Possible Complications
Problems are rare, but all procedures have some risk. The doctor will go over some problems that could happen, such as:
- Infection
- Excess bleeding
- Blood clots
- Problems with the implant
- Pain that does not get better
- Damage to nearby nerves or blood vessels around the knee
Things that may raise the risk of problems are:
- Smoking
- Chronic health problems, such as diabetes and obesity
Reasons for Procedure
This surgery is done in people who have knee pain that limits activities. The pain may be from arthritis or injury. Surgery may also be done to correct a knee that is bowing in or out.
What to Expect
Prior to Procedure
The surgical team will meet with you to talk about:
- Anesthesia options
- Any allergies you may have
- Current medicines, herbs, and supplements that you take and whether you need to
stop taking them before surgery
- Fasting before surgery, such as avoiding food or drink after midnight the night
before
- Arranging for a ride to and from surgery
- Tests that will need to be done before surgery, such as a CT scan or MRI
scan to help choose an implant
Anesthesia
The doctor may give:
A sedative—you will feel relaxed General anesthesia—you will be asleep Regional anesthesia —pain will be
blocked without causing sleep
Description of the Procedure
A cut will be made in the skin. The damaged cartilage and bone
will be removed. The bone that is left will be prepared to receive the new joint. It
is made from material such as plastic and metal. The artificial joint will be placed
in the correct place. It may be cemented within the bone. The cut will be closed with
staples. A drain will be left in to allow extra fluid to flow out.
How Long Will It Take?
About 2 hours.
How Much Will It Hurt?
Anesthesia will block pain during surgery. There will be pain during recovery. Medicine and home care can help.
Average Hospital Stay
The usual length of stay is 3 to 4 days. If you have any
problems, you may need to stay longer.
Post-procedure Care
At the Hospital
After the procedure, the staff will:
- Give pain medicine
- Take an X-ray of the joint replacement if needed
- Put compression stockings on the legs to lower the risk of blood clots
- Wrap the knee with a cold pack to ease pain and swelling
- Ask you to move your foot and ankle to promote blood flow
- Teach you how to use a walker,
crutches, or other
support devices
At Home
It will take several weeks to months for the cut and joint
area to fully heal. Exercises will help with recovery. Some physical activities
will need to be limited. Help will be needed to do daily tasks. Returning to work
may take six weeks or more.
Antibiotics may be needed before dental procedures and surgeries. This helps lower the risk of infection in the new joint.
Problems to Look Out For
Call the doctor if you are not getting better or you have:
- Signs of infection, such as fever and chills
- Redness, swelling, or increased pain at the wound or in the leg or feet
- Increased bleeding or other leakage from the wound
- Pain that you cannot control with medicine
- Nausea and vomiting that is severe or that lasts a long time
- A chalky white, blue, or black appearance in the leg, foot, or toes
- Numbness or tingling in the leg, foot, or toes
- Cough, shortness of breath, or chest pain
- Problems passing urine (pee) or bloody urine
If you think you have an emergency, call for medical help right away.