If your doctor has told you that you need a total knee replacement, you probably have a hundred questions. Will it hurt? How long will recovery take? Will you walk normally again? At COJRI, we believe an informed patient is a confident patient.
Total knee replacement (TKR), also called total knee arthroplasty — is one of the most successful procedures in modern medicine, with over 95% of patients reporting significant pain relief and restored quality of life. Here is everything you need to know.
What Is Total Knee Replacement Surgery?
Total knee replacement is a surgical procedure in which the damaged surfaces of the knee joint are removed and replaced with precision-engineered metal and plastic prostheses. The lower end of the femur, the upper end of the tibia, and the back of the patella are resurfaced.
The goal is straightforward: eliminate chronic pain, restore normal movement, and give you your life back. Surgery typically takes 90–120 minutes under spinal anaesthesia at COJRI’s facility at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Mohali.
Who Needs Total Knee Replacement?
Total knee replacement is recommended when:
- Severe knee osteoarthritis confirmed on X-ray (Stage 3 or 4)
- Knee pain is constant and significantly limits daily activities
- Non-surgical treatment—physiotherapy, injections, medications—has failed after 3–6 months
- X-rays confirm bone-on-bone contact or significant joint space narrowing
- The knee has developed deformity such as varus (bow-legged) or valgus (knock-kneed)
| Age Is Not a Barrier At COJRI, we have successfully performed total knee replacements in patients from their 40s to their 80s. The decision is based on arthritis severity and impact on quality of life — not age. |
The COJRI Total Knee Replacement Procedure
- Pre-operative assessment: X-rays, blood tests, anesthesia evaluation, and digital templating for implant sizing.
- Anesthesia: Spinal anesthesia with sedation—comfortable and pain-free throughout.
- Bone preparation: Damaged bone and cartilage removed using precision cutting guides or robotic assistance.
- Implant placement: Metal femoral component, tibial tray, and polyethylene spacer secured in optimal position.
- Wound closure: Knee closed in layers. Drain placed if needed. Physiotherapy begins within hours.
Recovery Timeline After Total Knee Replacement
| Time Period | Recovery Milestones | COJRI Support |
| Day 1 | First steps with walker, physiotherapy begins | IV pain management, nurse support |
| Days 2–4 | Walking longer distances, stair practice | Daily wound check, discharge planning |
| Weeks 1–2 | Home with walker, independent basic care | Home physio programme + COJRI helpline |
| Weeks 3–6 | Walking with a stick, outpatient physiotherapy | 3x weekly outpatient sessions |
| Month 3 | Return to daily activities, driving | Continued strength building |
| Month 6 | Full recovery, low-impact sports | Annual follow-up X-ray at COJRI |
How Long Does a Knee Replacement Last?
Modern knee implants, correctly placed by experienced surgeons, typically last 20–25 years. Longevity depends on implant quality, surgical precision, your activity level and body weight, and commitment to physiotherapy. At COJRI, we use only premium internationally certified implants and surgical precision techniques, including robotic knee replacement assistance, to maximize your implant’s lifespan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I sit cross-legged after total knee replacement?
A: Deep cross-legged sitting on the floor is generally not recommended after TKR as it stresses the implant. Sitting on a chair at 90 degrees is perfectly fine. Your COJRI physiotherapist will guide you on all safe positions.
Q: What are the risks of total knee replacement?
A: All surgery carries some risk. For TKR, these include infection, blood clots, implant loosening, and stiffness. COJRI’s protocols—prophylactic antibiotics, blood thinners, and early mobilization—significantly minimize these risks.
Q: Can both knees be replaced at the same time?
A: Simultaneous bilateral TKR is possible in selected patients but involves longer surgery and recovery. Most patients prefer staged surgery — one knee at a time, 3–6 months apart. Your COJRI surgeon will advise based on your health.
Q: What is the success rate of knee replacement?
A: Total knee replacement has over 95% patient satisfaction rate globally. At COJRI, with 30,000+ combined surgical procedures, our outcomes are among the best in North India.
Q: How do I prepare my home before knee replacement surgery?
A: Move frequently used items to waist height. Install grab rails in bathrooms. Arrange a downstairs sleeping area if possible. Prepare easy-to-cook meals in advance. Arrange help for the first 2 weeks. COJRI provides a detailed pre-operative home preparation checklist.
I consult patients from Chandigarh, Mohali, Panchkula, and across Punjab and Haryana. Book your appointment at COJRI today.