Your Journey to a New Knee: A Guide About Before and After Knee Replacement Surgery
Knee replacement surgery is a major procedure that may be suitable for you if you suffer from intense knee pain due to arthritis that interferes with your daily life and well-being. The surgery consists of taking out the injured parts of your knee joint and putting in synthetic replacements. The goal of the surgery is to ease your pain and improve your movement and ability.
However, knee replacement surgery requires careful planning and preparation before and challenging recovery after the surgery. You need to be mentally and physically ready for the whole process and know what to expect and what to do at each stage.
Pre-operative Knee Replacement Surgery
Pre op for knee replacement surgery is the process of preparing yourself and your knee before the surgery. It usually involves:
- A physical examination by our surgeon to assess your knee condition and overall health.
- A discussion of the surgery and its risks and benefits, and a decision about which type of knee replacement surgery is best for you.
- A visit to the Prepare Program, where you will receive personalized instructions and education about the surgery and recovery.
- A dental evaluation to make sure you have no dental infections that could spread to your artificial joint.
- A stop of certain medications and supplements that could interfere with blood clotting or cause complications.
There are some important things you need to do and avoid before your knee replacement surgery to ensure a safe and successful outcome.
Some of the things you need to do are:
- Stay active and exercise to strengthen your knee and improve your flexibility
- Drink plenty of water and follow the fasting instructions given by your orthopedic surgeon.
- See your primary care provider and your dentist to make sure you have no medical or dental issues that could affect your surgery or recovery.
- Talk to your anesthesiologist about any prior issues with anesthesia, such as nausea, vomiting, or allergies.
- Prepare your home and equipment for your recovery, such as arranging furniture and getting a walker or crutches.
Some of the things you need to avoid are:
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During knee replacement surgery
During knee replacement surgery, the surgeon removes the damaged parts of your knee joint and replaces them with artificial components made of metal and plastic to help relieve pain and improve mobility and function in your knee. The main steps of the surgery are:
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The surgery usually takes about one to two hours, depending on the type and technique of the surgery. You will be given anesthesia to make you comfortable and pain-free during the surgery.
After The knee replacement surgery
After the surgery, you will be taken to a recovery room where they will check your vital signs, and you will probably remain in the hospital for one to three days, based on your situation and improvement.
The timeline and milestones of knee replacement surgery recovery
The timeline and milestones of your knee replacement recovery depend on the type of surgery, your health, and the rehabilitation plan. However, here are some general guidelines for what to expect during the 12 weeks after the surgery:
Week 1: | Depending on your condition and progress, you may need to stay in the hospital for 1 to 4 days. You will start physical therapy exercises and use an assistive device, such as a walker or crutches, to walk. |
Weeks 2 to 3: | You will continue doing physical therapy exercises at home or at a clinic and gradually increase your knee flexion and range of motion. You will also work on strengthening your muscles and improving your balance and coordination. |
Weeks 4 to 6: | You will keep doing physical therapy exercises and increase the intensity and duration of your activities. You will also work on improving your walking speed and endurance. You may be able to drive, return to work, and perform some low-impact exercises, such as cycling, swimming, or golfing. |
Weeks 7 to 11: | You will further improve your knee’s strength, flexibility, and function. You will also work on restoring your normal gait and posture. |
Week 12: | This is the final stage of your recovery and rehabilitation. You will have achieved most of your goals and regained your mobility and quality of life. |
Contact Dr. Sartawi For Quick and Efficient Knee Replacement Surgery In Dubai
Dr. Sartawi is a renowned orthopedic surgeon who has performed approximately 2500 total knee replacement surgeries with a 98% success rate using his new technique. He is also a compassionate and caring doctor who listens to your expectations and provides personalized care and attention.
Contact Dr. Sartawi now and see the difference for yourself.
