Knee replacement: Preparation and recovery
If you are considering knee replacement surgery, you might be wondering how best to prepare for this procedure, whether the surgery is right for you and if there are different types of knee replacement surgeries to choose from.
We found out the answers to such questions by speaking with leading orthopaedic knee and hip surgeon, Mr Rohit Jain. We learned how ‘pre-habilitation’ prepares patients who are undergoing knee replacement and how it helps to promote a quicker recovery.
How should a patient prepare for a knee replacement surgery?
Knee replacement surgery is a collaborative effort involving the surgeon, patient and physiotherapist. Each team member plays a crucial role in achieving a successful outcome.
Patients who maintain good health and have a strong baseline function generally perform exceptionally well after knee replacement surgery.
Preparing and enhancing functional capacity is essential for enduring and recovering from major surgery. This is known as pre-habilitation, a multidimensional approach that addresses medical issues, incorporates physical exercises, promotes healthy eating and manages stress and anxiety before surgery.
Prior to knee replacement surgery, patients are enrolled in ‘Joints School’, a physiotherapist-led programme designed to educate them about the surgical journey and encourage pre- and post-operative exercises.
The success of knee replacement and recovery hinges on a strong partnership between the specialist team and the patient.
How long does it take to recover from knee replacement surgery?
The hospital stay after knee replacement surgery typically ranges from 48 to 72 hours. Our enhanced recovery programme enables patients to move as soon as possible, leading to faster recovery and a shorter hospital stay. This quicker mobility facilitates quicker knee function restoration.
Driving can usually resume around six weeks post-surgery. Swelling generally decreases within three months. Full functional recovery of the knee can take up to 12 to 18 months.
What are the different types of knee replacement surgery?
There are two main types of knee replacement surgery: total knee replacement and partial knee replacement.
Prosthetic implants can be ‘off-the-shelf’ or bespoke. Choosing a knee prosthetic is similar to buying a suit: you can opt for a standard size or get one tailored to your measurements.
Historically, knee prosthesis sizes were limited but now a wide range is available. We can match patient knees to prosthetics that closely resemble their size.
In some cases, CT scans enable 3D planning and 3D printing of custom knee implants. This custom technology has been available for the past three to four years.
Another advancement in knee replacement surgery is robotics. Computerised technology now assists in precisely placing the various components of a knee replacement, achieving the most accurate positioning possible.
If you currently suffer from knee pain, feel free to visit Mr Rohit Jain’s Top Doctors profile to book a consultation with him.
