An injury or worn-out joints and ligaments may warrant an orthopedic surgeon's recommendation for a patient to seek a knee replacement. Learn how this type of surgery will be executed and what can be expected during the recovery phase.
Knee Injuries And Lifestyle Concerns
A knee replacement surgery may be recommended to someone who was injured severely while playing a sport. It may also be recommended to an individual who is older and who has placed a lot of strain on their knees. Knee injuries and lifestyle choices often play a role in whether surgery will be advised. A knee replacement surgical procedure is an elective procedure. It is helpful in reducing discomfort and increasing the range of motion in the knee area.
Bones are assessed during a presurgical examination. An orthopedic doctor will examine the range of motion that a patient has in the knee area. They will also take digital scans of the knees. A doctor may notice worn joints, weak ligaments, and other issues that will lead them to recommend that a surgical procedure is performed.
Plastic and metal parts will be attached to resurfaced joints during knee replacement surgery. Ligaments that cannot adequately hold joints together may also be replaced. Any parts of the knee that are not showing signs of distress will not be modified during a surgical procedure. The surgical procedure will involve making an incision above the knee, prior to the replacement being performed.
The Recovery
After knee surgery is performed, a patient will be more prone to suffering from a blood clot. An orthopedic surgeon may prescribe a blood thinner for a patient to take. They will likely advise a patient to get up and get moving, soon after surgery. It will be painful to walk at first and a patient may need to rely upon the use of a mobility aid. It is beneficial for a patient to move around soon after surgery, however. This will get the blood flowing in the leg and around the knee, which will aid in preventing a blood clot.
A patient should make arrangements to have a mobility aid and safety devices at their disposal. A walker, a cane, and safety rails can help an individual who is recuperating at home. A patient may need to meet with an orthopedic specialist in the future. A specialist will monitor how a patient is recovering from the surgery.
For more info about knee replacement surgery, contact a local company.
Share