27th February, 2025
Knee replacement is a major surgery that requires considerable preparation, both physically and mentally. Even after the surgery is complete, you will need to adjust your lifestyle and slowly adapt to using the prosthetic knee. Here, we share a step-by-step guide about some of the preparations that you should take before opting for knee replacement surgery.
At first, your orthopaedic surgeon will perform a general physical assessment of the knee and go through your medical history. They may also conduct Scans or X-rays to get a better idea of the present condition of your knee.
Once he is sure that all the non-surgical options are not getting the needed relief, then, the doctor will likely have a discussion with you regarding the potential risks and long-term advantages of undergoing the knee replacement surgery. Based on this talk, you can make an informed decision on when and how to proceed with the surgery. At this time, you will also find out what you can expect during and after the knee replacement procedure.
Just before the surgery is scheduled, your doctor will perform a clinical assessment in consultation with Physician, Anesthetist and Cardiologist to check whether you are fit to undergo the planned procedure. They may also adjust any medication you are on. You also have to undergo a further round of tests just before the surgery. These tests can include ECG, blood tests and more, as deemed fit by the physician.
If you live alone, you would need to arrange for a caregiver who can help you do your daily activities after the surgery for a period of 3 to 6 weeks. You should also plan for someone to give consent as witness (preferably a family member) and remain present in Hospital during surgery.
Take a proper bath and clean the area of surgery with soap and water. Relax and have a good night's sleep.
After you get up fresh from a good night's sleep. Take a shower and the nursing personnel will then make you ready for the surgical procedure. You or your family members can still clear your doubts with the surgical team.
Surgery is usually done under regional anesthesia and nerve blocks are given to reduce the pain in the postoperative period.
The doctors will continue to use pain medications to aid in recovery and prevent discomfort. After some time, you will also need to start physical therapy to become used to the new prosthetic knee.
Even after getting discharged from the hospital, you will need to do regular physical therapy sessions at your home for some time. This will allow you to develop strength, improve range of motion and your gait and become more comfortable with different types of movement. You will also need to visit the orthopaedic surgeon for follow up care and adjustments.
Explore our Department of Orthopaedics. We have more than 25 years of experience handling all kinds of joint replacement surgery, such as knee, hip, shoulder and elbow joints. We were the first to introduce computer-navigated joint replacement surgeries in Eastern India. We now use HOLOLENS HUMANOID ROBOTICS. If you are undergoing knee replacement surgery, you can rest assured since we have extremely low infection rates, even when compared to international standards. Our expert orthopedists can assist you in the preparation of the surgery and also guide you through the peri-operative care process.
