Preparation for Surgery
Before the surgery, the area around your knee must be free from any infections, irritations or swelling. You need to have a physical to make sure your body is ready. You may need to stop taking some of your medications and delay dental treatments before and after the surgery to prevent any bacteria in your bloodstream from causing an infection.
Resurfacing the Femur Bone
The surgeon removes any damaged cartilage and bone from your knee joint and reshapes the end of your femur or thigh bone in order to fit the artificial joint. Artificial ends made of metal or plastic are cemented or placed at the end of the femur.
Reshaping the Tibia Bone
Next, the surgeon reshapes the end of the tibia or lower leg bone and fits it with an artificial end. Depending on the type of surgery, the ligaments are left intact or replaced by an artificial piece.
Repairing and Fitting the Knee Cap
The surgeon also resurfaces the top and/or front of the knee cap. She then slides it into place between the resurfaced areas of the femur and tibia. This concludes the surgery. The process takes about two hours. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics and pain medication as well as drugs to prevent blood clots, if necessary.
Post-surgery Treatment
You need to stay in the hospital for a few days or up to a week, depending on your recovery. A physical therapist will help you learn to walk and move with your new joint. You will need to use a walker or crutches until your knee heals. Exercises will help you regain strength and your range of motion. It may take a few months to fully recover.
