Knee replacement surgery offers 60 elderly patients a new lease on life

One of the most common afflictions among the elderly, knee osteoarthritis affects at least 10 per cent of the Thai population and is today also being found in younger patients. Knee replacement surgery is the only viable solution for many of these cases but at prices that range from Bt40,000 to Bt500,000 or more is out of reach to all but the well-heeled.
 But there is good news at hand for 60 arthritis sufferers as the Joint Replacement Centre at Bumrungrad Hospital Foundation has chosen to mark the 60th birthday of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn by offering free knee replacement surgery.
The free surgery will be conducted on 60 elderly Thais using computer-based and robotic arm technology and will also cover both the pre- and post-operative processes.
The computer-assisted surgery, navigation system and robotic-assisted surgery ensures precision of the placement, reduction of improper joint alignment and better longevity of the replacement. The technological support also helps reduce pain during the post-operative period and a speedy recovery during rehabilitation.
Dr Chumroonkiet Leelasestaporn, the director of Joint Replacement Centre, and chair of the Joint Replacement project, says the precision and navigation afforded by the computer considerably lowers the risk of problems with small pieces of bone and tissue.
The project also includes a campaign to create awareness of preventive measures we can all incorporate into our daily lives to delay the deterioration of the all-important knee joint. This is seen as particularly important in light of the significant increase in the number of knee osteoarthritis patients seen by the Centre, which rose by a massive 89 per cent between 2013 and 2015 and is showing no sign of abating.
While some degree of osteoarthritis is inevitable as we age, doctors are increasingly worried by the prevalence of the disease among younger people. Causes include injury and infection, being overweight, eating junkfood and the sedentary lifestyle, which sees many sitting for long periods at work. Even crossing the knees plays a role in hastening the disease.
Osteoarthritis of the knee occurs when the cartilage that serves as a cushioning between joints wears away. When the cushion is narrowed down, the bones of the joints rub more against one another, leading to pain, swelling and stiffness. The decrease of cartilage can be seen through x-rays and MRI scanning.
Treatment depends on the condition, but in general, losing weight to decrease the knees’ weight-carrying burden, proper exercise to create muscles around the knee so as to share that burden, and taking pain-relief drugs have some effect.
However, when the condition becomes too painful and prevents the patient from leading a normal life, joint replacement is usually the only option. After the surgery, the patient will be able to work normally and take some exercise, though jogging is strictly not permitted.
The project has been operational since 2015 and 38 patients have so far been treated.
Criteria for participation in the project include being between are 60-75 years old and having attempted to improve osteoarthritis for at least six months through non-operative methods but without any result. The project is open to low-income Thais only and applications are being accepted through May 31.
To find out more, contact the Joint Replacement Centre, Bumrungrad Hospital at 02 667 2000 or check out www.Bumrungrad.com.