Your Knee

TKR Surgery
A total knee replacement involves cutting away the damaged bone of the knee joint and replacing it with a prosthesis. This "new joint" prevents the bones from rubbing together and provides a smooth knee joint. For more on Total Knee Replacement Surgery, please visit Total Knee Replacement.

The Procedure
Before you are taken to the operating room you’ll be given medication to help you relax, and the anesthesiologist will talk with you about the medications he’ll be using. In the operating room, you will be placed under full anesthesia.

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Recovery
After your surgery is completed, you will be transported to the recovery room for close observation of your vital signs, circulation, and sensation in your legs and feet. As soon as you awaken and your condition is stabilized, you will be transferred to your room.

When you wake up you will find a bulky dressing applied to your incision in order to maintain cleanliness and absorb any fluid. There may be a drain placed near your incision in order to record the amount of fluid being lost from the wound.

Your doctor may prescribe a PCA device (patient-controlled analgesia) that is connected to your IV. The unit is set to deliver a small, controlled flow of pain medication and is activated when you firmly press the button on your machine. Press the button any time you are having pain.

You may have a catheter inserted into your bladder as the side effects of anesthesia may make it difficult to urinate.

A continuous passive motion (CPM) unit may be placed on your leg to slowly and gently bend and straighten your knee. This device, if prescribed, is important for quickly regaining your knee range of motion.

Returning Home
Your readiness for discharge is directed by your surgeon, but in most cases you will be discharged when you can get out of bed on your own and walk with a walker or crutches, walk up and down three steps, bend your knee 90 degrees and straighten your knee.

At home you should begin ambulation with a cane as tolerated. Keep your incision clean and dry and watch closely for any signs of infection.

You’ll continue your home exercise program and go to outpatient physical therapy, where you will work on an advanced strengthening program and such programs as stationary cycling, walking, and aquatic therapy.

Your long-term rehabilitation goals are a range of motion from 100-120 degrees of knee flexion, mild or no pain with walking or other functional activities, and independence in all activities of daily living.