What happens during knee replacement surgery ?

When a knee replacement is performed, the bone and cartilage on the end of the thigh bone (femur) and top of the shin bone (tibia) are removed. This is performed using precise instruments to create exact surfaces to accommodate the implant. A metal and plastic knee replacement implant is then placed to function as a new knee joint. Depending on the condition of the cartilage on the undersurface of the kneecap, this may also be replaced.

You will be admitted to the hospital on the day of your scheduled surgery. You will be asked to arrive to the hospital two hours before the start of your surgery. After admission, you will move into the pre-operative area where you will be evaluated by an anesthesiologist. The most common type of anesthesia is general, in which you are given anesthesia through an intravenous (IV) drip that keeps you asleep for the entire surgery. Your anesthesiologist also may offer you an epidural or spinal injection or a combination of the above. You will discuss this with your anesthesiologist prior to your surgery.

What is a rotating knee replacement?

Rotating knee replacements have been advertised recently on TV and in magazines. These implants are designed to more closely replicate normal knee motion. Unfortunately, the rotating knee replacements have not been shown to increase the longevity of the implant. Studies are currently taking place to determine if these rotating knee replacements may be better than standard knee replacements.

How Long Does It Take To Perform A Knee Replacement?

Knee replacement surgery itself takes about 90 minutes, but time in the operating room is longer. You are left with about an eight inch incision over the front of the knee. The incision is most commonly closed with metal clips called ‘staples.’ These clips remain in the skin for about two weeks and are then removed in the office. Removal of the metal clips is almost pain-free.

If you are advised knee replacement surgery, it is natural that you would want to know more about it. Wecareindia.com gives you all the information, which you wish to know, It explains, in simple words, what to expect before, during and after the surgery. It is meant to help you understand the intricacies of this complex surgery. In simple language, you are told , what will be done for you by the medical and paramedical staff and what you are required to do to achieve the desired end result. It is recommended that you go through this booklet before you undergo the surgery. If you have any questions, our team of doctors will be happy to answer them.