
Total knee replacement (TKR) is the gold-standard surgical treatment for advanced, multi-compartment knee arthritis — replacing all damaged joint surfaces with precision-fitted implants to completely eliminate bone-on-bone pain and restore full knee function.
Dr. Harish Talreja is among the most experienced total knee replacement surgeons in Jaipur, with over 10,000 knee replacement procedures performed at Manipal Hospital Jaipur. Widely recognised as one of the leading orthopaedic doctors in Jaipur, he brings advanced surgical techniques, personalised implant selection, and a Day 1 rehabilitation protocol to every TKR patient.
Total knee replacement — also called total knee arthroplasty (TKA) — is a procedure in which all three compartments of the damaged knee are resurfaced. The worn cartilage and bone on the femur (thigh bone), tibia (shin bone), and patella (kneecap) are removed and replaced with implant components made of cobalt-chromium alloy, titanium, and medical-grade polyethylene.
Unlike partial knee replacement which resurfaces only one compartment, TKR addresses the entire joint — making it the appropriate choice for multi-compartment arthritis, significant deformity correction, and cases where the cruciate ligaments are compromised.
The result: smooth joint motion, full weight-bearing capacity, and complete elimination of the bone-on-bone contact that causes severe arthritis pain.
Cobalt-chrome cap resurfacing the end of the femur for smooth, friction-free articulation
Metal tray with polyethylene insert replacing the damaged top surface of the tibia
Polyethylene button resurfacing the back of the kneecap where it contacts the femoral component
High-density plastic insert providing smooth gliding between the metal femoral and tibial components
TKR is specifically recommended for advanced, multi-compartment knee arthritis where pain and disability persist despite thorough non-surgical management over several months.
Severe cartilage loss across more than one knee compartment causes daily bone-on-bone pain and progressive deformity that requires complete joint resurfacing.
Autoimmune inflammatory arthritis progressively destroys cartilage and bone across the entire knee joint — TKR provides lasting pain relief when conservative treatment fails.
Prior knee fractures or complex ligament injuries cause accelerated multi-compartment cartilage deterioration over time, eventually requiring TKR.
Severe bow-leg or knock-knee deformity with advanced arthritis requires total knee replacement — partial replacement cannot adequately correct significant angular deformity.
Patients without adequate relief from physiotherapy, medications, weight management, and corticosteroid or PRP injections over six months or more.
When knee pain consistently prevents walking short distances, climbing stairs, or performing basic daily tasks — significantly impacting quality of life and independence.
Understanding the difference helps patients make an informed decision. Dr. Talreja assesses each case individually using clinical examination and weight-bearing X-rays to recommend the most appropriate option.
For advanced multi-compartment arthritis. All three compartments are fully resurfaced — providing complete, lasting pain relief and deformity correction.
For isolated single-compartment arthritis with intact ligaments, unicondylar (partial) knee replacement may be considered — a less invasive option with faster recovery.
| Factor | Total (TKR) | Partial (UKR) |
|---|---|---|
| Compartments replaced | All three | One only |
| Arthritis extent | Multi-compartment | Single compartment |
| Deformity correction | ✓ Full | ✗ Limited |
| Ligament requirement | Flexible | Intact ACL required |
| Incision size | 8–12 cm | 5–8 cm |
| Hospital stay | 3–5 days | 2–3 days |
| Full recovery | 3–6 months | 6–10 weeks |
| Implant longevity | 15–20+ years | 10–15+ years |
These symptoms suggest advanced knee arthritis needing surgical evaluation. Clinical assessment and X-rays are always required to confirm diagnosis and severity.
Cannot walk more than short distances, climb stairs, or rise from a chair without significant pain.
Unable to fully straighten or bend the knee — worse in the morning or after prolonged sitting.
Chronic swelling that does not settle with rest, ice, elevation, or anti-inflammatory medications.
Worsening bow-leg or knock-knee alignment causing uneven gait and visible angular change over time.
Physiotherapy, medications, bracing and injections tried for 6+ months without adequate improvement.
The procedure takes 1 to 2 hours. Most patients receive spinal anaesthesia and begin walking the same day as surgery.
Weight-bearing X-rays, blood tests and anaesthesia review. Implant sizing and alignment targets are planned pre-operatively.
Spinal anaesthesia preferred for most patients. Tourniquet applied to minimise blood loss. Strict sterile technique maintained throughout.
Precisely measured bone and cartilage removed from femur, tibia and patella. Trial components fitted, alignment confirmed, then permanently fixed with bone cement or press-fit technique.
Wound closed in layers. Physiotherapy — ankle pumps, quad sets and standing — begins on Day 1 post-surgery.
Dr. Talreja selects the most appropriate TKR implant design based on each patient's anatomy, age, activity level and degree of deformity.
Cruciate-retaining design preserving the PCL. The polyethylene insert is fixed. Most widely used — highly durable and well-researched over decades of clinical use.
Cam-and-post mechanism replaces PCL function — indicated when the PCL is absent or compromised, or when significant deformity correction is needed.
Polyethylene insert rotates within the tibial tray to better mimic natural knee kinematics — may reduce wear in younger, more active patients.
Advanced highly cross-linked polyethylene with enhanced wear resistance — extends implant lifespan, particularly beneficial for younger and more active patients.
Physiotherapy starting on Day 1 post-surgery is the cornerstone of successful TKR recovery. Consistent adherence to the rehabilitation plan is the most important factor for the best long-term outcome.
Most patients stand and walk short distances with a walker on Day 1. Physiotherapy exercises — ankle pumps and quad sets — begin immediately.
Discharged within 3–5 days. Swelling reduces gradually. Physiotherapy exercises continue at home with increasing frequency and range.
Most patients walk independently without walker or crutches. Driving typically resumes between 4–8 weeks depending on operated side.
Return to office work, light household tasks and social activities. Stair climbing becomes comfortable. Strength continues to build.
Majority of patients achieve full functional recovery. Walking endurance, strength and confidence continue improving up to 12 months.
TKR has over 95% patient satisfaction in published long-term studies. As with all major surgery, potential risks exist. Dr. Talreja discusses these in full during consultation so patients make a fully informed decision.
Blood-thinning medication and Day 1 mobilisation significantly reduce this risk. Compression stockings used routinely.
Prophylactic antibiotics given pre-operatively. Strict sterile technique maintained. Deep infection rate is less than 1% in experienced hands.
Modern implants engineered for decades of durability. Healthy weight and following activity guidelines extends implant life significantly.
Diligent early physiotherapy is essential. Full compliance with the rehabilitation programme consistently produces the best range of motion outcomes.
With 10,000+ knee replacement procedures and 15+ years of dedicated orthopaedic practice, Dr. Harish Talreja delivers exceptional TKR outcomes through precision surgical planning, advanced implant selection, and a genuine commitment to patient-centred care.
Knee Replacements Performed
Years Orthopaedic Experience
Walking After Surgery
Consult Dr. Harish Talreja for an accurate diagnosis, personalised TKR plan, and a clear path to a pain-free, active life.
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