Hip and knee pain can significantly affect daily activities, making simple movements like walking or climbing stairs difficult. When conservative treatments such as medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes no longer provide relief, surgical intervention may be the best solution. Dr. Shohab Hyder Shaikh, a leading orthopedic surgeon in Karachi, shares expert insights on the most common reasons for hip and knee surgery in Karachi and how these procedures can restore mobility and improve quality of life.
1. Osteoarthritis – The Leading Cause of Joint Surgery
Osteoarthritis is the most common reason for hip and knee replacement surgeries. This degenerative joint disease occurs when the cartilage that cushions the joints wears away, leading to:
- Severe pain and stiffness
- Swelling and inflammation
- Limited mobility and difficulty walking
When osteoarthritis reaches an advanced stage, total hip or knee replacement may be necessary to restore function and reduce pain.
2. Rheumatoid Arthritis and Inflammatory Joint Conditions
Autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis (RA) cause chronic inflammation, leading to joint damage over time. Symptoms include:
- Swollen and painful joints
- Loss of joint flexibility
- Bone erosion and deformity
For patients with severe RA, joint replacement surgery can help relieve pain and restore movement.
3. Hip and Knee Fractures
Hip fractures are more common in elderly individuals, especially those with osteoporosis. A severe hip fracture may require:
- Total or partial hip replacement
- Internal fixation with screws or plates
Knee fractures, often caused by trauma or accidents, may also require surgery to repair damaged bone and restore function.
4. Sports Injuries and Ligament Tears
Athletes and active individuals are prone to ligament tears and cartilage damage in the knee. Common injuries requiring surgery include:
- ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) tears
- Meniscus tears
- Patellar dislocation
Minimally invasive techniques like arthroscopic knee surgery can repair damaged tissues and allow athletes to return to sports faster.
5. Avascular Necrosis (AVN) – Bone Death Due to Poor Blood Supply
Avascular necrosis occurs when blood flow to the hip joint is disrupted, leading to bone deterioration. Causes include:
- Long-term steroid use
- Alcohol abuse
- Trauma or hip dislocation
In advanced cases, total hip replacement is necessary to restore function and prevent further complications.
6. Congenital and Developmental Hip Disorders
Some people are born with hip dysplasia, a condition where the hip joint does not form properly. Over time, this can lead to arthritis and joint instability. Hip replacement surgery can correct the issue and improve mobility.
7. Post-Traumatic Arthritis
After a serious injury or accident, joints may not heal correctly, leading to post-traumatic arthritis. If joint pain and stiffness worsen over time, joint replacement surgery may be required to relieve symptoms.
8. Persistent Joint Pain and Disability
When non-surgical treatments like pain medications, physical therapy, and injections no longer work, hip or knee surgery may be the only way to regain mobility and quality of life.
Dr. Shohab’s Approach to Hip and Knee Surgery
- Minimally invasive techniques for quicker recovery
- Robotic-assisted surgery for precision
- Customized treatment plans based on patient needs
- Comprehensive post-surgical rehabilitation for long-term success
Conclusion
Hip and knee surgeries are life-changing procedures that can relieve pain, improve mobility, and restore independence. If you suffer from chronic joint pain or mobility issues, Dr. Shohab Hyder Shaikh offers advanced treatments to help you regain an active lifestyle.
