Quick answer:
Total knee replacement (TKR) replaces all the worn surfaces of the knee joint with smooth metal and plastic parts. It is done when arthritis has damaged the whole knee and pain makes daily life hard. Most people walk with support within a day or two, go home after a few days, and keep improving over the next few months with daily exercises.
Dr. Praful Kilaru
Yashoda Hospitals, Malakpet, Hyderabad
Usually about 1 to 2 hours
Usually a few days
What Is Total Knee Replacement?
In total knee replacement, the surgeon replaces the worn surfaces of all three parts of the knee joint: the end of the thigh bone, the top of the shin bone and, if needed, the back of the kneecap. Thin metal caps cover the bone ends, and a smooth plastic piece sits between them like a cushion.
It is called "total" because all the joint surfaces are replaced. When only one part of the knee is damaged, a partial knee replacement may be enough instead. You can compare the different types on our main knee replacement surgery in Hyderabad page.
Despite the name, the whole knee is not removed. Only a thin layer of damaged bone and cartilage is taken away, and the muscles and most ligaments stay in place.
Watch: Dr. Praful Kilaru Explains Robotic Knee Surgery
In this Yashoda Hospitals Health Talk, Dr. Praful Kilaru explains knee arthritis, the treatments tried before surgery, when knee replacement becomes necessary and how robotic assistance is used during the operation.
Robotic assistance is a tool that helps the surgeon plan and position the implant. It is not needed for every patient, and recovery and results vary from person to person. Your surgeon will explain whether it suits your knee.
When Is Total Knee Replacement Needed?
Total knee replacement is usually suggested when arthritis has damaged the whole knee and simpler treatments have stopped working. Signs that you may need it include:
How Should You Prepare for Total Knee Replacement?
Good preparation makes surgery safer and recovery smoother. Before your operation:
What Happens on the Day of Surgery?
Here is what usually happens on the day of your total knee replacement, step by step.
Getting ready
You come to hospital without eating, as advised. The team checks your details, marks the correct knee and answers your questions.
Anaesthesia
The anaesthetist gives you anaesthesia so you feel no pain. Often this is a spinal injection that numbs the lower body, sometimes with medicine to make you sleepy.
Removing the damaged surfaces
The surgeon makes a cut over the knee and carefully removes the worn cartilage and a thin layer of bone.
Fitting the implants
Metal parts are fixed to the thigh bone and shin bone, and a plastic piece is placed between them. The surgeon checks that the knee bends, straightens and stays stable.
Closing and waking up
The wound is closed and a dressing is applied. You are moved to the recovery area and then to your room. The operation usually takes about one to two hours.
What Happens in Hospital After Surgery?
The first few days are about controlling pain, preventing problems and getting you moving.
Total Knee Replacement Recovery Timeline
Everyone heals at a different speed, but this table shows what recovery usually looks like.
Time after surgery
What usually happens
Day 1 to 3
Standing and walking a few steps with a walker
Weeks 1 to 2
Walking at home with support, wound healing, daily exercises
Weeks 3 to 6
Walking further, less support needed, knee bends more
Weeks 6 to 12
Most daily activities become easier; driving may be allowed when safe
3 to 12 months
Strength, balance and movement keep improving
Swelling and some stiffness can last for a few months. This is normal and slowly gets better.
Why Is Physiotherapy So Important?
Physiotherapy is the key to a good result. The new knee works well only when the muscles around it are strong and the knee bends properly.
Learn more about our physiotherapy and rehabilitation support.
Life After Total Knee Replacement
After recovery, most people can walk comfortably, climb stairs, travel and enjoy light activities with much less pain than before.
How Long Does a Total Knee Replacement Last?
Many total knee replacements keep working well for 15 to 20 years or more. How long yours lasts depends on your weight, how active you are, your bone health and how well you look after it. If an implant wears out or loosens after many years, a second operation called knee revision surgery may be needed.
What Are the Risks of Total Knee Replacement?
Total knee replacement is a common operation, and most people do well. Still, like any surgery, it has risks:
Contact your doctor quickly if you notice any of these after surgery:
Why Choose Dr. Praful Kilaru for Total Knee Replacement in Hyderabad?
Dr. Praful Kilaru is a Senior Consultant Joint Replacement and Complex Trauma Surgeon at Yashoda Hospitals, Malakpet, Hyderabad, with 18 years of orthopaedic experience. His qualifications include MBBS, MS (Orthopaedics) and AO Trauma Fellowship, Davos.
At your consultation, he will examine your knee, review your X-rays, explain whether total knee replacement is right for you, and talk you through the operation, recovery and risks. For details on pricing and insurance, see our knee replacement cost in Hyderabad guide.
Frequently Asked Questions About Total Knee Replacement
How long does total knee replacement surgery take?
The operation usually takes about one to two hours. You will spend extra time in the preparation and recovery areas.
How many days will I stay in hospital?
Most people stay a few days and go home once they can walk safely with a walker or stick.
When can I walk after total knee replacement?
Most people stand and walk with support within a day or two after surgery.
When can I climb stairs?
Many people practise stairs with the physiotherapist before going home and get more confident over the following weeks.
When can I drive after surgery?
Often after about 6 weeks, once you can bend the knee well, react quickly and are off strong pain medicines. Your surgeon will tell you when it is safe.
When can I go back to work?
Desk work may be possible after about 4 to 6 weeks. Jobs with a lot of standing or lifting usually need longer.
Will my knee feel normal again?
Most people have much less pain and walk better. The new knee may feel a little different, and some clicking or numbness near the scar is common.
Can I sit on the floor after total knee replacement?
Sitting on the floor, deep squatting and sitting cross-legged can be hard and may not be advised. Discuss your daily needs with your surgeon before surgery.
How long will the swelling last?
Some swelling is normal for a few weeks to a few months. Ice, raising the leg and exercises help it settle.
What should I avoid after total knee replacement?
Avoid falls, running, jumping and heavy contact sports. Keep a healthy weight and follow your exercise plan.
