What anaesthesia is used? - Knee replacement can be done under spinal, epidural or general anaesthesia. What is most suitable for you is decided on an individual basis.
Preparing for Surgery - Orthopaedic Evaluation - The Orthopaedic Surgeon will discuss with you various aspects of the surgery.
Medical Evaluation - For any specific other medical illnesses a physician may be involved.
Sites of Infection - There must be no active sites of infection. Common sites are dental, chest and urinary. Tell your doctor of any infection if present.
Tests - X-Rays, blood test, urine test and an ECG will be required. Special tests like 2D Echo of heart are done on an individual basis.
Blood Donation - You may be advised to donate your own blood prior to surgery. This will then be used for yourself after the surgery.
Blood Thinners - like Asprin, Disprin, Ecosprin, Persantin, Clopegril, Warfarin etc must be stopped one week prior to surgery.
Admission - You will usually be admitted on the evening before the surgery. Please bring all your reports and Xrays to the hospital.
Before the surgery -
The resident doctor and anaesthetist will come and meet you prior to the surgery.
You will be told to remain starving for 6 hours before the surgery.
Regular neccessary medication should be taken on the day of surgery with a sip of water.
Brushing teeth on the morning of the surgery is permitted.
Remove dentures, contact lenses, spectacles, jewellery and valuables before going for your operation.
Before the surgery -
You are usually shifted back to the room. You will have an intravenous line through which fluid and nourishment is given.
Antibiotics are administered through the line to prevent infection.
Blood clots are prevented by the use of compression devices and blood thinners.
Pain is minimal as various pain killers and pain relieving methods such as epidural or patient controlled analgesia are used.
Oral intake is usually started 6 hours after surgery.
Physiotherapy is usually started 6 hours after surgery.
Hospitalisation is usually for 3 to 7 days.
“For years I put off doing the operation because I was very scared. The surgery was so painless and recovery so fast, that I wish I had done it earlier.”
