Dr. Shubham Joshi

FAQ'S

 

1. How long does it take to recover from a knee replacement?

In the case of single-side TKR- Pt is mobilised on the same day of surgery & discharged in 2 to 3 days. Usually, it takes one month to recover. If B/L TKR- Pt mobilised next day of surgery & discharged in 5 days. It takes 6 to 8 weeks to recover.

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2. How painful is a total knee replacement?

Pain is very Pt specific & varies significantly. With improvements in surgical techniques & advancement in anaesthesia the pain has reduced remarkably, it is managed very well with the pain management team.

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3. Is a knee replacement a major operation?

Although it's done mostly in regional anaesthesia, avoiding all risks of General anaesthesia, it is considered as a major operation.

 

4. How do you know when you need a knee replacement?

Knee replacement surgery is unique in nature from pt perspective as it is mostly decided by pt not doctor. The doctor just advises but the final decision comes from pt side. Actually when these problems start coming more frequently then he/she may be the right candidate. Problems may be: Pain in joints at rest, stiffness, increasing dose of painkillers, arousal from sleep because of pain, deformity, radiologically decreased joint space & lastly pt demand.

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5. Can I stay alone after total knee replacement?

Like any other surgery, at least one attendant ( family member or nurse) should be with Pt for approximately 15 days to one month

 

6. What should I avoid after knee replacement?

Ideally, pt should avoid jumping, running, sudden jerk, sitting on the ground & high contact sports.

 

7. How do you sit on the toilet after knee surgery?

Pt should use the Western commode & not Indian toilet. Initially, for 2 to 4 weeks, Pt should use toilet enhancer temporarily fitted to the routine western toilet.

 

8. How long do you need help after knee replacement?

Single TKR- Help needed in initial 15 days B/L TKR- help needed 2 to 6 weeks.

 

9. Is a knee replacement more painful than a hip replacement?

Yes, Knee replacement is more painful than hip replacement but with the advent of newer pain management techniques it?s almost same.

 

10. Can you wait too long for a knee replacement?

Pt can wait for a longer period for knee replacement but the deformity will keep on increasing as it's a progressive disease & once it's too bad then the final functional outcome may not be that good.

 

11. How long will I need pain medication after total knee replacement?

Pt may need pain killers for 2 to 4 weeks after knee replacement. But simple paracetamol will suffice.

 

12. How long does it take to walk after a full knee replacement?

In single TKR- Pts are mobilised on the same day of surgery whereas in B/L TKR pts are mobilised next day of surgery.

 

13. How long do you need physical therapy after knee replacement?

Physiotherapy is important to regain muscle strength & attain the proper range of motion, therefore 2 to 4 weeks by the physiotherapist & try to make it routine to do daily by themselves.

 

14. Can I vacuum after knee replacement?

Yes, It can be done.

 

15. When can I shower after knee replacement surgery?

If dressing is with waterproof sealed adhesive dressing then pt can take bath after 3 days of surgery.

 

16. How long do you stay in hospital after a knee replacement?

In single TKR- hospital stay 2 to 3 days & in case of B/L TKR stay would be 5 to 6 days

 

17. What is the best pain medicine for after knee surgery?

The combination therapy would be better like paracetamol & diclofenac.

 

18. Do you need raised toilet seat after knee replacement?

For the initial 2 to 4 weeks, Pt should use a raised toilet seat but after that normal one to be used.

 

19. How long does pain and stiffness last after knee replacement?

It. varies significantly from person to person. Pain is almost over in 4 to 6 weeks & stiffness goes of only when pt. are doing proper supervised physiotherapy.

 

20. What is a primary knee replacement?

Primary TKR means when pt is undergoing knee replacement surgery for 1st time.

 

21. Can you have a second knee replacement?

Yes, Pt can have 2nd knee replacement which is known as revision TKR.

 

22. What are the symptoms of a failing knee replacement?

TKR is said to fail when there is aseptic or septic loosening.

 

23. Can I squat after knee replacement?

Pt are usually not encouraged to squat after TKR but some pts with a good range of motion can squat.

 

24. How long does it take for a knee replacement to feel normal?

Usually, pt will feel almost normal after knee replacement in around 3 to 6 months.

 

25. How long does it take to recover from knee revision surgery?

Although it depends on the extent of revision but it takes a longer time.