Before and After Knee Replacement Surgery
If you suffer from severe knee pain that limits your mobility and quality of life, knee replacement surgery may be an option to restore function and reduce pain. At Priyadarshani Nursing Home, a multi-specialty hospital in Virar East, Our experienced orthopedic doctors perform knee replacement treatment in Virar East Mumbai to help patients regain their active lifestyles. This blog post will tell you what to expect before and after surgery to replace your knee.
Before Surgery
Once you and your orthopedic surgeon decide to proceed with knee replacement surgery, several vital steps happen before the operation:
- Medical Clearance – Your surgeon will review your complete medical history, conduct a physical exam of your knee, and evaluate diagnostic images like X-rays or an MRI. This helps determine if you are a good candidate for the surgery based on factors like the severity of arthritis damage, area of pain, range of motion, disability, and whether more conservative treatments have failed. Your doctor will also make sure you are otherwise healthy for surgery.
- Home Preparation – To make a recovery safer and easier, arrange your home by installing grab bars in the shower, setting up a bedroom and bathroom space on the first floor if you have stairs, and removing loose rugs and clutter. Stock up on easy meals, medical supplies, and daily living aids.
- Pre-Op Testing – You will have routine blood work, urinalysis, chest x-ray, EKG, and other needed tests to confirm your health for surgery. Your medications will also be reviewed and adjusted.
- Medication & Supplement Cessation – Stop taking certain medications and supplements 1-2 weeks before surgery to reduce bleeding risks. This includes all anti-inflammatories, herbal supplements like fish oil, and blood-thinning medications.
- Pre-Op Class – Many hospitals offer joint replacement education classes for patients. Attending can help reduce anxiety by learning what to expect in the hospital.
- Fasting – Do not eat or drink anything starting at midnight the night before your scheduled surgery. Follow any other special instructions from your medical team.
- Skin Prep – Thoroughly wash the surgical site with anti-bacterial soap the night before and the morning of surgery. Remove nail polish, jewelry, and piercings.
Day of Surgery
The sequence on the day of surgery will be:
- Arrival at the Hospital: Plan to arrive on a surgery day several hours ahead so the nurses will have sufficient time to admit you and do the dressing-up for the surgery.
- Pre-op Preparation: A nurse will begin an IV line, check vital signs, run blood tests, have you change into a hospital gown, fit compression devices, and complete all other required pre-op tasks.
- Surgeon Consult: Beforehand, an orthopedic surgeon meets with you to mark the surgery site, review the procedure, and answer your last-minute questions.
- Anesthesia: On arrival in the operating room, either general anesthesia is given to put the patient entirely to sleep or a regional nerve block is performed on the leg for numbing.
- Reconstructive Surgery: Generally lasting for a period spanning from one to two hours, this surgery involves an open approach to the knee joint through an incision and removal of worn-out bones and cartilage, with replacement by fresh, new components of an artificial joint.
- Recovery Room: After the surgery is completed, you wake in the recovery room, where nurses closely watch your vital signs for a period spanning 1-2 hours before being moved into your hospital room.
Hospital Recovery
Initial recovery after knee replacement surgery focuses on the following:
- Pain Control – Your doctor will prescribe medications to manage post-op pain, which is most severe in the first few days. Adequate pain control is vital for starting therapy.
- Physical & Occupational Therapy – Gentle exercises and activities will start the day after or the day after surgery. A therapist helps you gain strength and mobility and practice daily living activities.
- Walking – You will begin with assistive devices like a walker or crutches. A physical therapist provides instruction and supervision to ensure safe mobility.
- Incision Care – Keep the wound clean and dry. Look for signs of infection like redness, drainage, or fever, and notify your surgeon immediately.
- Blood Clot Prevention – You will use compression devices and possibly medications to prevent dangerous blood clots in the legs.
- Hospital Discharge – Once medically stable, meeting therapy goals, and able to walk, most patients are discharged home within 1-3 days after surgery.
Post-Operative Recovery
The weeks and months after surgery focus on:
- Pain Management – Oral pain medication will be prescribed for home use as you wean off stronger hospital medications. Use ice, elevation, and activity modifications to aid control.
- Outpatient Therapy – You will attend physical therapy multiple times weekly for up to 3+ months. Therapy is crucial for a successful outcome.
- Assistive Devices – Depending on your progress, you may need a walker, crutches, or cane for 1-6 weeks until strength and balance improve.
- Incision Healing – Monitor the wound daily as it closes. Bruising, swelling, and numbness around the incision are standard parts of the healing process.
- Follow-Up Appointments – Your surgeon will want to see you regularly to x-ray the knee, assess your progress, and ensure your healing.
- Return to Activities – Your doctor will guide you on gradually returning to driving, work, exercise, sexual activity, and other everyday activities. Pace your activity level based on comfort.
To get the most out of your knee replacement, you need to be ready for surgery, know what to expect in the hospital, and be committed to rehab. Hip and knee surgeons at Priyadarshani Nursing Home are very skilled and give each patient individualised care at all times. Get in touch with us to find out more and see if knee replacement is right for you.
Why Choose Us?
When considering where to have total knee replacement surgery, Priyadarshani Nursing Home multi-speciality hospital in Virar East stands out as a top choice for several reasons:
Experienced Surgeons
Our orthopedic surgeons have years of specialized training and expertise in knee replacement procedures. They have performed hundreds of successful total knee replacements. Their skill and experience help ensure optimal outcomes.
Cutting-Edge Technology
We utilize the latest techniques and most advanced medical technology, including computer navigation for precise implant positioning. Our modern operating rooms and sterilization systems meet the highest standards.
Comprehensive Care
Our comprehensive approach includes extensive pre-op education and preparation, excellent post-surgical care, and an entire team dedicated to your recovery. We take the whole journey into account.
Personalized Treatment
No two patients are alike. Your treatment plan is tailored to your individual needs and health status. We take the time to understand your lifestyle and goals to get you back to the activities you love.
Affordable Costs
Our knee replacement costs are affordable without compromising the quality of care, materials, or service. We accept most major health insurance plans. Financing options are available.
FAQs
Q: How long does knee replacement surgery take?
A: The surgery takes 1-2 hours to complete, but plan for the entire process, including preparation and recovery, to take several hours.
Q: How long is the hospital stay after knee replacement?
A: Most patients stay in the hospital 1-3 days after surgery before being discharged to continue recovery at home.
Q: When can I drive after a total knee replacement?
A: You must refrain from driving for at least 4-6 weeks after surgery as you regain strength and range of motion.
Q: When can I return to work after a knee replacement?
A: Most patients take 4-6 weeks off work for recovery, but your exact timeline depends on your job duties and progress.
