Total Knee Replacement (TKR) (also called total knee arthroplasty) is a surgery where the worn-out joint surfaces of the knee are resurfaced and replaced with implants (commonly metal + medical-grade plastic). It’s usually advised when severe arthritis or joint damage causes persistent pain, stiffness, and difficulty walking despite non-surgical treatments.
Related Orthopedic Knee Treatments
If Total Knee Replacement is not immediately required, several alternative orthopedic treatments may be considered depending on the severity of joint damage:
Procedure & Patient Journey
Total Knee Replacement (TKR) is performed under spinal or general anesthesia. Once anesthesia takes effect, the surgeon makes an incision over the front of the knee to access the joint. The damaged cartilage and a small portion of underlying bone from the femur (thigh bone), tibia (shin bone), and sometimes the underside of the patella (kneecap) are carefully removed.
The surgeon then prepares the bone surfaces to fit the artificial components. Metal implants are placed on the femur and tibia, and a medical-grade polyethylene spacer is inserted between them to allow smooth movement. The components are fixed using bone cement or press-fit techniques depending on the case. The surgeon checks alignment, stability, and range of motion before closing the incision with sutures or staples. The entire surgery typically takes 1 to 2 hours.
Hospital stay generally lasts 3 to 5 days. Physiotherapy starts immediately and continues after discharge. Most patients resume daily activities within 4 to 6 weeks, while complete recovery and strength improvement may take up to 3 months. Regular follow-ups ensure optimal healing and implant performance.
Types of surgeries
- Total Knee Replacement (TKR): whole joint surface is replaced.
- Partial (Unicompartmental) Knee Replacement (PKR): only the damaged compartment is replaced.
- Bilateral Knee Replacement: both knees in one sitting (selected cases).
- Robotic-assisted knee replacement: uses advanced planning/precision tools (availability and cost vary).
Cost in India
Price Varies depending on patient health condition, hospital category, surgeon expertise, implant type, and package inclusions.
- Delhi Starting from $2,336 to $8,760
- Mumbai Starting from $2,920 to $8,760
- Chennai Starting from $2,102 to $7,592
- Hyderabad Starting from $2,044 $7,592
Benefits
- Significant pain relief and improved daily function (walking, stairs, sitting/standing)
- Better joint alignment and stability
- Improved quality of life and independence
- Long-term solution when conservative treatments fail (case-by-case)
India and Turkey are among the most preferred destinations for Total Knee Replacement surgery due to their combination of advanced medical technology, highly experienced orthopedic surgeons, and significantly lower treatment costs compared to Western countries. Both countries offer internationally accredited hospitals equipped with modern operation theatres, robotic-assisted surgical systems, and comprehensive rehabilitation programs. Offer shorter waiting times, advanced implant options, and structured post-operative rehabilitation, making them excellent choices for international patients seeking high-quality knee replacement surgery at affordable prices.
Leading Hospitals for Total Knee Replacement Surgery
Browse internationally accredited hospitals offering advanced knee replacement surgery with modern operation theatres and comprehensive rehabilitation programs.
01/23/2024
