SURGERY CONSULTATION
While there are many conditions that can result in the need for a total knee replacement, the most common is osteoarthritis.
More than 600,000 knee replacements are performed each year in the US.
Total knee replacement (TKR) surgery is one of the most successful procedures in all of medicine. According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, ninety percent of people who have a knee replacement go on to experience a significant reduction in pain.
Most people who have knee replacement surgery are able to perform many daily activities, aside from running and jumping, and can keep active.
While the prospect of surgery of any kind can cause uncertainty and doubt, knowing what is involved with the surgery helps you to know what to expect, and can help to alleviate your fears.
If you’re looking into options and wondering whether total knee replacement surgery is right for you, here is a quick guide to total knee replacement surgery.
Preparing for Surgery
When other non-surgical methods, like medication and physical therapy, are no longer adequate, your doctor may recommend knee replacement surgery.
Pre-assessment
Your doctor may ask you to attend a pre-assessment screening to ensure that you are well enough for surgery, and for you to give your consent to the operation. You might also go over therapy options during this time, which will help to speed the recovery process.
Transport
You should have your transport (both before and after surgery) arranged before you head to surgery to help with the discharge.
What Happens During Surgery?
Once you are put under general anesthesia or spinal/epidural anesthesia, your doctor will begin the process of replacing your knee. Generally, a slit will be made in the front of your knee. The damaged part of the joint is taken off the surface of the bone, and the surfaces are reshaped to hold a metal or plastic artificial joint. The new joint is then attached to the thighbone, shin, and kneecap.
What to Expect After Surgery
The average stay in a hospital after total knee replacement is three to five days. For most, the improvements can be noticed almost immediately since there will no longer be constant pain. Although you will require the aid of crutches or a walker until your new knee can support your weight fully, you will most likely be standing and walking the day after your surgery.
While most patients who undergo total knee replacement are between the ages of 50 and 80, knee replacement surgery has been successfully performed for people of all ages. Orthopedic surgeons evaluate patients individually to determine whether they are a suitable candidate. The device usually lasts well over a decade, and about 85 percent of artificial knees still work after 20 years.
For more information on knee replacement surgery in Rhode Island, contact Blackstone Orthopedics today.
