Questions
Are there any complications ?
Yes: a total knee replacement can give rise to both early and late complications.
Among the early complications are, rarely, a cutaneous necrosis, phlebitis, haematoma, paralysis of the external sciatic nerve poplity, fracture of the tibia or femur ...: these complications, with a frequency ranging between 0,3% and 2% according to various studies, can be serious and require complementary surgical operations. Infection is found in less than 1% of cases. Every effort is made to avoid this complication. It is a serious complication and often requires re-intervention and the administration of antibiotics.
Among the late complications are mobilisation of the prosthesis, often related to the wear in the polyethylene. Infection is occasionally incurred remotely: it is caused by bacteria which, transported in the blood, localize around the implant. For this scenario it is necessary for there to be a remote infection: a whitlow, osseous infection, urinary or dental infection ... The infection must be tracked and treated.
How long is it necessary to wait before walking ?
Generally the patient is able to walk quite soon: depending on the health of the patient, one, two or three days after intervention. Obviously for the first steps, your kinesitherapist will help you to walk with two crutches or a walking frame.
How many days of hospitalization are likely?
Hospitalization is about 5-7 days: a stay in a rehabilitation center is generally advised.
- I will not feel any more pain after ...?
The aim of a knee prosthesis is to relieve pain: in general, for 95% of operated patients, the pains disappear and one year after the operation, the patient feels his replaced knee to be "normal". Often, indeed, the operated knee continues to improve during the whole first year.
- After how long can I return home ?
The return home following rehabilitation is at about 3 weeks to 8 weeks after intervention. Certain young patients, with suitable support, can return home direct from surgical hospitalization, 5-6 days after intervention: however, it is not the rule.
- Can I take a shower?
Personal hygiene before and after any intervention in orthopedic surgery is very important: nevertheless, the wound should not be allowed to become wet - by taking a bath for example , because the risk of infection is high if correct healing is not obtained. Nowadays there is the possibility of applying water-tight bandages, which allow one to take a shower without any problem.
- When is it necessary to remove the wires?
Wires fall away within 10-15 days, if they are the resorbable type. If not, they should be removed approximately 14 days after intervention (and you will not have any pain....).