Knee replacement surgery is the most common treatment for advanced arthritis of the knee, with more than 600,000 procedures performed in the United States each year.
A Marshfield Clinic Orthopedic doctor recommends a knee replacement if a person experiences stiffness or pain in his or her knee joint that can’t be relieved by medication. What’s more, a candidate for surgery finds walking even short distances difficult.
During a knee replacement, a surgeon will remove just enough of the damaged cartilage and bone to replace the weight bearing surfaces with a new metal and plastic joint surface to restore the alignment and function of the knee.
Before Surgery
Total joint replacement – bring your total joint replacement binder with you on the day of surgery.
Enlist a coach - your coach will provide emotional and physical support along with transportation on the day of discharge and for your follow-up appointments.
Pre-surgery exercises - start your pre-operative exercises. They are very important to do and can aid in a quicker recovery after surgery.
Dental needs - visit your dentist six months or less before surgery.
Report the following - report any infections or open cuts 24 – 48 hours before surgery day.
Medical leave papers - bring your medical leave papers to Orthopedics at least one month before your surgery date so they can be completed before your surgery.
Medications - stop the following medications 3 – 10 days before surgery unless told otherwise during your pre-operative physical exam:
- Aspirin
- Anti-inflammatory medications (ibuprofen, Aleve, Naprosyn)
- Fish oil
- Vitamin E
- Coumadin
- Plavix
Skin prep before surgery - shower or take bath with the CHG soap that was provided. Use this soap the evening before surgery and the day of surgery.
Prescription medication instructions - if you are instructed to take Coumadin, the evening before surgery, do so following your surgeon's instructions.
Eating and drinking restrictions:
- Nothing to eat or drink after midnight.
- The morning of surgery take your medications with only sips of water.
After Surgery
How to recognize and prevent complications.
Infection signs:
- Increased swelling and bright redness in the surgical area
- Change in color, amount, or odor of drainage
- Increased pain in surgical area
- Fever greater than 102°F - take your temperature
Symptoms of a blood clot
Blood clots can be in your leg or arm:
- Swelling in thigh, calf, ankle, arm, hand or shoulder that does not go down with elevation.
- Pain, heat, and tenderness in calf, back of knee, or groin area.
How to prevent a blood clot:
- Ankle pumps
- Walk
- Exercise hands or arms
- Take prescribed blood thinners
Pulmonary embolus (blood clot in lungs)
A blood clot in your lung is an emergency. Go to the emergency room or call 911 if a blood clot is suspected.
Symptoms of a pulmonary embolus:
- Sudden chest pain or chest discomfort
- Difficult and/or rapid breathing
- Shortness of breath
- Sweating
- Confusion
Prevent a pulmonary embolus (blood clot):
- Ankle pumps
- Walk
- Take prescribed blood thinners