What to Expect Before & After Total Knee Replacement Surgery?
Reviewed by: Manipal Hospitals
Posted on
1 Min Read
Not sure what you’re looking for?
Get in touch with our representatives for help!
Contact UsA total knee replacement procedure, also known as knee arthroplasty, is performed to provide relief from pain usually caused due to osteoarthritis and restore function to severely diseased or affected knee joints. Studies conducted by the World Health Organization (WHO) have revealed that osteoarthritis is the second most prevalent rheumatologic disorder and the most common joint disorder with a prevalence rate of 22% to 39% in India.
As per Dr. Sinukumar Bhaskaran, Consultant- Orthopaedics & Joint Replacement Surgery, Manipal Hospitals, Kharadi, Pune, ‘total knee replacement procedures have become necessary for treating patients with various knee disorders’.
The procedure involves the removal of damaged cartilage and bone from the shinbone, kneecap and thighbone and replacing it with an artificial joint made of high-grade plastics, polymers and metal alloys.
How to Prepare for Total Knee Replacement Procedure?
A doctor or an anaesthesiologist may advise the patient to stop taking certain dietary supplements and medications, such as aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs that make it harder for blood to clot, steroids and other medications that affect the functioning of the immune system and augment the risk of post-surgical infection, and opioid pain medications that reduce tolerance to various pain medications, before the procedure. Furthermore, patients should inform the doctor about any nutritional supplements and homeopathic medications that they take.
In addition, the patient should not consume anything after midnight on the day of the procedure. Besides, doctors also recommend the following measures before a total knee replacement procedure:
-
Reducing tobacco consumption
As nicotine augments the risk of deep vein thrombosis or post-surgical infection and impedes healing, doctors strongly suggest reducing the consumption of tobacco before knee arthroplasty.
-
Cutting down on alcohol consumption
As alcohol interferes with the effects of anaesthesia, alcohol consumption should be limited to a couple of drinks before the procedure.
-
Reporting any underlying diseases/illnesses
Patients suffering from cold, flu, herpes breakout or any other diseases must inform their doctors about their condition before the procedure.
As a total knee replacement procedure is a major surgery, it requires several preparatory and diagnostic tests, including checking blood count and the blood clotting process, urine tests and electrocardiograms (ECGs). The procedure is generally performed under spinal, epidural or general anaesthetic. Knee replacement surgery in Bangalore is available at Manipal Hospitals, book an appointment today.
Care After Total Knee Replacement Surgery
Following a total knee replacement procedure, pain medicines are generally given by the doctor to alleviate pain and discomfort. While non-opioid (non-narcotic) medicines are usually given for minimizing pain, in some cases, opioid (narcotic) medicines are prescribed before physical therapy and sleep for at least a few weeks.
A combination of pain-relief techniques that minimize side effects and complement each other is generally adopted for treating pain. This method is called multimodal analgesia. If the pain remains under control, the patient may be asked to walk a few steps with the help of a walker or a physical therapist as putting some weight on the new knees (with assistance) so soon after surgery usually accelerates the recovery process. Consult with our orthopaedics expert in Bangalore to know more about the treatment.
Moreover, the patient is asked to move around a bit as soon as possible, perform some exercises (under the supervision of a physical therapist), take anti-clotting medications and wear compression boots to mitigate the risk of blood clots in the legs (also called deep vein thromboses).
Doctors also prescribe antibiotics after total knee replacement procedures to minimize the risk of infections. Besides, patients are also advised to eat healthy foods, avoid smoking and control blood sugars (if diabetic) after these procedures to reduce the risk of infections.
Physical therapy is another important component of the recovery process. A personalized and effective recovery and rehabilitation plan is critical for the success of the knee replacement procedure as it can help the patient:
-
Get discharged from the hospital sooner
-
Regain range of motion and knee strength quickly
-
Resume physical activities
-
Avoid complications
Besides, some doctors also prescribe recovery plans that involve the use of continuous passive motion (CPM) machines which help straighten and bend the affected leg by slowly moving it while the patient is lying on their back. This machine can be used by a patient for up to 8 hours a day. These machines are also recommended to patients for temporary use at home after discharge from the hospital.
How Much Weight Can Be Safely Put on the Knee Post TKR?
Following a total knee replacement surgery, knee replacement patients are given certain weight-bearing guidelines to follow both in the hospital and at home. The pressure that the knee can support after the procedure usually depends on the following factors:
-
The type of surgery performed (one-sided knee replacement or a total knee replacement)
-
The condition of the bone
-
The type of prostheses and how it can be fixated to the natural bone
However, patients will be asked to put more weight on the knee gradually to enable quicker healing.
FAQs
1. What is the best way to prepare for a TKR?
Here are a few things a patient can do to prepare themselves better for a TKR:
-
Reduce the consumption of alcohol, tobacco, certain medications and substances as per the doctor’s advice.
-
Get assistive equipment, such as sock aids, shoe horns, walking aids, walker, cane, that may be required after the procedure.
-
Exercise to strengthen and condition the bones and joints to enable faster recovery post procedure.
2. How painful is a TKR?
Patients may experience mild pain after the procedure. Some patients have reported a sharp rise in the intensity of pain after the initial healing phase of a few months.
3. What is the fastest way to recover from a TKR?
Patients can accelerate their recovery process by:
-
Wearing knee braces
-
Undergoing physical therapy and rehabilitation
-
Exercising regularly
4. How long does it take to bend the knee after the procedure?
Patients should be able to bend/flex their knees to at least 90 degrees within 7 to 10 days after the procedure.
5. What is the recovery time for a TKR?
With proper care and physical therapy, patients can recover from a TKR in 2-3 months.
6. What is the one thing patients should know before the surgery?
Patients should be informed about the slow pace of the recovery process after a knee replacement surgery. Although the pace of recovery differs for everyone and generally depends on the type of surgery that they have undergone, it is usually slow and it may take the patient a minimum of 2-3 months to fully recover from the procedure.
Manipal Hospitals
A doctor or an anaesthesiologist may advise the patient to stop taking certain dietary supplements and medications, such as aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs that make it harder for blood to clot, steroids and other medications that affect the functioning of the immune system and augment the risk of post-surgical infection, and opioid pain medications that reduce tolerance to various pain medications, before the procedure. Furthermore, patients should inform the doctor about any nutritional supplements and homeopathic medications that they take.
In addition, the patient should not consume anything after midnight on the day of the procedure. Besides, doctors also recommend the following measures before a total knee replacement procedure:
As nicotine augments the risk of deep vein thrombosis or post-surgical infection and impedes healing, doctors strongly suggest reducing the consumption of tobacco before knee arthroplasty.
As alcohol interferes with the effects of anaesthesia, alcohol consumption should be limited to a couple of drinks before the procedure.
Patients suffering from cold, flu, herpes breakout or any other diseases must inform their doctors about their condition before the procedure.
As a total knee replacement procedure is a major surgery, it requires several preparatory and diagnostic tests, including checking blood count and the blood clotting process, urine tests and electrocardiograms (ECGs). The procedure is generally performed under spinal, epidural or general anaesthetic. Knee replacement surgery in Bangalore is available at Manipal Hospitals, book an appointment today.
Following a total knee replacement procedure, pain medicines are generally given by the doctor to alleviate pain and discomfort. While non-opioid (non-narcotic) medicines are usually given for minimizing pain, in some cases, opioid (narcotic) medicines are prescribed before physical therapy and sleep for at least a few weeks.
A combination of pain-relief techniques that minimize side effects and complement each other is generally adopted for treating pain. This method is called multimodal analgesia. If the pain remains under control, the patient may be asked to walk a few steps with the help of a walker or a physical therapist as putting some weight on the new knees (with assistance) so soon after surgery usually accelerates the recovery process. Consult with our orthopaedics expert in Bangalore to know more about the treatment.
Moreover, the patient is asked to move around a bit as soon as possible, perform some exercises (under the supervision of a physical therapist), take anti-clotting medications and wear compression boots to mitigate the risk of blood clots in the legs (also called deep vein thromboses).
Doctors also prescribe antibiotics after total knee replacement procedures to minimize the risk of infections. Besides, patients are also advised to eat healthy foods, avoid smoking and control blood sugars (if diabetic) after these procedures to reduce the risk of infections.
Physical therapy is another important component of the recovery process. A personalized and effective recovery and rehabilitation plan is critical for the success of the knee replacement procedure as it can help the patient:
-
Get discharged from the hospital sooner
-
Regain range of motion and knee strength quickly
-
Resume physical activities
-
Avoid complications
Besides, some doctors also prescribe recovery plans that involve the use of continuous passive motion (CPM) machines which help straighten and bend the affected leg by slowly moving it while the patient is lying on their back. This machine can be used by a patient for up to 8 hours a day. These machines are also recommended to patients for temporary use at home after discharge from the hospital.
Following a total knee replacement surgery, knee replacement patients are given certain weight-bearing guidelines to follow both in the hospital and at home. The pressure that the knee can support after the procedure usually depends on the following factors:
-
The type of surgery performed (one-sided knee replacement or a total knee replacement)
-
The condition of the bone
-
The type of prostheses and how it can be fixated to the natural bone
However, patients will be asked to put more weight on the knee gradually to enable quicker healing.
Here are a few things a patient can do to prepare themselves better for a TKR:
-
Reduce the consumption of alcohol, tobacco, certain medications and substances as per the doctor’s advice.
-
Get assistive equipment, such as sock aids, shoe horns, walking aids, walker, cane, that may be required after the procedure.
-
Exercise to strengthen and condition the bones and joints to enable faster recovery post procedure.
Patients may experience mild pain after the procedure. Some patients have reported a sharp rise in the intensity of pain after the initial healing phase of a few months.
Patients can accelerate their recovery process by:
-
Wearing knee braces
-
Undergoing physical therapy and rehabilitation
-
Exercising regularly
Patients should be able to bend/flex their knees to at least 90 degrees within 7 to 10 days after the procedure.
With proper care and physical therapy, patients can recover from a TKR in 2-3 months.
Patients should be informed about the slow pace of the recovery process after a knee replacement surgery. Although the pace of recovery differs for everyone and generally depends on the type of surgery that they have undergone, it is usually slow and it may take the patient a minimum of 2-3 months to fully recover from the procedure.
Manipal Hospitals
Share this Article
Recent Blogs
Test blog - oct 1
01 Oct 20267 Min Read
Understanding Insulin Resistance: A Core Concept Insulin is a vital hormone In the intricate landscape of women's health, certain conditions often go unnoticed until they manifest into more significant concerns. One such silent yet powerful player is insulin resistance. It's a condition where your body's cells don't respond effectively to insulin, leading to elevated blood sugar levels. For many women, understanding the early insulin resistance symptoms in females can be a game-changer, enabling timely intervention and preventing a cascade of health issues. In this blog, an experienced gynaecologist in Mysuru explains in detail the nuances of insulin resistance in women, highlighting the crucial early signs you should be aware of. Recognising these signs of insulin resistance in females is the first step towards taking control of your health journey. it. For women, the prevalence can be even higher, particularly in certain life stages or conditions. Causes of Insulin Resistance in Women While insulin resistance can affect anyone, women face unique physiological factors that can increase their susceptibility: Lifestyle Tips for Long-Term Liver Health The table below lists straightforward lifestyle tips to support lasting liver health and avoid extra damage. ljfslsdjksnfs3333333TestingTestingTestingTestingTestingTestingTestingTestingTestingTestingTestingTestingTestingTestingTestingTestingTestingTestingTestingTestingTestingTestingTestingTestingTestingTestingTestingTestingTestingTestingTestingTestingTestingTestingTestingTestingTestingTestingTestingTestingTesting uiuiiuhghhjTip Description Avoid processed and fried foods Reduces excess fat intake and supports better liver function Include antioxidant-rich foods Fruits and vegetables help protect liver cells from damage Stay physically active Regular exercise improves metabolism and reduces fat accumulation in the liver Monitor weight regularly Helps in maintaining a healthy weight and preventing fat buildup Schedule routine health check-ups Enables early detection and management of liver-related issues These habits support long-term recovery and reduce the risk of future fatty liver problems.
Read NowTypes of Nerve Injury: Causes, Symptoms & Recovery Guide
24 Sept 20260 Min Read
Nerve injuries happen when a nerve is pinched, stretched, cut or damaged. These injuries can cause numbness, tingling, or sharp pain.
Read Nowtesting admin blogs
20 Sept 20262 Min Read
dislocated-hip-symptoms test https://manipaltest.cosmicnet.xyz/referral-program/
Read NowDislocated Hip: Understanding Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options
26 Aug 20265 Min Read
A dislocated hip is a severe injury that occurs when the head of the thigh bone (femur) is forced out of the hip socket (acetabulum). This traumatic event can be incredibly painful and immediately incapacitating, requiring urgent medical attention. This blog explores the symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment of hip dislocation with expert insights from specialists at Manipal Hospitals, a top orthopaedic hospital in Vijayawada, offering comprehensive hip dislocation treatment in Vijayawada to help patients achieve the best possible recovery. Understanding the signs, causes, and available treatment options is crucial for anyone who has experienced or knows someone who has experienced this injury. Early intervention is key to preventing long-term complications and ensuring a successful recovery.
Read NowFluttering in Chest: Causes, Symptoms & When to See a Doctor
26 Jun 20266 Min Read
A sudden, strange tapping, flipping or thumping inside your chest can be highly unsettling. This feeling can match the sensation of a brief skipped beat or a sudden twitch. This sensation is commonly known as a fluttering chest. While a fluttering feeling in the chest can be alarming and cause your anxiety to spike, it is actually a very common experience. In many cases, it is harmless. However, in some cases, it points to an underlying medical issue that needs attention.
Read Now10 Warning Signs of an Unhealthy Gut You Must Not Ignore
26 Jun 20266 Min Read
Your gut does much more than digest food. It plays a key role in your energy levels, immune system, mood, and overall well-being. When your gut is healthy, your body works smoothly. But when something is wrong, your body often sends warning signals. Unfortunately, many people ignore these signs or assume they are caused by stress, lack of sleep, or a busy lifestyle. Recognising the early signs of poor gut health can help you make changes before the problem becomes worse. Here are 10 signs of an unhealthy gut that you should never ignore.
Read NowWhat Creatinine Level Indicates Kidney Failure? Doctors Explain
22 Jun 20266 Min Read
Creatinine is a waste product produced by your muscles every day. Healthy kidneys remove it from the blood and pass it out through urine. When the kidneys are not working properly, creatinine can build up in the bloodstream. Seeing a high creatinine level in your blood test report can be working. Many people immediately think it's kidney failure. However, creatinine levels alone do not tell the whole story. Doctors look at several factors, including your age, overall health, and kidney function tests, before determining how well your kidneys are working.
Read NowStomach Cancer Lump: What It Feels Like & When to See a Doctor
22 Jun 20267 Min Read
Finding an unusual bump or swelling on your body can be alarming. If you notice a change in your tummy, it is completely natural to feel a wave of anxiety and wonder what it might mean. One thought that might cross your mind is whether it could be a stomach cancer lump. Feeling concerned is completely valid, but it helps to know that most abdominal changes may have very simple explanations. Understanding what to look for can help quiet some of that worry.
Read NowUnderstanding CT scan and its role in cancer detection.
15 Jun 20268 Min Read
When doctors suspect a serious health condition, imaging tests often play a crucial role in diagnosis. One of the most used imaging tools is a computed tomography (CT) scan. A CT scan provides detailed cross-sectional images of the body`s organs, tissues, and blood vessels. These images can reveal abnormalities that may indicate the presence of cancer. However, understanding what a CT scan can and cannot do is important for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. However, can a CT scan detect cancer? A CT scan is extremely important in detecting cancer, but it is not always definitive on its own
Read NowTypes of Nerve Injury: Causes, Symptoms & Recovery Guide
15 Jun 20266 Min Read
Nerve injuries happen when a nerve is pinched, stretched, cut or damaged. These injuries can cause numbness, tingling, or sharp pain. Nerves are cords that carry electrical signals from your brain and spinal cord (central nervous system) to the rest of your body and vice versa. These signals allow you to move your muscles and feel sensations like touch and temperature. When a nerve is damaged, these signals are disrupted.
Read Now