Your knees bear the brunt of your body weight and absorb the shock from walking, jumping, and running. Over time, they can become worn and damaged from use, sports injuries, and degenerative diseases, but knee replacement surgery may be able to alleviate discomfort and restore function. If you're considering this procedure, review a few frequently asked questions to help you prepare.

Common Questions About Knee Replacement

Why is the procedure done?

A replacement procedure will alleviate pain caused by severe knee damage. This will improve your quality of life and allow you to do activities that were previously limited by your pain levels. Common causes of pain and damage to the knee include repeated sports injuries and severe forms of arthritis, such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Who’s a good candidate?

There aren't any weight or age restrictions for this surgery, but you should be in good enough health to have general anesthesia. You must also have a support system at home to help you recover. The surgery is recommended for those with knee deformities, chronic inflammation, and severe pain, and for whom other treatments didn't work.

How do you prepare?

Preparation involves a thorough medical history and examination to ensure you're in good health. You'll have a consultation with an orthopedic surgeon to explain the procedure, recovery, and its benefits. They'll then evaluate your knee and run tests to determine the condition of the bones and tissues.

You can't eat for eight hours before the procedure, and you'll have to sign a consent form. Transportation, help around the house, and physical therapy appointments should be set before the surgery.

What happens during the procedure?

During your knee replacement, you'll receive general anesthesia, with an anesthesiologist monitoring your vitals during surgery. The surgeon will make an incision above your knee to remove damaged bone and tissue, resurfacing the joint to fit the prosthesis. The prosthetic will be positioned and cemented in place, and then the incision will be closed and bandages will be applied.

What does the healing process look like?

After a few days in the hospital, you'll be discharged home with strict wound care and physical therapy instructions. You won't be on dietary restrictions, but your activity will be limited for several weeks as you heal. You'll need assistance around the house during that time, and you may be given a cane or walker to help you get around. Full recovery may take a few months.

If you’re ready to discuss knee replacement with an experienced orthopedic surgeon, contact Orthopaedic Associates of Rochester in NY. They work with most insurances and coordinate with local hospitals to perform procedures. Their office is state-of-the-art, with two X-ray machines onsite, and they offer prompt care for emergencies. To schedule your consultation, call them at (585) 723­-3000.