Saurabh Hospital :: Surat :: Gujarat

Having decided to perform the total knee replacement surgery for you, various members of the staff will help you to prepare for the surgery as well as your recovery. At any time, if you have any doubts or require any clarification, please feel to call on your surgeon.

•	An anaesthetist will visit you for pre-operative examination and assessment, if it has not been done before.
•	An orthopaedic team will again visit you to give a final check and be available for any last minute questions.
•	Please make sure you inform about all the medicines you are taking at the moment for Hypertension, Diabetes etc. to the visiting Physician

The Surgery

During the operation, the diseased knee joint will be replaced by an artificial implant. The intervention will be made through a skin section in a vertical mid-line incision on the surface of the muscles near the knee joint.
The procedure of implanting an artificial knee joint is a routine operation. For this reason, possible complications should not be a cause of concern; rather, they should be seen as part of careful patient information.
Total Knee Replacement surgery involves the removal of the diseased and / or arthritic ends of the femur and tibia and a few cuts to shape the bones to fit the components. After these cuts are made, a metal component is secured to the femur and plastic components are secured to your tibia and to the back of your patella or knee cap. The knee is now moved through its range of movement to see if the total knee joint is stable. With everything secure, the soft tissues are sutured back together.

Safety Precautions

•	Do not soak in water until your physician approves, and your incision is completely healed.
•	Continue to use your crutches or walker until your doctor tells you to stop.
•	Continue to wear your white surgical stockings (TED hose) until your doctor tells you to stop
•	Follow the weight bearing guidelines giving by your doctor
•	Do not drive until your doctor approves
•	Do not jump or twist
•	Do not jerk or pull on anything
•	Do not run or jog
•	Notify your doctor or dentist that you have an artificial joint. This is important for any procedure for routine dental cleaning
•	Do not life and carry anything over 15 to 20 pounds
•	Remove throw rugs and objects that are below knee level

Call your doctor if

•	You have any numbness or decreased motion of your foot or leg
•	You have excessive pain, swelling or drainage
•	The edges of your wound do not seem to be healing together
•	You have a fever or any signs or symptoms of an infection

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy is an essential part of your recovery following a total knee replacement.

Physiotherapy aims to:
•	Keep your chest clear
•	Provide an exercise program to improve joint movement, strength and flexibility
•	Improve mobility and confidence with an appropriate walking aid

The Physiotherapist will initially review you at the orthopaedic clinic, and assess your knee movement and strength. You will be provided with an appropriate walking aid and exercise program. Please practice both prior to your admission as this will assist your recovery. A list of exercises has been provided in this book.
At the clinic, the Physiotherapist will discuss your recovery and progress goals following surgery. These goals are listed on the following page.
A "CPM" (continuous passive motion) machine may be used following surgery to improve the flexibility of your knee. The use of this machine is dependent upon your surgeon's requirements.

Goals Following Surgery

The Physiotherapist will visit you daily to assist you to become independent, safe and confident with: