Last Updated on December 6, 2022 by Shabnam Sengupta
A knee replacement surgery is done to restore a damaged, worn, or diseased knee joint to remove pain and restore mobility. It is also called knee arthroplasty.
During this surgery, the surgeon caps the ends of the bones forming the knee joint. The knee replacement surgery is done to restore mobility and reduce pain with either plastic or metal components, or prosthetics or implants. Generally, it is believed to be a routine procedure. Several patients between 50 and 80 years of age undergo this procedure. If the patient follows the post-operative instructions, there is a high chance of restoring the function for a longer period of time.
Is knee replacement surgery a serious surgery?
Knee replacement surgery is major surgery. So, it usually is only recommended if other treatments, such as physiotherapy or steroid injections, have not reduced pain or improved mobility, and this surgery is the last resort.
It is relatively safe and effective for most people to relieve pain, correct leg deformity, and help them resume normal activities. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, “less than 2 percent of people experience severe complications, such as an infection or a blood clot”.
Can you go home the same day after knee replacement surgery?
Yes. But not in every case. The duration of your hospital stay can vary. Many patients having knee replacements don’t need to stay in the hospital very long. With advances in surgical procedures, it’s possible to go home the same day after your knee replacement surgery. Recently, outpatient knee replacement surgery, which is a total knee replacement procedure allows patients to return home on the same day of the operation, rather than staying on the hospital for 2-3 days. It is also called ‘rapid recovery knee replacement’, ‘same day knee replacement’, or ‘ambulatory knee replacement’.
Although, in other cases, such as old patients, co-morbid patients and patients with compromised health or immune system, the patient is kept in the hospital for a few days to look for any post-operative complication.
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