Total Knee Replacement
When your knee is severely damaged or injured, your orthopedic doctor may recommend an artificial knee replacement surgery. During the knee replacement surgery, an orthopedic surgeon will replace the damaged joint surfaces in your knee with prostheses, or artificial parts.
University Health specialists are highly experienced in even the most complicated knee replacement surgeries. We also offer minimally invasive knee replacement options that might work for your condition.
During Knee Replacement Surgery
Before surgery, your orthopedic surgeon will evaluate your medical history and perform a thorough physical exam to ensure that you are in good health for the surgery. Once you are cleared for surgery, the procedure to replace the knee will take about two hours to complete. After the damaged bone and cartilage of the knee is removed, your orthopedic surgeon will put the new artificial knee in place.
The most common type of knee prostheses used in replacement surgery is a cemented prosthesis. A knee prosthesis is made up of metal with ceramic or plastic and is attached to the bone with a type of epoxy (a special adhesive).
After Knee Replacement Surgery
A typical knee replacement surgery lasts up to two hours. After the surgery, you are moved to your private room.
After your surgery, it’s important to get up and moving as quickly as possible. Your nursing and rehabilitation therapy team will help with this during your short hospital stay.
Your physical therapist will make an individualized plan to help you move through different conditions, like going from one surface to another. We strongly encourage your family and friends to participate and learn how to help you once you get home. The nursing team will help with your pain control so that you can participate in mobility training and experience a successful recovery.
Your case management team will work with your care team to plan for your discharge from the hospital. The team will also discuss any recommended home care needs and arrange them before your discharge.
After Discharge From the Hospital
After you leave the hospital, you should follow up with your primary care physician. You will also have follow-up appointments with your orthopedic surgeon. University Health can seamlessly coordinate your care, and your team will work together with you every step of the way.
Our comprehensive program is designed to get you to the best possible outcome as soon as possible. After leaving the hospital, you may need outpatient rehabilitation, which we provide at multiple clinics throughout San Antonio.
