Patella Replacement in Chennai

What is Patella Replacement?

Patella Replacement, also known as patellofemoral joint replacement, is a specialized surgical procedure that replaces only the damaged surface of the kneecap (patella) and its corresponding groove in the femur. It is typically recommended for patients with isolated cartilage wear or arthritis affecting the front part of the knee while the rest of the joint remains healthy.

This procedure helps relieve chronic anterior knee pain, improves stability, and restores smooth movement, without replacing the entire knee joint.

When is Patella Replacement recommended?

Patella replacement is recommended for patients who experience:

• Persistent pain behind or around the kneecap, especially when climbing stairs or squatting.
• Advanced cartilage damage limited to the patellofemoral joint.
• Difficulty bending or extending the knee due to stiffness.
• No significant damage in the other compartments of the knee.

It is ideal for middle-aged or active adults whose X-rays or MRI scans confirm isolated degeneration of the kneecap joint.

What are the benefits of Patella Replacement?

This targeted surgical approach offers multiple benefits, including:

• Preservation of natural bone: Only the affected area is replaced, retaining most of the original joint.
• Smaller incision and quicker recovery: Minimally invasive compared to full knee replacement.
• Less pain and improved function: Reduced friction and smooth kneecap tracking.
• Faster rehabilitation: Most patients resume normal walking within weeks.
• Option for future conversion: If arthritis spreads, it can later be converted into a total knee replacement.

How is Patella Replacement performed?

The procedure is performed under spinal or general anesthesia. Through a small incision, the surgeon removes the damaged cartilage beneath the kneecap and resurfaces it with a smooth, dome-shaped implant made of metal and polyethylene. The femoral groove is also resurfaced for seamless movement.

The patella implant is fixed with bone cement to ensure stability. Advanced tools like computer navigation or robotic guidance help achieve precise alignment and improved long-term results.

What is the recovery process like?

Most patients can begin walking with support within 24 hours after surgery. Physiotherapy starts early to regain knee motion, strengthen quadriceps muscles, and ensure smooth kneecap movement.

Pain and swelling usually subside within 2–3 weeks. Patients can return to desk jobs in 4–6 weeks and resume full physical activities, including sports and travel, within 3–4 months depending on their recovery progress.

How long does it take to recover from Patella Replacement?

The typical recovery timeline is:

• Week 1–2: Pain relief and gentle movement begin.
• Week 3–6: Improved mobility and walking without major support.
• Month 3–4: Full range of motion restored and strength regained.
  Physiotherapy and regular follow-ups play a vital role in achieving a smooth, stable, and pain-free knee joint.

Which is the best hospital for Patella Replacement in Chennai?

Shri Bone & Joint Clinic is among the best hospitals for Patella Replacement in Chennai, offering specialized knee preservation and resurfacing surgeries. The clinic features leading Orthopedic Specialists in Chennai with advanced expertise in treating complex knee conditions.

Depending on the severity and type of damage, the team also provides Minimally Invasive Knee Replacement for smaller incisions and faster healing, and Unicondylar Knee Replacement in Chennai for localized arthritis limited to one compartment of the knee.

Who is the best doctor for Patella Replacement in Chennai?

Dr. Shriram Krishnamoorthy, senior orthopedic surgeon at Shri Bone & Joint Clinic, is known for his precision in performing advanced knee surgeries with high patient satisfaction rates. His expertise covers a wide range of procedures including Total Knee Replacement in Chennai, Titanium Knee Replacement in Chennai, and Jiffy Knee Replacement.

He has also performed several Bilateral Knee Replacement in Chennai and Unilateral Knee Replacement in Chennai surgeries, combining advanced techniques and patient-specific implants for faster recovery and long-lasting results.

What is the cost of Patella Replacement in Chennai?

The cost of patella replacement in Chennai varies based on implant quality, hospital facilities, and technology used. Typical estimates are:

• Diagnostics and evaluation: ₹3,000 – ₹8,000
• Standard patella replacement: ₹1.5 – ₹2.5 lakhs
• Titanium or customized implants: ₹2.2 – ₹3.2 lakhs
• Robotic-assisted or computer-guided procedure: ₹2.8 – ₹4.0 lakhs
• Rehabilitation and physiotherapy: ₹15,000 – ₹30,000

Most health insurance plans cover this surgery, including implants and hospitalization. For those seeking enhanced precision and comfort, Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery and Conformis Knee Replacement are available, offering superior customization, natural joint motion, and faster post-surgery recovery.