Medically Reviewed by: Dr. Omer Sheriff, MBBS, MS (Orthopaedics), Fellowship in Joint Replacement
Years of Experience: 24+ Years
Last Reviewed: October 2026
Joint pain can gradually affect walking, climbing stairs, getting up from a chair and carrying out everyday activities. When joint damage becomes severe, even simple movements may cause persistent discomfort or stiffness. Joint replacement surgery is one treatment option for selected patients whose symptoms continue despite appropriate non-surgical care.
If you are researching a joint replacement surgeon in Chennai, understanding the cause of your symptoms, the available treatments and the possible benefits and risks of surgery can help you prepare for a consultation.
What is Joint Replacement Surgery?
Joint replacement surgery, also called arthroplasty, involves replacing damaged joint surfaces with artificial components known as implants. It is commonly performed on the hip and knee, although replacement procedures are also available for certain other joints.
The procedure may be considered when arthritis, injury or another joint condition causes substantial pain and limits daily activities. The decision depends on the extent of joint damage, symptoms, general health, medical history and response to other treatments.
Joint replacement is not necessary for everyone with joint pain. A clinical assessment is required to determine whether surgery is appropriate.
When May Joint Replacement Be Considered?
A doctor may discuss joint replacement when one or more of the following apply:
- Persistent joint pain that affects walking, sleeping or everyday activities.
- Osteoarthritis or another condition that has significantly damaged the joint.
- Stiffness or restricted movement that interferes with normal function.
- Difficulty walking or bearing weight because of joint problems.
- Limited improvement after suitable treatments such as medication, physiotherapy or activity modification.
The presence of these symptoms does not automatically mean that surgery is required. The decision should follow an individual assessment and a discussion of the available options.
Types of Joint Replacement Surgery
The type of procedure depends on which joint is affected and how much damage is present.
1. Total Knee Replacement
Total knee replacement involves replacing the damaged joint surfaces of the knee with artificial components. It may be considered for advanced knee arthritis when pain and restricted movement continue to affect daily life despite non-surgical treatment.
2. Partial Knee Replacement
Partial knee replacement replaces only the affected compartment of the knee while preserving the remaining parts of the joint. It may be suitable for selected patients whose damage is limited to one compartment and whose other joint structures meet the necessary clinical criteria.
3. Total Hip Replacement
Total hip replacement replaces the damaged parts of the hip joint with artificial components. It may be considered for conditions such as advanced hip osteoarthritis, certain fractures or other causes of substantial joint damage.
4. Revision Joint Replacement
Revision surgery involves replacing or correcting some or all of a previous joint replacement. It may be required because of problems such as implant loosening, wear, infection, instability or other complications. The assessment and planning may be more complex than for an initial replacement.
5. Robotic-Assisted Joint Replacement
Robotic-assisted systems may help the surgical team plan and carry out selected steps of a joint replacement procedure. Their use depends on the patient’s condition, the joint involved, the available equipment and the surgeon’s assessment. Robotic assistance does not guarantee a particular outcome and may not be suitable for every patient.
How is the Need for Surgery Assessed?
Before recommending joint replacement, the orthopaedic surgeon reviews the patient’s symptoms, medical history and functional limitations. The assessment may include:
- Clinical examination: Checking joint movement, tenderness, stability, alignment and walking pattern.
- Imaging: X-rays are commonly used to assess joint changes. Other imaging tests may be considered when clinically indicated.
- Medical history: Reviewing previous treatments, operations, allergies and existing health conditions.
- General health assessment: Identifying factors that may affect anaesthesia, surgery or recovery.
- Treatment discussion: Explaining non-surgical options, the possible benefits and risks of surgery, and expected rehabilitation.
Patients should share details of their current medicines and any conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease or a history of blood clots.
Non-Surgical Treatments Before Joint Replacement
Depending on the diagnosis and severity of symptoms, treatment may begin with non-surgical measures. These can include physiotherapy, suitable exercises, activity modification, weight management where appropriate and medicines prescribed by a healthcare professional.
Some patients may also be considered for injections, depending on the underlying condition and individual circumstances. The benefits and limitations of each option should be discussed with the treating doctor.
If symptoms remain severe and imaging shows substantial joint damage, the surgeon may discuss whether joint replacement is a reasonable option. Patients should not stop prescribed medicines or begin a new exercise programme without advice suited to their condition.
Preparing for Joint Replacement Surgery
Preparation helps the medical team identify potential risks and plan postoperative support. Depending on the patient’s health, preparation may involve:
- Completing the recommended medical investigations and pre-anaesthetic assessment.
- Reviewing prescribed medicines with the treating team, particularly blood thinners and diabetes medicines.
- Managing existing health conditions as advised.
- Following instructions about food, fluids and medicines before surgery.
- Arranging support at home, transport and assistance with daily tasks during the initial recovery period.
- Discussing rehabilitation, mobility aids and follow-up appointments.
Do not stop or change any medication independently. Follow the specific instructions provided by the treating team.
Possible Risks and Complications
Joint replacement is a major surgical procedure. Although it may help selected patients with severe joint disease, it carries potential risks. These include:
- Infection around the surgical site or implant.
- Blood clots in the legs or lungs.
- Bleeding or problems related to anaesthesia.
- Stiffness, persistent pain or difficulty regaining movement.
- Injury to nearby nerves or blood vessels.
- Dislocation, instability, implant wear or loosening.
- The possible need for further surgery.
Individual risk varies with general health, the affected joint, the type of procedure and other factors. The surgeon and anaesthesia team should explain the risks relevant to each patient before surgery.
Recovery and Rehabilitation After Joint Replacement
Recovery varies according to the joint replaced, the procedure, general health and progress with rehabilitation. Some patients begin supervised movement or walking with assistance soon after surgery, when medically appropriate.
The recovery plan may include pain management, wound care, physiotherapy, exercises and gradual increases in activity. Follow-up appointments allow the treating team to review healing, movement and any concerns.
Patients should follow their individual rehabilitation instructions rather than comparing their progress with someone else’s. New or worsening pain, wound discharge, fever or increasing swelling should be reported to the healthcare team. Sudden breathlessness or chest pain after surgery requires emergency medical attention.
How Long Can a Joint Replacement Implant Last?
Implant longevity varies. It can be influenced by factors such as the type of implant, surgical factors, activity level, body weight, general health and the development of complications. An artificial joint may function for many years, but no specific lifespan can be guaranteed for an individual patient.
Routine follow-up and adherence to medical advice are important. Patients should seek assessment if they develop new pain, swelling, instability or a change in joint function after recovery.
About Dr. Omer Sheriff
Dr. Omer Sheriff is an orthopaedic surgeon in Chennai with qualifications in MBBS, MS (Orthopaedics) and a Fellowship in Joint Replacement, as listed on his professional website. His clinical interests include knee and hip conditions, joint replacement procedures, arthroscopy, sports-related injuries and other orthopaedic conditions.
Patients looking for a joint replacement surgeon in Chennai can consult an orthopaedic surgeon to understand the cause of their joint symptoms, the available treatment options and whether joint replacement may be appropriate. The treatment plan depends on the patient’s diagnosis, the extent of joint damage, general health and response to previous treatment.
Consultation Locations in Chennai
Dr. Omer Sheriff consults at different hospitals in Chennai. He does not operate a separate clinic or hospital under his own name. Patients should confirm appointment availability, consultation timings and the relevant hospital location before visiting.
Arthroplasty Doctor in Nungambakkam
Patients searching for an arthroplasty doctor in Nungambakkam can enquire about consultation availability with Dr. Omer Sheriff at Vinita Hospital, No. 70, Josier Street, Tirumurthy Nagar, Nungambakkam, Chennai – 600034. Arthroplasty consultation may involve assessment of hip or knee joint problems and discussion of suitable surgical or non-surgical options, depending on the diagnosis.
Arthroplasty Doctor in T. Nagar
People looking for an arthroplasty doctor in T. Nagar can check the availability of consultations with Dr. Omer Sheriff at Dr. Humayun Speciality Hospital, 10 (53), Chevalier Sivaji Ganesan Salai, S. Boag Road, T. Nagar, Chennai – 600017. Patients can discuss persistent joint pain, mobility difficulties and whether further assessment for joint replacement is necessary.
Arthroplasty Doctor in Royapettah
Patients searching for an arthroplasty doctor in Royapettah can enquire about appointments with Dr. Omer Sheriff at Orthomed Hospital, New No. 85, Royapettah High Road, Royapettah, Chennai – 600014. A consultation may include a review of symptoms, previous treatment, relevant investigations and the potential benefits and risks of available treatment options.
The appropriate treatment differs from patient to patient. Joint replacement is not required for every person with arthritis or joint pain. An individual assessment helps determine whether physiotherapy, medication, activity modification or surgery should be considered.
Patients should confirm the doctor’s current visiting schedule directly with the respective hospital before travelling.
Read More: Treatment for Joint Pain in T.Nagar.
