FAQs

Candidates for knee replacement surgery are generally those who have been experiencing severe knee pain and disability that have not improved with non-surgical treatments such as medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications. It is crucial for the patient to be in good overall health and have practical expectations regarding the results of the surgery.

During knee replacement surgery, the patient is typically placed under general or regional anesthesia. The surgeon makes an incision in the knee to reach the damaged joint, remove the damaged cartilage and bone, and implant the artificial joint. This is usually achieved by cementing the artificial joint components onto the remaining bone.

After knee replacement surgery, patients usually spend a few days in the hospital and then undergo several weeks of rehabilitation and physical therapy. During this period, they focus on rebuilding strength, mobility, and range of motion in the knee. Depending on the patient’s progress, they may be able to resume normal activities within a few months of the surgery.

Like all surgeries, knee replacement surgery comes with certain risks and potential complications, such as implant failure, nerve or blood vessel damage, infection, blood clots, and persistent pain or stiffness. It is important for patients to discuss these risks with their surgeon before the procedure.

The longevity of a knee replacement can differ based on several factors, including the patient’s age, activity level, and the type of implant employed. Nonetheless, typically, a knee replacement can endure for 15 to 20 years or even longer on average.

To guarantee a favorable outcome following knee replacement surgery, patients must comply with their surgeon’s post-operative guidelines, attend all scheduled follow-up appointments, and engage in a comprehensive rehabilitation program. In addition, they should maintain a healthy weight and steer clear of high-impact activities that may cause harm to the artificial joint.

Various types of knee replacement surgery are obtainable, such as total knee replacement, partial knee replacement, and complex or revision knee replacement. The recommended procedure will be contingent on the extent and position of the damage to the knee joint.

Prior to knee replacement surgery, patients might have to undergo a physical examination and blood tests to assess their overall health. They may also be required to discontinue taking specific medications or supplements in the weeks leading up to the surgery. Additionally, patients may need to make changes to their home or arrange for assistance with daily activities while they recuperate.

The typical rehabilitation after knee replacement surgery comprises physical therapy and exercises to enhance the knee’s strength, flexibility, and range of motion. Patients may require the use of crutches or a walker for some time after the surgery, and then gradually transition to a cane or walking without assistance. The duration of rehabilitation will hinge on the patient’s overall health and progress.

Pain and discomfort are frequent after knee replacement surgery but can usually be controlled with pain medication and other techniques such as ice packs and elevation. Patients should have a conversation with their surgeon about their pain management strategy and notify them of any unforeseen or severe pain.

The timeline for returning to routine activities will be based on the patient’s progress and the type of activities involved. It is advisable for patients to adhere to their surgeon’s suggestions for resuming activities and steer clear of high-impact or stressful activities that could harm the knee joint.

Patients are generally cautioned against driving for a few weeks after knee replacement surgery since they may find it challenging to operate the pedals or drive the vehicle.

Certainly, physical therapy plays a crucial role in the recovery process after knee replacement surgery. Patients collaborate with a physical therapist to enhance the strength, range of motion, and flexibility of the knee.

For a few weeks following knee replacement surgery, patients should avoid long-distance travel since sitting for prolonged periods may increase the risk of blood clots.

To minimize the possibility of complications after knee replacement surgery, patients should adhere to their surgeon’s wound care instructions, take prescribed medications as directed, attend all follow-up appointments, and notify their healthcare provider of any unusual symptoms or concerns.

After undergoing knee replacement surgery, patients should steer clear of high-impact activities such as running or jumping. These can put a strain on the artificial joint and increase the risk of complications like implant failure. Low-impact activities may be possible, but patients should consult their surgeon for recommendations on safe and suitable exercises.

Minimally invasive techniques can be used for some knee replacement surgeries, resulting in smaller incisions, less tissue damage, and potentially shorter recovery times.

Robotic technology can be used in some knee replacement surgeries to enhance the accuracy and precision of implant placement, which can lead to improved outcomes for patients.

Pain and discomfort after knee replacement surgery can be managed with medications, ice packs, elevation, and other strategies like relaxation techniques or physical therapy exercises.

It’s important for patients to promptly report any unexpected symptoms or concerns to their healthcare provider since some complications can be serious and require immediate treatment.

Knee replacement surgery is generally considered a highly successful procedure, with most patients experiencing substantial relief from pain and improvement in mobility. Nevertheless, outcomes can vary based on individual factors.

Full recovery after knee replacement surgery can take several months, with most patients experiencing significant improvements in pain and mobility within the first few weeks to months after the surgery.

The duration before returning to work varies according to the patient’s job demands and the complexity of the knee replacement surgery. Individuals with jobs that require physical exertion may require a more extended period of time off work or may need to adjust their tasks until they have completely healed.

Patients are usually encouraged to start bending and straightening their knee joint soon after surgery, as this can help prevent stiffness and improve the range of motion.

Depending on the extent of the surgery, patients may need to wear a knee brace or other device to help support and protect the knee joint during the early stages of recovery. The use of braces or devices will depend on the patient’s individual needs and the surgeon’s recommendations.

Patients are typically advised to avoid submerging the incision site in water until it has fully healed, which can take several weeks. However, sponge baths or showers with the incision site covered may be possible.

Patients are usually advised to avoid sexual activity for several weeks after knee replacement surgery or until they feel comfortable and have fully recovered. It is important for patients to discuss any concerns or questions about sexual activity with their healthcare provider.

Patients are advised to avoid air travel for several weeks after knee replacement surgery as sitting for extended periods can increase the risk of blood clots. It is recommended that patients discuss any planned travel with their healthcare provider before making arrangements.

The durability of a knee replacement can differ based on various factors such as the patient’s age, level of physical activity, and overall health. However, with proper care and maintenance, many knee replacements can last for 15 years or more.

To care for a new knee joint after surgery, patients should follow their surgeon’s instructions for wound care and rehabilitation, attend all follow-up appointments, maintain a healthy weight, and avoid activities that put excessive stress on the joint.

Yes, many physical therapy exercises can be done at home after knee replacement surgery. Patients should follow their physical therapist’s instructions and avoid overexertion or doing exercises that cause pain or discomfort.

Rewritten: Although many knee replacements can have a long lifespan, some patients may eventually need revision surgery if the implant wears out or becomes damaged. Patients should have a discussion with their healthcare provider regarding the possibility of revision surgery and should adhere to all recommended care and maintenance instructions to help prolong the life of the implant.

Patients should resume their exercise routine after knee replacement surgery gradually and follow the guidance of their healthcare provider. However, they should avoid high-impact exercises and activities that may put excessive stress on the knee joint.

Patients may be permitted to resume driving after knee replacement surgery once they feel comfortable and confident controlling their vehicle. However, it is important to discuss with their healthcare provider when it is safe to drive, and patients should avoid driving while taking certain pain medications that can impair their ability to operate a vehicle safely.

Patients should be able to climb stairs after undergoing knee replacement surgery. However, during the early stages of recovery, they may require support from a cane or other device and should take care not to overexert themselves. It is important to follow the guidance of their healthcare provider to ensure a safe and successful recovery.

Patients should promptly report any signs of infection, including redness, swelling, or drainage at the incision site, to their healthcare provider. If an infection is suspected, prompt treatment with antibiotics or additional surgery may be necessary to prevent complications.

Depending on the patient’s individual risk factors, they may need to take blood thinners after knee replacement surgery to prevent blood clots. Patients should follow their healthcare provider’s instructions regarding blood thinner use.