Knee replacements are a surgical solution to help treat patients who have persistent, chronic knee pain due to worn out knee joints. Usually caused by osteoarthritis, other health conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, gout, or traumatic injuries can also lead to cartilage breaking down in the knee joint.
Learn More: Treating the Wear and Tear of Joints
Signs You Need A Knee Replacement
Before orthopaedic surgery in Singapore is considered, other treatments will be prescribed first. These include lifestyle modifications, steroid injections, braces, and physical therapy. If even after months of rehabilitation and medication you still experience symptoms like knee pain, swelling, stiffness, and loss of function, then you may be considered a candidate for knee replacement surgery.
Cost Of Knee Replacement
A knee replacement in a Singapore public hospital cost anywhere between $5,000 to $7,000. This cost increases to about $30,000 for private hospitals. These figures are just estimates and include operation fees, type of surgery (partial or total knee replacement in Singapore), implant costs, and other additional fees.
Preparing For A Knee Replacement
1. Prepare Your Home
The recovery time after a knee replacement can take several weeks. In view of this, you should set up your home to be a conducive environment for you to rest and recuperate optimally. This involves removing tripping hazards, and ensuring that your essentials are within reach as you will likely be spending a lot of time in bed. Take this time to let your family know how they can aid in your recovery.
2. Stop Taking Certain Medications
Some medications can interfere with your surgery. You should inform your orthopaedic doctor in Singapore what medications you are currently taking before the operation. They are well-placed to advise you on what to take and what to stop and when you can continue taking them during your recovery.
3. Condition Your Body
Exercise and physical therapy play a big role in your recovery after a knee replacement surgery. To support this process, you can do some lower body strength building exercises before the procedure. Being proactive can make it easier for you later on, and improve recovery during the post-operative stage.
4.Cut Down On Smoking And Drinking
Smoking and drinking diminish your physical health. As much as possible, try to cut down on unhealthy lifestyle habits before your knee replacement so you are optimally prepared for the surgical procedure and the recovery after.
5.Speak To Your Doctor
When in doubt, ask your orthopaedic doctor questions. Don’t be shy or hesitant. They are well-trained and equipped to furnish you with the answers you might need. Clarify your doubts and talk through the procedure and post-operative recovery stage with them so you know what to expect.
6. Go For All Pre-Surgery Appointments
As much as possible, try not to skip any of your medical appointments before your surgery. Important tests and evaluations will be conducted during this stage. If you can’t make an appointment, be sure to let your doctor know beforehand and reschedule.
What To Take Note Of
Swelling after orthopaedic surgery will peak in the first 7-10 days after the procedure. Try to have your leg elevated above the level of your heart by placing a pillow under your calf or ankle, not under your knee. You can also use ice to reduce the swelling and ease some discomfort.
As far as possible, ensure your knees are kept straight. This is an important factor to give the knee joint ample time to heal. You will be provided with a knee brace and it should be worn at all times as instructed by your doctor. Physical therapy sessions will also be scheduled and you should aim to go for all your appointments.
Keep in mind that much of your post-surgery recovery is very much in your hands. For the first few days give your knee the time and environment to heal as much as possible. After that, physical therapy and strength building exercises can help your body adapt to the knee replacement to restore mobility.
As a subspecialist for lower limb disorders and surgical treatment in Singapore, Dr Kannan Kaliyaperumal has experience and training with total knee replacement surgeries. Reach out to us today via our contact us page to set up an appointment and our support team will be happy to assist you.