Knee replacement surgery is one of the most important decisions you will make. Your surgeon will help you decide if it’s the right choice for you. Here are some common questions and resources that may be helpful when considering knee surgery.
Some implants have lasted 15 to 20 years. But just like your natural joint, your new parts can wear out over time. How long yours lasts could depend on:
For the most success after surgery, you will need to keep up with physical therapy and exercise and follow all of your surgeon’s instructions. Physical therapy may start the same day as your surgery and last up to 4 to 6 months after your surgery. You will need to exercise. This helps your blood flow and makes your muscles stronger. This will help you move around better. You will learn exercises in physical therapy.
Knee replacement is a major surgery. Although it works very well in most cases, some patients may have problems. Complications could include:
To lower your risks for problems during surgery, your surgeon may ask you to get some tests ahead of time. You can likely get these from your primary care doctor. You also may need to have any dental problems fixed before surgery. If needed, you should get your home ready so that you have a clear place to walk and can avoid falling.
Each patient is different. Your surgeon will help you decide when it is safe for you to do certain things. But, most patients are able to get back to normal activities in 3 to 4 weeks. These are things like climbing stairs and possibly driving.
You can likely get back to other activities like golf, tennis and swimming after your surgeon says it is safe. Surgeons normally suggest you stay away from high-impact or contact sports. These put too much pressure on your joints and could cause problems.
Aircraft mechanic Jerry Smith was experiencing constant knee pain as a result of a broken leg earlier in life.
Knee pain was limiting Duane from doing what he loves — working as a CNC operator with Exactech during the week and finishing home improvement projects on the weekend.
Total knee replacement surgery with ExactechGPS helped Barbara get back to teaching aerobic exercise at her local senior center.
Rollie was struggling with knee pain that limited his everyday activities. After a knee replacement with Dr. Jeffrey Ginther and the ExactechGPS technology, Rollie was able to get back to his active lifestyle.
The information contained within this website is for educational purposes only and is not providing medical advice. This information is not intended to replace the expert guidance of your orthopaedic surgeon. Please direct any questions or concerns you may have to your orthopaedic surgeon. Decisions concerning patient care and treatment should be made solely by your physician(s). With any surgery, there are potential risks and results will vary depending on the patient.
