Dr. Rahul Chauhan
Specialist in shoulder, knee, spine endoscopy and ultrasound guided orthopedic procedures.
Total knee replacement
Total Knee Replacement (TKR) is a surgical procedure performed to relieve severe knee pain and stiffness caused by advanced arthritis, most commonly osteoarthritis. The goal of the surgery is to replace the damaged joint surfaces with an artificial implant, allowing patients to walk comfortably again and return to an active lifestyle.
When medicines, exercises and injections no longer provide lasting relief and knee pain begins to interfere with daily life, knee replacement becomes a reliable and time-tested solution.
Our specialty in knee replacement
At our centre, we focus on advanced, muscle-sparing and outcome-focused knee replacement techniques to ensure that patients recover faster and experience a natural-feeling knee after surgery.
Dr. Rahul Chauhan, trained through a specialised fellowship in knee and shoulder surgery, brings expertise in modern surgical approaches that prioritise patient comfort, muscle preservation and long-term performance of the implant.
1. Subvastus (Muscle-Sparing) Approach for Faster Recovery
While most knee replacement surgeons use the medial parapatellar approach — which involves cutting through the extensor mechanism (quadriceps tendon) — this method can result in greater postoperative pain and delayed rehabilitation.
At our centre, we routinely use the Subvastus Approach, in which:
- The quadriceps muscle is not cut
- The extensor mechanism is preserved
- The muscle is gently lifted rather than incised
Why it matters for patients:
- Much less postoperative pain
- Earlier walking and independent mobility
- Faster return to strength and daily activities
- Smoother physiotherapy progress
This technique is especially beneficial for elderly patients, high-demand individuals and anyone who wants a quicker and more comfortable recovery.
2. Three-Compartment Knee Replacement for a More Natural Knee
The knee joint has three compartments:
- Patellofemoral — between the kneecap and thigh bone
- Medial tibiofemoral — inner half of the knee
- Lateral tibiofemoral — outer half of the knee
Many surgeons replace only the medial and lateral tibiofemoral compartments. This leaves the patellofemoral compartment untreated.
To provide the best functional outcome, we replace all three compartments in most of our patients.
Advantages for patients:
- More balanced knee movement
- Better kneecap tracking
- Improved comfort during stair climbing and sitting/standing
- Higher long-term satisfaction and a more natural knee feel
Why Our Technique Stands Out
By combining:
- A muscle-sparing Subvastus approach
and - Three-compartment resurfacing.
Our knee replacement focuses not just on pain relief, but on restoring natural knee biomechanics, faster recovery and long-lasting patient comfort.
Who Needs a Total Knee Replacement?
Knee replacement is usually recommended for patients who have:
- Severe knee pain that limits walking or standing
- Difficulty climbing stairs, sitting cross-legged or squatting
- Pain that disturbs sleep or affects daily activities
- Stiffness and swelling not improving with medicines or physiotherapy
- X-ray showing advanced wear and tear (lost joint space / bone-on-bone arthritis)
Most patients who undergo the surgery are above 55 years, but younger patients with severe arthritis may also benefit.
What Happens in Knee Arthritis?
In arthritis, the smooth cartilage covering the bones inside the knee gradually wears away. As the cartilage becomes thinner, bones start rubbing against each other, leading to:
- Pain
- Swelling
- Stiffness
- Deformity and difficulty walking
Over time, even simple movements like walking or getting up from a chair can become difficult.
Pre-surgery workup
Patients requiring knee replacement have to get routine blood investigations done and a pre-anaesthetic checkup is done before admission. All relevant x-rays are performed before admission and accordingly the choice of implant is discussed with the patient.
How Total Knee Replacement Is Performed?
Knee replacement is done under spinal or general anaesthesia.
A simplified overview of the procedure:
- The damaged cartilage and bone are removed from the thigh bone (femur) and shin bone (tibia).
- Smooth artificial surfaces made of metal and high-grade plastic are fitted in their place.
- In some cases, the underside of the kneecap (patella) is also resurfaced.
- The implants are aligned precisely to restore normal knee movement.
- The wound is closed, and dressing is applied.
The artificial joint is designed to move smoothly — just like a natural knee — and to last many years.
Types of Implants
The type of implant is selected based on the patient’s age, bone quality, activity level and deformity. Options include:
- Cruciate retaining
- Posterior stabilized
- Constrained / hinged implants (for severe deformities or weak ligaments)
- Gender-specific designs in selected cases
Your surgeon will recommend the most suitable implant for your knee.
Benefits of Total Knee Replacement
Patients commonly experience:
- Strong reduction in knee pain
- Ability to walk longer distances
- Improved sleep and daily functioning
- Better knee alignment and mobility
- Return to work, exercise and outdoor activities
For many people, knee replacement dramatically improves quality of life.
Recovery after knee replacement
Most patients stand and walk with support within 24 hours of surgery.
Typical recovery timeline:
| Time | Progress |
|---|---|
| 1–2 days | Walking with support |
| 2–3 weeks | Stitches removed / reduced pain |
| 3–6 weeks | Resuming daily routine activities |
| 6–12 weeks | Driving and light exercises |
| 3 months | Comfortable walking without support |
| 6 months | Full functional recovery for most |
Physiotherapy is essential to achieve strength, balance and full knee motion.
How Long Does the Implant Last?
Modern knee implants are designed to last 15–20 years or more, depending on:
- Activity level
- Body weight
- Implant type and quality
- Adherence to physiotherapy and lifestyle recommendations
Cost of total knee replacement?
Although it varies from patient to patient but usually the knee replacement with good imported implant at our center in Meerut costs between 1.5 to 2 lacs. This is very economical as compared to other places nearby.
Key Takeaway
Total Knee Replacement is a trusted and effective solution for severe knee arthritis that no longer responds to medicines or physiotherapy. With the right surgical technique and dedicated rehabilitation, patients can regain pain-free mobility, independence and an active lifestyle.
