Robotic assistance | Measurements during surgery guide implant size, position and alignment | Not every knee needs robotic assistance |
| Subvastus approach | The knee is opened from beneath the vastus medialis muscle instead of cutting into the quadriceps tendon | May help early muscle function; may not suit very stiff knees, some deformities or revision surgery |
| Surgery without a thigh tourniquet | The operation is done without a tight band on the thigh that stops blood flow | May reduce thigh discomfort; bleeding during surgery is controlled in other ways; decided case by case |
Knee Replacement Surgery in Ahmedabad: Step by Step
The main steps are similar in any knee replacement surgery hospital in Ahmedabad:
- 1Anaesthesia: usually spinal anaesthesia (numbing the lower body), often with a nerve block for pain relief after surgery; general anaesthesia is used in some patients
- 2Incision: a cut is made over the front of the knee to reach the joint
- 3Preparing the bone: the worn cartilage and a thin layer of bone are removed, and the bones are shaped to fit the implant
- 4Fitting the implant: trial parts are checked for size, alignment and ligament balance, and the final implant is fixed, usually with bone cement
- 5Closure: the wound is closed with stitches or staples and dressed
- 6Duration: the operation usually takes about one to two hours for one knee, depending on the case
Recovery After Knee Replacement
| Time | What usually happens |
|---|---|
| Day of surgery or next day | Standing and first steps with a walker and the physiotherapist |
| First few days | Pain control, exercises to bend and straighten the knee, walking with support; discharge when safe |
| Weeks 1–2 | Walking with support, wound care, stitches or staples removed when the wound has healed |
| Weeks 3–6 | Less need for support, home exercises, light daily activities |
| Around 6 weeks | Driving, once the surgeon allows it |
| 3–6 months | Strength and stamina continue to improve |
This is a general guide. Recovery is slower after revision surgery or when both knees are replaced, and differs from person to person.
Physiotherapy and Pain Control
- Exercises start early and continue at home for several weeks; regular exercise is important for knee movement
- Pain relief is given with a combination of medicines and, early on, nerve blocks; ice packs and elevation reduce swelling
- Blood-thinning medicines, leg exercises and early walking help to prevent blood clots
- Some swelling and warmth around the knee can last for several months
Risks and Possible Complications
Knee replacement is a common operation, but no surgery is without risk. The surgeon explains these risks before taking consent.
- Infection of the wound or around the implant, which may need further surgery
- Blood clots in the leg veins (deep vein thrombosis) or lungs (pulmonary embolism)
- Stiffness, sometimes needing manipulation under anaesthesia
- Continuing pain in some patients, even when the implant is well placed
- Wound problems, such as delayed healing or discharge
- Injury to nerves or blood vessels, which is rare
- Fracture around the implant during or after surgery
- Instability, or loosening and wear of the implant over time, which may need revision surgery
- Anaesthesia-related and general medical risks, such as heart, lung or kidney problems, especially in older patients or those with other illnesses
Knee Replacement Surgery Hospital in Ahmedabad
When choosing a knee replacement hospital in Ahmedabad, check that the treating surgeon is a qualified orthopaedic surgeon with valid medical council registration, that the hospital regularly performs this operation, how infection is prevented, which implants and tests are available, what physiotherapy and follow-up are provided, and what the written estimate includes.
Look beyond general phrases such as "a knee replacement hospital with modern facilities" and ask which facilities are actually available on site.
Knee Replacement Surgery Cost in Ahmedabad
- One knee or both knees
- Total, partial or revision surgery
- The implant chosen
- Robotic-assisted or conventional surgery
- Length of hospital stay and room category
- Other medical conditions and any extra care needed
- Physiotherapy and follow-up
A written, itemised estimate can be requested from the hospital after assessment.
Insurance
- Medically necessary knee replacement is generally covered under health insurance policies, subject to policy terms, waiting periods and insurer approval
- Some policies have limits on room rent or implant costs; check these with your insurer before surgery
- Ask the hospital whether cashless treatment is available with your insurer, and which documents are needed
Knee Replacement Doctor in Ahmedabad
Knee replacement is performed by an orthopaedic surgeon, usually one with training in joint replacement (arthroplasty). A family physician may first treat knee pain and refer you, but the decision about surgery is made by the orthopaedic surgeon after examination and X-rays. Other doctors are involved at different stages:
| Doctor or therapist | Role in knee replacement care |
|---|---|
| Orthopaedic surgeon | Assesses the knee, advises non-surgical or surgical treatment, chooses the type of replacement and performs the operation |
| Physician or cardiologist | Checks heart, lung and kidney function, blood sugar and blood pressure before surgery, especially in older patients |
| Anaesthetist | Plans spinal or general anaesthesia and nerve blocks for pain relief after surgery |
| Radiologist | Performs and reports X-rays and, when needed, other scans |
| Rheumatologist | Manages rheumatoid and other inflammatory arthritis before and after surgery |
| Physiotherapist | Guides walking, knee bending and strengthening exercises from the first day |
Knee Replacement Surgery Doctor in Ahmedabad
Knee replacement is a planned operation, so there is time to understand it fully. Along with the questions listed in the FAQ below, it is reasonable to ask your knee replacement surgery doctor in Ahmedabad:
- Do both knees need surgery, and if so, will they be operated on together or separately?
- Will robotic assistance be used for my knee, and why or why not?
- Will the back of the kneecap be resurfaced?
- What type of anaesthesia and pain relief will be used after surgery?
- Which of my current medicines, such as blood thinners or diabetes medicines, need to be changed before surgery?
- How will infection and blood clots be prevented in my case?
- When can I climb stairs, use an Indian-style toilet, or sit on the floor, and which positions should I avoid?
- How often will follow-up visits and X-rays be needed in the years after surgery?
Knee Replacement Treatment Hospital in Ahmedabad
Knee replacement needs a safe operation, careful monitoring and several weeks of guided physiotherapy, so the hospital where it is done should support each of these stages. These are the facilities that matter most:
| Facility | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Operation theatre suitable for joint replacement, with strict infection control | Infection around an implant is a serious complication |
| Anaesthesia services | Needed for spinal or general anaesthesia and nerve blocks |
| X-ray and laboratory tests | Used to plan surgery, check fitness and monitor recovery |
| Access to intensive care for high-risk patients | Older patients and those with heart, lung or kidney disease may need closer monitoring |
| Physiotherapy service | Early walking and regular exercises are needed for knee movement |
| Follow-up arrangements | The wound, movement and implant are checked over months and years |
The facilities available at PMG Hospital are listed further below on this page.
Treating Surgeon
At PMG Hospital, knee replacement is performed by:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Name | Dr. Hiren Patel |
| Qualification | MS (Ortho), B.J. Medical College, Ahmedabad |
| Specialty | Orthopaedics |
| Designation | Director & Head Joint Replacement Surgeon, PMG Hospital |
| Registration status | Registered Medical Practitioner |
| Registration number | Gujarat Medical Council Reg. No. G-20583 |
| OPD availability | Monday to Saturday, 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM |
Facilities at PMG Hospital
- Orthopaedic OPD, Monday to Saturday
- Emergency and trauma care, 24×7
- Orthopaedic physiotherapy centre
- Robotic-assisted knee replacement system (ROSA Knee System)
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I see a doctor about knee replacement?
See an orthopaedic surgeon if knee pain limits walking, stairs or sleep, if the knee is stiff, swollen or bending out of shape, or if medicines, exercises and physiotherapy no longer help. An orthopaedic surgeon first checks whether non-surgical treatment can still help, and advises surgery only when it is needed.
What should I ask the surgeon before knee replacement?
Ask whether you need a total or partial replacement and why, whether non-surgical options are still suitable, which implant and technique will be used, what the risks are for you, how long you will stay in hospital, what physiotherapy is needed, and what is included in the written estimate. The surgeon should answer these clearly before you decide.
What is the difference between total and partial knee replacement?
A total knee replacement resurfaces all three compartments of the knee. A partial knee replacement resurfaces only the one worn compartment and keeps the healthy parts and the cruciate ligaments. A partial replacement is suitable only when arthritis is limited to one compartment and the ligaments are healthy, which is decided after examination and X-rays.
Is robotic knee replacement better than conventional surgery?
Robotic assistance helps the surgeon measure the knee during surgery and place the implant more accurately according to the plan. Studies show improved accuracy of implant position, but long-term differences in pain, function and implant life compared with conventional surgery are still being studied. Conventional surgery remains a well-established option, and the choice depends on the knee and the surgeon's assessment.
How long does recovery take after knee replacement?
Many patients start walking with support on the day of surgery or the next day and go home after a few days. Light daily activities usually return over the first few weeks, driving after about six weeks once the surgeon allows it, and fuller strength over three to six months with regular physiotherapy. Recovery differs from person to person.
How long does a knee replacement last?
Large joint registry studies show that most modern total knee replacements are still in place without needing further surgery 15 to 20 years or more after surgery. How long an implant lasts depends on age, weight, activity level, bone quality and the type of replacement. Partial knee replacements have a somewhat higher chance of needing further surgery than total knee replacements.
What are the risks of knee replacement?
Risks include infection, blood clots in the leg or lungs, stiffness, continuing pain in some patients, wound problems, injury to nerves or blood vessels, fracture around the implant, instability, loosening or wear of the implant needing revision surgery, and anaesthesia-related and general medical risks. The surgeon explains how these risks apply to you before you consent.
What facilities should a hospital have for knee replacement?
It should have an operation theatre suitable for joint replacement with strict infection-control practices, anaesthesia services, X-ray, laboratory tests, physiotherapy, access to intensive care for high-risk patients, and arrangements for follow-up.
What decides the cost of knee replacement?
The cost depends on whether one or both knees are replaced, total, partial or revision surgery, the implant, the use of robotic assistance, the length of hospital stay, room category, other medical conditions and physiotherapy. A written, itemised estimate can be requested from the hospital after assessment.
Contact and Location
PMG Hospital
3rd Floor, Athena Avenue, B/H Jaguar Showroom, Nr. Eulogia Inn Hotel, Gota, Ahmedabad, India
- Phone / WhatsApp:
- +91 96627 70141
- OPD:
- Mon – Sat · 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Emergency and trauma care:
- 24×7