Living with chronic knee pain can limit mobility and make even simple daily activities challenging. When severe arthritis or joint damage no longer responds to conservative treatments, surgery may be the most effective solution. Choosing the right specialist plays a key role in ensuring safety and long-term success. Consulting an experienced knee replacement surgeon in Chennai helps you receive personalized treatment and expert guidance. With proper care and rehabilitation, you can regain mobility and return to an active, pain-free lifestyle.
Best Knee Replacement Surgeon in Chennai
Choosing an experienced, compassionate surgeon is the first step toward recovery. Here are some of the most respected knee replacement surgeon in Chennai:
Dr. Vijay Kumar Sohanlal
Dr. Vijay Kumar Sohanlal is a highly respected knee replacement surgeon in Chennai with decades of orthopedic experience. He is well-known for his precision in joint replacement surgeries and his ability to handle even the most challenging cases. Patients appreciate his supportive guidance and commitment to helping them return to active, pain-free lives.
- Years of Experience: Over 18+ years
- Qualifications: MBBS, MS (Orthopaedics)
- Address: MGM Healthcare, Mahi Clinic, Chennai – 600030
What Happens During Knee Replacement Surgery?
Knee replacement surgery is a carefully planned and precise procedure that aims to relieve chronic joint pain and restore comfortable movement. Most patients are surprised by how structured the process feels once they enter the operation theatre. Here’s a simple breakdown of what actually happens during the surgery.
- Final Adjustments and Closure: The surgeon tests knee bending and straightening, places a drain if needed, and closes the incision with sutures or staples.
- Pre-Surgical Preparation: The medical team reviews your scans, marks the surgical site, and ensures anesthesia is working effectively.
- Incision and Joint Access: A small incision is made at the front of the knee to gently move muscle and expose the damaged joint surfaces.
- Removal of Damaged Cartilage: The surgeon trims away worn-out cartilage and bone with high-precision instruments used by knee replacement surgeon in Chennai, ensuring the alignment is accurate.
- Placement of Implants: Metal and plastic components are positioned to recreate smooth joint movement, checked carefully for proper fit and stability.
What are the Causes of Knee Pain?
Knee pain can come from everyday strain, sudden injuries, or gradual changes inside the joint. Understanding the root cause helps you know when it’s time to seek expert help from a knee replacement doctor in Chennai.
- Muscle Imbalance: Weak thigh or hip muscles force the knee to overwork, causing chronic discomfort.
- Osteoarthritis: Gradual cartilage wear causes stiffness and pain, especially during walking or climbing stairs.
- Ligament Injuries: A sudden twist or fall can damage the ACL or MCL, leading to swelling and instability.
- Meniscus Tears: Turning while bearing weight can tear the cushioning cartilage, causing sharp pain and locking.
- Tendon Inflammation: Overuse can irritate tendons, often seen in runners or people who carry heavy loads daily.
- Bursitis: Inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs leads to tenderness and swelling around the knee cap.
Knee Replacement Treatment
Knee replacement treatment is recommended when pain becomes a daily barrier and non-surgical options no longer help. Many patients regain independence after receiving guidance from leading knee replacement doctor in Chennai, who focus on precise diagnosis and personalised care.
- Post-Treatment Rehabilitation: Structured exercises restore strength and help patients return to their routine confidently.
- Conservative Management: Pain relievers, physiotherapy, and lifestyle changes to improve joint strength and mobility.
- Injections: Steroid or hyaluronic acid injections reduce inflammation and ease movement temporarily.
- Partial Knee Replacement: Only the damaged portion of the joint is replaced, preserving healthy structures.
- Total Knee Replacement: The entire joint surface is renewed with durable implants designed for smooth functioning.
When Should You Consider Knee Replacement Surgery?
Knee replacement surgery is often recommended when knee pain and mobility issues begin to affect your quality of life. Consulting experienced knee replacement surgeon in Chennai can help determine the right time for surgery based on your condition and symptoms.
- Severe arthritis or joint damage limits daily activities:
When arthritis or injury causes constant pain and restricts basic movements like climbing stairs or standing, knee replacement may be the best option. - Pain persists even after medications, therapy, or injections:
If non-surgical treatments fail to provide relief, it’s a clear sign that surgical intervention might be necessary for lasting comfort. - Stiffness makes walking or bending difficult:
Severe stiffness that restricts your ability to walk, sit, or bend comfortably indicates significant joint damage that may require replacement. - Sleep is disturbed due to knee pain:
Persistent pain that disrupts your sleep and rest can seriously impact health and wellbeing—consult a qualified knee replacement doctor in Chennai to explore the best treatment approach.
How to Choose the Best Knee Replacement Surgeon in Chennai
When selecting a specialist, consider:
- Experience – Years of performing knee replacements
- Facilities – Access to modern surgical technology and rehabilitation care
- Techniques – Minimally invasive or Robotic knee replacement-assisted approaches for faster recovery
- Reputation – Patient reviews and community trust
- Comfort – Feeling heard and supported during consultations
Meeting a knee pain specialist in Chennai for a diagnosis is often the best first step. Open communication helps patients feel secure in their treatment journey.
Risks and Complications Associated with Knee Replacement
Although knee replacement is considered a safe and successful procedure, it’s still important to understand possible risks. Discussing these openly with a knee pain specialist in Chennai helps you make confident, well-informed decisions.
- Persistent Pain: A small percentage of patients may continue to feel discomfort even after the joint is replaced.
- Infection: Though uncommon, infections may occur around the incision or deep within the joint.
- Blood Clots: Blood may pool in the legs after surgery, requiring preventive medications or exercises.
- Stiffness or Limited Movement: Scar tissue or delayed rehabilitation can affect flexibility and bending ability.
- Implant Loosening or Wear: Over many years, implants may wear out, especially in very active individuals.
- Nerve or Vessel Injury: Rarely, surrounding nerves or blood vessels may be affected during the procedure.
Conclusion
Recovery after knee replacement surgery differs for each individual, but most patients typically remain in the hospital for 3–5 days and begin assisted walking soon after the procedure. Structured physiotherapy continues for several weeks to improve strength and flexibility. Noticeable improvements in movement are often seen within 3–6 months. The long-term results include significant pain relief, easier walking, and greater independence in daily activities. With guidance from an experienced knee replacement surgeon in Chennai, patients can regain confidence and enjoy a better quality of life.
Read more: Knee Ligament Surgery
