Knee replacement is an orthopedic surgery that consists of replacing problematic sections of the knee with plastic and metal pieces that allow the knee to move the way it should. Typically, the procedure involves a long incision, which detaches the muscle from the kneecap. The muscle must be given time to heal, which makes the recovery process longer than other procedures. The damaged parts of the joint are removed, and the surfaces of the joint are prepared for metal and plastic components to be fixed to the bones, mimicking their shape. At the end of the surgery, the muscle is repaired, and the opening is closed.
The procedure typically lasts about two hours. General anesthesia is normally used for joint replacement procedures, so you will be unconscious throughout the procedure. Local anesthesia is sometimes used, meaning you are awake during the procedure, but you cannot feel anything in your knee. You and your doctor may decide which form of anesthesia will be used. You will also discuss whether or not you will need to take antibiotics before the procedure to reduce the risk of infection.
Following the orthopedic surgery, you are taken to a recovery room, where you will stay for a few hours. This procedure normally requires the patient to stay in the hospital for a few days. You may feel some pain during your initial recovery, but you will be given pain medication to reduce the discomfort as well as antibiotics following your procedure. You will be encouraged to move your foot and ankle to help blood flow, and you may use a continuous passive motion machine, which helps to maintain flexibility in your knee.
In the first few days after the orthopedic surgery, you will continue to take pain medication, taking less and less over the next few days. When you start walking again, you may need to use crutches to keep weight off your knee. Following the procedure, you will begin physical therapy to help you get flexibility back in your knee. You will do some exercises to start gaining strength back in your muscles in the area. Rehabilitation usually continues as long as it takes for you to get full strength and range of motion back.
For several months after your procedure, you will check in with your doctor to monitor your progress. You may need to continue taking antibiotics to prevent infection for months or even years following the procedure. Your doctor will urge you to keep exercising, recommending activities such as walking, swimming, or running.
ANNA WOODWARD
