How safe is knee replacement--6 things to know

If you are someone you know is considering knee replacement surgery, it's completely natural to have concerns about safety, recovery, and the overall impact on life. After all, deciding to undergo a major surgical procedure like this isn't easy. Whether someone is living with chronic knee pain, arthritis, or limited mobility, knee replacement surgery offers a way out, but understanding the potential risks and benefits is key.


Here are 6 important aspects of knee replacement surgery.


Infection and surgical risks: What one should know
One of the biggest concerns patients have is the risk of infection. Although this is rare, occurring in just about 1-2% of knee replacement surgeries, it’s a possibility that cannot be ignored, as per Dr Nishit Palo, Senior Consultant, Orthopaedics, ShardaCare-Healthcity. Infections can happen either at the surgical site or deep within the joint, leading to complications. In severe cases, another surgery might be needed to address the problem.


Post-surgery, the medical team will guide the patient on how to maintain proper hygiene and care for the wound. Following these instructions is very important to minimise the infection risks. Most infections can be avoided with good care.



Blood clots and Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
After knee replacement surgery, the formation of blood clots, particularly in the legs (known as Deep Vein Thrombosis or DVT), is a potential risk. In about 1-2% of cases, these clots can become serious and even life-threatening if they travel to the lungs, leading to a pulmonary embolism.


“Severe complications such as unexpected bleeding, blood clots, allergic reactions, nerve damage or headache, nausea, drowsiness, sore throat, and stroke due to general anaesthesia are rare. There is no evidence available regarding knee replacement surgery causing severe complications,” said Dr Girish L. Bhalerao, Super Specialty Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, Wockhardt Hospital Mira Road.


While this might sound alarming, it's important to remember that doctors are well-prepared for this risk. Early mobility, simple leg exercises, and compression stockings all play a significant role in preventing DVT.


Longevity of knee implants : How long will it last?
One of the common questions is, “How long will my knee implant last?” Most modern knee implants are designed to last between 25 to 30 years. However, factors such as lifestyle, activity levels, and weight can influence the longevity of the implant. For example, someone who participates in high-impact activities may experience more wear and tear, increasing the chance of implant failure or loosening over time.


To prolong the life of your new knee, doctors typically recommend avoiding activities that place excessive strain on the joint, such as running or jumping. Gentle exercises, such as walking, swimming, or cycling, are often encouraged to maintain the strength of your muscles and overall fitness without damaging the implant.


Nerve or blood vessel damage: Rare, but possible
Another rare complication of knee replacement surgery involves nerve or blood vessel damage. This occurs in less than 1% of cases but can lead to issues such as numbness, weakness, or even impaired circulation in the leg. These complications can result from the surgical process itself, as the knee joint is surrounded by many important nerves and blood vessels.



In most cases, nerve issues are temporary and improve with time. Physical therapy often helps manage and reduce symptoms.


Post-surgical stiffness and mobility: Early therapy is key
Stiffness or a reduced range of motion is something that about 5-10% of knee replacement patients experience. This condition, known as arthrofibrosis, can limit your ability to bend or straighten your knee fully, affecting your overall mobility.


The good news is that stiffness can be effectively managed with early intervention. Physical therapy is quite important here to get the knee back to normal. Starting exercises as soon as possible after surgery can help break down scar tissue and improve flexibility.



Chronic pain : When discomfort persists
In rare cases, even after a successful surgery, some patients may continue to experience chronic pain. For a small percentage of individuals, the discomfort might not be resolved by the surgery alone. This can be frustrating, especially if the initial pain that led to the surgery improves, but new or different pain arises.


What is the recovery period?
“The typical recovery process after undergoing a knee replacement surgery varies from person to person. Various factors can contribute to one’s recovery process. Patients are usually asked to stay in the hospital for 2 to 4 days once the surgery is done to keep them under supervision while tracking their condition. Your doctor may suggest physiotherapy to regain your muscle strength while ensuring knee mobility. Recovery speed and success rate of the surgery depend on several factors. This includes factors like age, overall health, weight, and pre-surgery fitness levels,” explained Dr Anup Khatri, senior Consultant- Orthopedics, Gleneagles Hospital, Parel, Mumbai.


Is knee replacement worth it?
Knee replacement surgery has transformed millions of lives, and has offered renewed mobility and relief from chronic pain. The procedure is considered safe and effective, with the vast majority of patients experiencing significant improvement in their quality of life. While there are risks involved, they are generally rare and manageable with proper care.