India witnesses close to 1,50,000 knee replacement surgeries annually, a mindboggling figure that reflects the prevalence of debilitating knee arthritis. Earlier, this process meant spending days in the hospital, dealing with anxiety, and slowly regaining mobility. However, the orthopedic universe is changing in remarkable ways. Imagine having a total or partial knee replacement and being able to walk painlessly just hours after, able to go home the next day. This isn't a futuristic vision; it's the reality of single-day arthroplasty. (surgical reconstruction or replacement of a damaged joint, like a hip or knee).
Dr. Rohan Dessai has been a trailblazer in introducing single-day arthroplasty in India and Goa, consistently offering this advanced procedure for the past four years. This innovative approach to total and partial knee replacements has transformed the patient experience by significantly reducing hospital stays while ensuring a swift and safe recovery without compromising outcomes.
The process is meticulously planned; patients are admitted on the morning of their scheduled surgery. Following the successful completion of a single total knee or partial knee replacement procedure, the focus immediately shifts to recovery and mobilisation. Within three to four hours post-surgery, patients are encouraged and assisted to get out of bed and walk. Modern pain management protocols ensure this crucial step is undertaken comfortably and free of significant pain.
This ability to mobilise quickly is central to the idea. It minimises the hazards of long bed rest, increases the confidence of the patient, and starts the rehabilitation process almost from the very beginning. But, of course, the journey doesn’t end with discharge. Patients are advised to maintain a structured, home-based physiotherapy programme over the subsequent three to four weeks. This phase is vital to help you regain strength and flexibility and to reap the full rewards of your new joint.
The concept of single-day arthroplasty extends beyond early discharge; referred to as 'the entire surgical journey as an optimisation - perioperative care and minimally intrusive surgery leading to rapid recovery. It alleviates the psychological stress of a lengthy hospital stay, possibly decreases the chances of a hospital-acquired infection, and enables patients to recuperate in the comfort and familiarity of their home. With this extraordinary development, we are progressing to a closer, efficient, and patient-focused orthopedic treatment that allows patients to take back their mobility and restore their quality time sooner than ever.
(The author is a Consultant - Hip & Knee Replacement Surgeon Orthopaedic, Manipal Hospital, Goa).
