Who is the Most Suitable Candidate for Knee Replacement Surgery?
The most suitable candidates for knee replacement surgery are patients who suffer from severe knee pain and are unable to perform daily activities (such as walking, climbing stairs) because of this pain. Generally, people whose knee joints have been severely damaged due to conditions like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis are evaluated for this operation. Candidates are expected to be in a general health condition that can withstand the surgery, to be able to comply with the post-operative rehabilitation program, and to not have benefited from alternative treatment methods.
What is a Single Knee Replacement Surgery?
Single knee replacement surgery is the replacement of only a damaged part of the knee joint, usually the inner or outer part, with a prosthesis. This surgery is preferred if the damage to the knee has not spread to the entire joint. Single knee replacement surgery is a less invasive procedure than a total knee replacement. The surgery duration is shorter, the hospital stay is generally shorter, and the recovery process is faster.
What is a Double Knee Replacement Surgery?
Double knee replacement surgery is the replacement of both knees at the same time or at different times. It is generally preferred for patients who have advanced arthritis or similar problems in both knees. Double knee surgery performed in a single session can offer a faster recovery process, but it requires a more careful evaluation due to factors such as blood loss and anesthesia risk.
Is Double Knee Surgery Riskier Than Single Knee Surgery?
Double knee replacement surgery can carry some additional risks compared to single knee surgery. These risks include greater blood loss, longer surgery time, and complications related to anesthesia. However, with the development of modern surgical techniques and blood transfusion methods, these risks have been minimized. Your surgeon will evaluate the condition of both knees and your overall health profile to determine the safest surgical plan for you.
Why is Turkey Preferred for Knee Replacement Surgery?
Turkey is frequently preferred by international patients for knee replacement surgery due to the high-quality services and affordable prices it offers. Hospitals in Turkey have state-of-the-art equipment, and surgeons have been trained according to international standards. In addition, the favorable exchange rate also reduces the cost of side services such as accommodation and transportation.
What is the Average Cost of the Surgery in Turkey?
The average cost of knee replacement surgery in Turkey can vary greatly depending on whether the surgery is a single or double knee replacement, the brand of the prosthesis to be used, the quality of the hospital, and the experience of the surgeon. In general, the costs are significantly lower than in Western European countries. This pricing usually includes services such as the surgery, hospital stay, medications, and physiotherapy.
How Experienced Are the Hospitals and Surgeons in Turkey?
Turkey has become a global center for health tourism and therefore has highly experienced surgeons and hospitals in the field of knee replacement surgery. Many Turkish surgeons have received international training and closely follow developments in this field. The high number of patients continuously increases the experience of the surgeons, which directly affects the success rate of the surgery and patient safety.
What is the Level of Pain After the Surgery?
It is normal to feel intense pain after knee replacement surgery, especially in the first few days. However, this pain can be effectively managed with modern painkillers and pain control methods. Your pain will be regularly monitored during your hospital stay. Generally, the pain significantly decreases within a few weeks, and dependence on pain medication decreases.
How Long Do I Need to Stay in the Hospital After the Surgery?
The hospital stay after knee replacement surgery is usually between 3 and 5 days. This period may be slightly longer for double knee replacement surgery. During your hospital stay, your pain will be managed, your first movements and walking attempts will be made with the help of a physical therapist.
How Long Does Full Recovery Take?
The full recovery process after knee replacement surgery varies from person to person, but it is generally expected to take between 3 and 6 months. While the first few weeks focus on basic movements, more complex and challenging activities are transitioned to in the following months. A complete return to a normal lifestyle is possible with regular physical therapy and adherence to your doctor’s instructions.
What is the Success Rate of Knee Replacement Surgery?
Knee replacement surgery is considered one of the most successful surgical operations in modern medicine. With the right patient selection and an experienced surgeon, the success rate is over 95%. The surgery allows patients to get rid of their pain, increase their mobility, and significantly improve their quality of life.
Why is Physical Therapy Important?
Physical therapy is the most critical part of the recovery process after knee replacement surgery. Your physical therapist will determine specific exercises to increase the range of motion of the new knee joint, strengthen the surrounding muscles, and re-learn the correct walking pattern. Regular physical therapy sessions directly affect the success of the surgery and extend the life of the prosthesis.
When Can I Take a Bath or Shower After the Surgery?
It is recommended to avoid showering for the first few days after the surgery. Generally, you can take a shower with your doctor’s approval after the surgical incision has completely closed (approximately 10-14 days later). However, taking a bath, which means getting into the tub, is not recommended for the first 6 weeks or longer as it can increase the risk of infection. It is important to keep the wound area dry and clean.
When Can I Return to Work After the Surgery?
The duration of your return to work depends on the type of work you do. If you work in an office job, you can return to work within 2 to 4 weeks after the surgery. If you work in a physically demanding job, you may need to wait until the full recovery process (3-6 months) is complete. Your surgeon will guide you on when you can safely return to your job.
Are There Risks of Complications After the Surgery?
As with any surgical operation, knee replacement surgery has some risks. These risks include infection, blood clot formation (deep vein thrombosis), nerve damage, and prosthesis loosening. However, with modern surgical techniques and the precautions taken by hospitals, these risks are quite low.
What is the Lifespan of the Prosthesis?
Knee prostheses have become increasingly durable with the development of technology. The lifespan of modern prostheses used today is generally 15-20 years or more. The life of the prosthesis can vary depending on the patient’s age, activity level, and the quality of the prosthesis material. To ensure a long-lasting prosthesis, it is very important to follow the surgeon’s advice.
What Exercises Can Be Done After the Surgery?
In the first few weeks after the surgery, you will start with light exercises. Under the guidance of your physical therapist, you will gradually move on to exercises that strengthen the muscles around the knee. Low-impact sports such as swimming, cycling, and walking can be started within 3-6 months after the surgery. It is recommended to avoid sports that put excessive load on the body.
How is Stair Usage After the Surgery?
Learning to use stairs after the surgery is usually done with your physical therapist before you are discharged from the hospital. Initially, you will use a crutch or hold on to the railing, moving one step at a time. Generally, you can start using stairs more comfortably within the first 2 weeks. Climbing stairs completely safely and without assistance can take a few months.
What Documents Are Required for Surgery in Turkey?
To have knee replacement surgery in Turkey, you generally need documents such as a valid passport, reports showing your medical history, and test results. The visa situation may vary depending on your country of origin. Before your trip, the hospital or intermediary agency where the surgery will be performed will provide you with detailed information about all the necessary documents.
What Sports Can I Return to After the Surgery?
After knee replacement surgery, low-impact sports such as swimming, walking, cycling, and golf are recommended. High-impact sports like football, basketball, and running, which put a lot of stress on the joints, are not recommended as they can shorten the life of the prosthesis. You should talk to your doctor about returning to your old sports habits after the surgery.
How is the Prosthesis Selected?
Prosthesis selection is based on the patient’s age, bone quality, lifestyle, and the surgeon’s preference. Prostheses are usually made of materials such as metal, ceramic, or polyethylene. More durable prostheses may be preferred for young and active patients, while different materials may be chosen for older patients. Your doctor will determine the most suitable prosthesis for you.
How is Anesthesia Applied During the Surgery?
Knee replacement surgery is generally performed under general anesthesia, which means the patient is completely put to sleep. In some cases, spinal (from the spinal cord) anesthesia may be preferred. With this type of anesthesia, the patient remains awake, but the area from the waist down is numbed. Which anesthesia method will be used is determined by the patient’s health status and the surgeon’s decision.
When Can I Resume Sexual Activity After the Surgery?
The process of returning to sexual activity varies from person to person, but it is generally possible 4 to 6 weeks after the surgery. The important thing is that your pain has decreased and you choose positions that do not strain your new prosthesis. Your doctor will give you specific advice on this matter.
How Can I Increase the Success of the Surgery?
The most important steps to increase the success of the surgery are to strictly follow all the instructions of your doctor and physical therapist. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, avoiding smoking and alcohol, and controlling your weight also speed up the recovery process and extend the life of the prosthesis.
How is Wound Care Done After the Surgery?
Post-operative wound care is vital to prevent infection. Your wound will be covered with a sterile dressing while you are in the hospital. After you are discharged, you must also be careful to keep the wound dry and clean. You should change the dressings according to your doctor’s instructions and prevent the wound from getting wet until the stitches are removed.
What is the Pre-operative Preparation Process Like?
The pre-operative preparation process ensures that the patient is best prepared for the surgery. During this process, you will receive information from your doctor and nurses about what you need to pay attention to after the surgery. Stopping the use of blood thinners, quitting smoking and alcohol, and controlling any additional diseases are important steps in this process.
When Can I Walk Again After the Surgery?
Getting up and walking after the surgery is one of the first and most important steps of the recovery process. Most patients start walking with a walker or crutches with the help of a physical therapist on the day after the surgery. This early mobility increases blood circulation, reduces the risk of clots, and helps the muscles to work again.
What is the Legal Status of Health Tourism in Turkey?
Health tourism in Turkey is strictly regulated by legal regulations by the Ministry of Health. Foreign patients who come to Turkey for aesthetic or medical operations are under legal protection. Hospitals with international accreditations and expert surgeons offer a safe and high-quality service to patients.
What Should I Pay Attention to After the Surgery?
The most important rules to pay attention to after knee replacement surgery include not bending your knee too much and avoiding movements that will put excessive load on your prosthesis. You should stay away from high or low seating areas and use auxiliary equipment when getting up and sitting down. Your doctor will give you all the necessary instructions to protect your prosthesis.
Will I Need a Helper at Home After the Surgery?
Having someone to help you at home for the first few weeks after the surgery will facilitate the recovery process. Daily tasks such as preparing meals, shopping, and cleaning can be difficult at first. You can gain independence more quickly by organizing your home environment.
What Should My Sleeping Position Be After the Surgery?
Your sleeping position after the surgery should be determined according to your doctor’s advice. Generally, it is recommended to lie on your back and place a pillow between your legs for the first few months. This position helps prevent the prosthesis from dislocating. It is usually not advisable to lie on the operated side for the first few months.
What is My Chance of Having Knee Problems Again?
The chance of having knee problems again after knee replacement surgery is low. However, the prosthesis may wear out over time, or some complications (such as loosening) may occur. For this reason, it is important to go for regular doctor check-ups, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and follow sports rules.
What are the Additional Services for Patients from Abroad?
Clinics in Turkey offer various additional services to facilitate the treatment process for patients from abroad. These may include airport transfers, accommodation arrangements, interpreting services, visa consultancy, and follow-up on post-operative check-ups. These services ensure that patients feel safe and comfortable.
How Do I Choose the Right Hospital for the Surgery?
Choosing the right hospital is critically important for the success of the surgery. You should research whether the hospital has international accreditations, the experience and references of the surgeon and their team in knee replacement surgery, the technological equipment used, and the hospital’s hygiene standards. It can also be beneficial to get support from a reliable health tourism consultant.
