1. Is total knee replacement only for people with
osteoarthritis?
There are several indications for total knee replacement
including rheumatoid arthritis, arthritis resulting from previous injury to
the bones in the joint, corrections of various bone deformities, or direct
trauma to the joint.
2. What can one expect from the surgical procedure?
- Surgical incision on the front of
the knee, alongside the kneecap.
- Length of surgery will be
approximately one and a half to two hours. Preoperative care and time spent
in the recovery room can add an additional 2 to 3 hours before you are back
in your hospital room.
- Rehabilitation and walking may
begin the day after surgery.
- Hospital stay is normally 3 to 5
days.
3. What type of rehabilitation can one expect following
surgery?
Exercise is necessary for proper healing. Depending on the
orthopedic surgeons prescribed recovery outline, physical therapy may begin
between 24 and 48 hours after surgery. Formal physical therapy may begin in
the hospital and continue as directed by the surgeon. Patients should always
follow the recovery schedule prescribed by their surgeon.
4.
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What activity range can be expected after this surgical
procedure? |
Diligent physical therapy, proper diet, and a willingness to
follow all of the surgeons' recommendations will promote a more complete
recovery after surgery. Most patients should be able to walk unassisted and
drive about four to six weeks after surgery. After a thorough evaluation by
the physician, activities such as golfing, bicycling, and swimming may be
resumed.
5. Are regular visits with your surgeon required after
surgery?
The surgeon will set a follow-up schedule for the first year
after surgery to evaluate each patient's progress. Annual visits may be
required thereafter. Complications can occur with implants, so seeing the
surgeon when you notice a change in symptoms can assist in evaluating any
changes that may occur with your new joint.
6. Are there risks from surgery?
While uncommon, complications can occur during and after
surgery. Some complications include infection, blood clots, implant breakage,
misalignment, and premature wear. Although implant surgery is extremely
successful in most cases, some patients still experience stiffness and pain.
No implant will last forever and factors such as the patient's post-surgical
activities and weight can affect longevity. Be sure to discuss these and
other risks with your surgeon.
There are many things that your surgeon may do to minimize the
potential for complications. Your surgeon may have you see a medical
physician before surgery to obtain tests. You may also need to have your
dental work up to date and may be shown how to prepare your home to avoid
falls.
7. What are the benefits of joint replacement?
The purpose of a joint replacement is to help restore
pain-free or near pain-free movement to a joint. Once a patient's pain is
under control, he or she should be able to return to a more active lifestyle.
Activities that could not be performed before surgery, such as climbing
stairs, walking acceptable distances, or driving, may be resumed as directed
by your surgeon after total joint replacement surgery. Your orthopedic
surgeon may have several patients who would be willing to speak with you
about their experiences before and after total joint replacement surgery. Ask
your orthopedic surgeon about this beneficial resource.
| 8. |
What are my non-surgical options before considering joint replacement? |
|
- Assistive devices such as a support
brace, a cane, or a walker may provide relief when joint pain does not affect
everyday activity.
- Exercise or physical therapy can
strengthen the muscles around the affected joint(s), possibly providing
relief from pain while improving mobility and function.
Preoperative care and time spent
in the recovery room can add an additional 2 to 3 hours before you are back
in your hospital room.
- Medical management including
nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications or steroid injections may assist
in reducing painful joint inflammation and restoring function.
9. Is age a consideration for joint replacement?
Age is not a problem if you are in reasonably good health and
have the desire to continue living a productive, active life. You may ask to
see your personal physician for an opinion about your general health and
readiness for surgery. An advantage of the Biomet® Rapid Recovery Program is
returning patients to their daily lives and activities at a faster rate than
traditional joint replacement surgery.
10. Will I need to see my surgeon after surgery?
Your surgeon will set a follow-up schedule for the first year
after surgery to evaluate your progress. You will be seen annually
thereafter. Complications can occur with implants, so seeing your surgeon
when you notice a change in symptoms can assist in evaluating any changes
that may occur with your new joint.
