How to Prepare for Knee Replacement Surgery

If your knee is severely damaged by arthritis or an injury, and it is hard for you to do simple daily activities, such as walking and climbing stairs, and if medications are no longer helpful, then you may have to undergo a knee replacement.

Instructions

1. You need to have a medical evaluation and examination to determine if you are a good candidate for a knee replacement. Normally, you will have a complete physical examination a couple of weeks before surgery. This will help them decide if there are any complications preventing you from having the surgery. This may include blood and urine test and a cardiogram.

2. Sometimes during a knee replacement you may loose more blood than you really should. So, you may be advised to donate your own blood prior to the surgery. This way, it will be stored in the event you need blood after your surgery.

3. Your orthopaedic surgeon should know which medications you are taking. They will tell you which ones you should stop taking and which you should continue to take before surgery. This is very important because some medications for arthritis tend to thin your blood. You don't want thin blood before a surgery.

4. Although an infection after knee replacement is low, it can happen. If so, it can enter your bloodstream. You should have a dental check up for any significant dental diseases, including tooth extractions and periodontal work before your total knee replacement surgery to prevent an infection.

5. Normally after this surgery you will be able to walk with crutches or a walker very soon. But you will still need help for a few weeks. Mainly with bathing and other household chores. Therefore, if you live alone, you should speak to your surgeon's office about arrangements to have some assistance come to your home. There may also be a chance you will go to a facility to recover before going home. This option may be the best if you do not have friends and family who can help you.

6. There could be some modifications you will need to make in your home before the surgery. Some of which include: handrails in your bathtub and a shower seat for bathing. A chair that will be comfortable for you to sit it, yet easy to get out of. Probably one with arms. A footstool for resting your leg on. A toilet seat riser with arms.