Knee replacement surgery, also known as knee arthroplasty, is a procedure performed to replace a damaged or worn-out knee joint with an artificial joint.

Here are some signs that might suggest you could benefit from knee replacement surgery:

• persistent chronic knee pain
• reduced ability to perform everyday activities
• diagnosed significant joint damage
• progressive Osteoarthritis or Rheumatoid Arthritis
• joint Instability

It’s important to note that knee replacement surgery is a significant procedure with potential risks and benefits. Your eligibility for surgery will depend on factors such as your overall health, age, the severity of your knee condition, and your surgeon’s assessment.

If you’re experiencing persistent knee pain or any of the symptoms mentioned above, it’s recommended to consult an orthopaedic surgeon. They can assess your condition, review your medical history, and recommend appropriate treatments, which may or may not include knee replacement surgery.

Only you and your doctor can determine the correct course of treatment for your knee pain, and surgery should be the last step. But if severe knee pain continues to affect the activity and quality of your everyday life after trying nonsurgical treatments, knee replacement may be your best solution. The Evolution® medial-pivot knee system delivers superior flexion stability, anatomic motion, and wear–limiting design. The insert design aims to replicate the natural movement and stability of the knee joint. This design concept is intended to closely mimic the biomechanics of a healthy knee joint, potentially offering advantages in terms of functionality and patient satisfaction.

You can read more about why surgeons and patients prefer it here: https://www.microportortho.com/products/knees/primary-total-knee-systems/evolution-knee-systems.

Facing surgery can be daunting, but the Evolution® MP Knee System is designed to reduce recovery time through minimally invasive procedures. And surgeons are empowered to implant Evolution® MP products through quadriceps-sparing techniques that that cut less muscle, helping you get back on your feet faster.

If you and your surgeon decide that total knee replacement is the right path for you, preparation begins with you and at home. A healthier lifestyle can lessen the chance of complications and aid in recovery. Maintaining a well-balanced diet, minimizing behaviors such as smoking and drinking, and beginning a work-out regimen prior to your operation can help prepare your body for surgery. Additionally, there are several things that can be done to prepare your home for life immediately following your knee surgery:

• Arrange your transportation to and from your surgery
• Prepare meals ahead of time to minimize the need for cooking/cleaning
• Place regularly used items at heights that are convenient
• If you plan to use a walker or cane, practice in your home prior to surgery to make sure your home is easily navigated with these aids.
• Place safety railings on stairs, showers, and bathrooms to help you navigate these areas
• Remove loose carpeting, cords, and other tripping hazards
• A stable chair for your early recovery with a firm seat cushion (and a height of 18 to 20 inches), a firm back, two arms, and a footstool for intermittent leg elevation
• Prepare a temporary living area on the same floor, to minimize your need to use stairs

It is important to understand the risks and potential complications involved with your knee replacement. You and your doctor should discuss these risks and how they could potentially affect you. Similarly, you should also discuss your medical history and lifestyle to see what you can do to minimize these risks.

While most knee surgeries are free of complications, risks include blood clots, excessive bleeding, urinary tract infections, damage to bones, nerves or blood vessels, and a weakened or stiff knee. It’s essential to work closely with your surgeon to understand the risks specific to your situation and take steps to minimize them. Your surgeon will evaluate your overall health and medical history to determine whether knee replacement surgery suits you. They will also provide you with pre-operative and post-operative instructions to help reduce the risk of complications and optimize your recovery.

The natural knee has a number of stabilizing structures, most of which are removed during total knee replacement. But MicroPort^® Orthopedics’ medial-pivot knee more closely replicates the knee’s natural anatomy, helping to eliminate the unnatural “sliding” feeling common with other knee implants.

Including flights, the surgery, travel insurance, trains, hotels, and a recuperation period at a spa, each trip can cost you around £8,000. The prices can differ based on factors such as the specific hospital or clinic, the surgeon’s expertise, and any additional services provided.

Yes, it’s often possible to bring a companion or family member with you during medical travel for support. Many medical facilities and healthcare providers in Lithuania recognize the importance of emotional and psychological support for patients, especially when undergoing medical procedures or treatments in unfamiliar environments. Having a companion or family member present can provide comfort, help with communication, and offer practical assistance.

Remember that the policies and regulations surrounding companions during medical travel can change, so it’s essential to communicate directly with your healthcare provider or medical tourism facilitator to get accurate and up-to-date information based on your specific situation. Here are some information that you should remember. Coordinate with the medical facility or your medical tourism facilitator to ensure that appropriate accommodation arrangements can be made for both you and your companion. Many medical facilities have partnerships with nearby hotels or accommodations that cater to patients and their companions. Be aware of any additional costs associated with bringing a companion. This could include accommodation, meals, and transportation expenses. Check with your Also, depending on the treatment, you might need to provide written consent for your companion to be present during certain procedures or consultations. Ensure you clarify this with your healthcare provider.

You might expect a stay of approximately 2 to 6 weeks, depending on your circumstances. It’s important to note that every patient’s situation is unique, and the duration of your stay will depend on factors such as your overall health, the success of your recovery, and the specific recommendations of your healthcare team.

Before the surgery, you might need to arrive a few days or a week earlier. This is for pre-operative evaluations, tests, consultations, and to acclimate to the new environment. The knee joint replacement surgery itself usually takes a few hours. After the surgery, you will spend several days (typically 2 to 4) in the hospital for initial recovery pain management and to ensure you can start moving and walking with assistance. After being discharged from the hospital, you might need to stay in the country for an additional period, ranging from 1 to 2 weeks. During this time, you’ll continue your recovery under medical supervision, attend follow-up appointments, and start physical therapy to regain mobility and strength.

It depends on the type of work that you do. If you have a sedentary job, you can likely return once you feel strong enough. If your job requires you to be on your feet for extended periods of time, though, you may be off as long as 6-8 weeks. Your doctor will also advise you of any restrictions to follow once you return to work.