Total Knee Replacement (TKR)
A procedure that replaces a worn or damaged knee joint with an artificial one to restore movement and relieve pain.
What is Total Knee Replacement (TKR)?
Total knee replacement involves removing the damaged surfaces of your knee joint, usually worn down by arthritis or injury, and replacing them with smooth, durable artificial components made of metal and medical-grade plastic. These components recreate the natural gliding motion of a healthy knee. The surgery is performed under general or spinal anaesthesia and typically takes one to two hours. Your surgeon reshapes the ends of the thigh bone and shin bone, then fits the artificial joint components so they move together naturally, often with a plastic spacer between them to allow smooth motion. Many hospitals now use advanced surgical techniques, including computer-assisted or robotic-guided approaches, to improve the precision of implant positioning.
Why is this procedure performed?
- Severe knee pain that limits everyday activities like walking, climbing stairs, or getting up from a chair
- Advanced osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis that has worn away the knee's natural cartilage
- Knee stiffness or swelling that has not improved with medication, injections, or physiotherapy
- Visible knee deformity, such as the leg bowing inward or outward
- Pain that continues even while resting or sleeping
- Reduced quality of life due to chronic knee pain affecting mobility and independence
How does this procedure help?
Most people experience significant pain relief and a marked improvement in mobility within weeks of surgery. With guided physiotherapy, many patients are walking with support within a day or two and can resume most normal activities within six to twelve weeks. Long term, a well-functioning knee replacement can last fifteen to twenty years or more, allowing you to return to activities like walking, swimming, and light recreational sport with far greater comfort than before surgery.
How quickly can this be arranged in India?
Typical timeline in India
2–3 weeks
Compared to Canada / USA
75–85% faster
Cost savings vs. Canada / USA
70–85% less
Context
Orthopaedic procedures such as knee and hip replacement have average wait times of 12–24 months in Canada. In India, the same procedures are typically scheduled within 2–3 weeks.
Timeline data based on publicly available data from the Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI) and NHS/Commonwealth Fund comparative studies. Cost estimates based on publicly available medical tourism cost comparisons, including Patients Beyond Borders. Actual costs vary by hospital and case complexity and are confirmed during your clinical assessment.
How does Medicay Global help?
We coordinate access to this procedure through our vetted hospital network in India, handling everything non-clinical along the way. Your Personal Medical Representative manages scheduling, logistics, and communication on your behalf, so you can focus on your health. Medicay Global coordinates access — all clinical decisions are made by licensed physicians.
Request a Free ConsultationRelated procedures
Orthopaedic Surgery
Partial Knee Replacement
A procedure that replaces only the damaged portion of the knee joint, preserving healthy bone and ligaments.
Orthopaedic Surgery
Hip Replacement
A procedure that replaces a damaged hip joint with an artificial one to relieve pain and restore mobility.
Orthopaedic Surgery
Shoulder Replacement & Reconstruction
A procedure that replaces or rebuilds a damaged shoulder joint to relieve pain and restore movement.
Orthopaedic Surgery
ACL Reconstruction
A procedure that rebuilds a torn ligament in your knee to restore stability and support an active lifestyle.