Exploring Lived Experiences of Patients Following Total Knee Replacement Surgery in Peshawar, Pakistan

Abstract

Introduction: Total knee replacement (TKR) is a widely performed surgical intervention designed to relieve pain and restore mobility in individuals with severe knee joint degeneration, primarily due to osteoarthritis. While clinical metrics such as pain reduction and functional improvement are frequently reported, the subjective experiences of patients throughout the TKR journey are often overlooked.

Objective: This study explores lived experiences of patients following total knee replacement surgery and determines challenges faced by TKR surgery patients.

Methodology: This was a qualitative Phenomenology study carried out in the district of Peshawar. A total of twelve participants were selected from a tertiary care hospital in Peshawar. Patients of both genders undergone TKR surgery and age between 18 to 65 were included in the study. Before data collection, permissions were granted from the concerned hospitals. Interviews were conducted to collect the data from the participants. Data was analysed using thematic analysis.

Results: A total of 20 codes were extracted and all these codes were arranged in a way to extract 10 categories and 5 themes. The extracted themes were the Emotional Challenges Pre-Surgery, Physical Challenges Post-Surgery, Rehabilitation and Mobility Adjustment, Social and Psychological Adjustment, and Personal Satisfaction and Quality of Life Post-TKR.

Conclusion: This study provides valuable insights into the unique perception and challenges of patients following TKR surgery. The findings can inform healthcare institutions, policymakers, and nursing educators in developing targeted strategies and programs to support and care patients of TKR surgery that can ultimately improve the quality of healthcare services and patient outcomes in the region.