Knee replacement surgery involves replacing the worn-out or diseased knee joint with an artificial joint called a prosthesis. Knee replacement surgery is beneficial in relieving pain and restoring your lost disabilities. It has a 95% success rate. Despite the fact that the surgery can be a good treatment option, many people have misconceptions regarding it preventing them from exploring this treatment option.
Myth 1: The success rate of the surgery is very low.
Fact: A knee replacement is an effective treatment for knees that worn out or diseased. People who undergo this surgery are able to perform their daily activities comfortably and without pain. Research also showed that knee replacement surgery has 95 % success rate in most patients.
Myth 2: Bending of the knee or sitting on the floor is difficult even after the replacement surgery.
Fact: Everyone has a misconception that it is difficult to bend knee after the replacement, but it is not true. The fact is that it depends mainly on the quality of the surgery, the prosthesis used and post-operative rehabilitation. Many types of prosthesis allow the same range of movements as the normal joint.
Myth 3: If the surgery fails or a problem arises with the implant after the surgery, there is no chance to repair again.
Fact: If the surgery fails, your doctor may perform a second surgery, called revision surgery after evaluating the reasons for the first surgery and considering your overall health.
Myth 4: Knee replacement surgery does not last for more than 10 years.
Fact: It is a myth, the fact is that knee replacement lasts for the lifetime. This is because of the improved quality of surgery and advanced techniques used during the surgery.
Myth 5: After knee replacement, it takes months to recover.
Fact: It depends on the quality of the surgery and postoperative care taken by the patient after the surgery. Most people can get back to their routine activities within a few weeks after the surgery.
Myth 6: It is not possible to undergo replacement surgeries for both the knee at the same time.
Fact: Undergoing surgery for both the knees at the same time has many advantages. You have to visit the hospital once, and the recovery will be fast as both the knees will be pain-free after the surgery.
Myth 7: It is not possible to drive after knee replacement surgery.
Fact: Driving is easier after the surgery. Most of the people start driving within 6-8 weeks of surgery.
Myth 8: It is not possible to undergo surgery at the age of 65 years.
Fact: Age is not a limiting factor for the surgery. You can undergo a knee replacement surgery even above the age of 65 years because this is the age where the cartilage gets damaged.
Myth 9: In knee replacement surgery, the implant is rejected as a foreign body.
Fact: Artificial joints are made up of some special metals inserted into the body to replace the knee. These metals are inert and do not react with the body tissues. These joints are compatible with our body, and it can stay in the body for ever without causing any significant side effects.
Myth 10: Physiotherapy is necessary after the surgery, and the recovery is very slow.
Fact: You may not need physiotherapy as the surgeons will teach all the exercises while you are in the hospital, which you have to do after the discharge. Most of the patients walk without any support after four weeks.
Knee replacement surgery is a good option to treat defects related to the knee. However, like any other surgery, there are some benefits and risks for this surgery too. If you have any misconceptions about the surgery, consult your doctor and plan for the treatment.
