5 Questions to Ask Before Knee Surgery.

Knee replacement surgery is a major procedure that can improve mobility and relieve chronic pain for individuals with knee-related conditions. Whether caused by arthritis, injury, or degeneration, knee replacement often becomes necessary when other treatments fail. Before making this decision, gathering essential information is crucial. Understanding knee replacement surgery helps set realistic expectations and ensures better recovery preparation.

This blog explores five key questions to ask your doctor before knee replacement surgery. These questions will help you make an informed decision, ensuring you fully understand the procedure, benefits, risks, and long-term outcomes.

1. What Are My Treatment Options Besides Surgery?

Knee replacement is often considered when non-surgical treatments no longer provide relief. Exploring alternative options can help manage pain and improve mobility.

Physical therapy, including exercises like leg raises and hamstring stretches, strengthens muscles around the knee, enhancing function and reducing joint pressure.

Medications such as NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen) and corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid injections offer temporary relief.

Weight management and lifestyle changes, including low-impact exercises like swimming and yoga, reduce knee stress.

Braces and orthotic inserts provide stability, while walking aids help minimize strain.

Additionally, alternative therapies like acupuncture, chiropractic care, and PRP therapy may reduce inflammation and support healing, providing options to delay or avoid surgery.

If non-surgical treatments fail, knee replacement might be the next step. A doctor’s evaluation can help determine if surgery is necessary.

2. What Type of Knee Surgery Do I Need?

Knee surgery types depend on the severity of the condition and joint damage.

Total Knee Replacement (TKR) is the most common procedure, used for severe arthritis, where the damaged joint is replaced with an artificial implant.

Partial Knee Replacement (PKR) is ideal for patients with damage in just one part of the knee, preserving more of the natural joint.

Arthroscopic surgery is a minimally invasive procedure to repair cartilage, remove loose fragments, or treat early-stage arthritis, offering quicker recovery.

Discussing these options with your doctor helps determine the best procedure for your condition and lifestyle.

3. What Are the Risks and Complications?

Like any surgery, knee replacement carries risks that should be understood for better preparation and prevention. Infections, though rare, can occur at the incision site, but proper wound care and antibiotics reduce this risk. Blood clots, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), can form post-surgery, but blood thinners and mobility help prevent them. Implant issues may arise over time, requiring revision surgery. Additionally, nerve or blood vessel damage, though uncommon, could lead to numbness or weakness. Understanding these risks helps manage expectations.

Being aware of these risks ensures you take the right precautions during recovery.

4. What Will My Recovery Process Look Like?

Recovery depends on the procedure, overall health, and rehabilitation. Initial recovery lasts 6 to 12 weeks, while full recovery can take a year.

Key Stages of Recovery:

After knee surgery, patients typically stay in the hospital for 1-3 days, with knee movement beginning within 24 hours. During the first few weeks, physical therapy starts immediately to regain strength and flexibility, and assistive devices like walkers may be needed.

Over the next 3-6 months, patients gradually return to daily activities, though high-impact exercises should be avoided. Consistent therapy and proper care during recovery ensure a smoother healing process and long-term mobility.

Pain management, regular therapy, and following medical advice are crucial for a smooth recovery.

5. What Will Be the Long-Term Outcomes of the Surgery?

Knee replacement is highly effective in relieving pain and restoring mobility, but understanding the long-term outcomes helps set realistic expectations.

Implant Lifespan: Modern knee implants last 15-20 years, depending on activity level, weight, and joint health.

Post-Surgery Lifestyle: Low-impact activities like walking, swimming, and cycling are encouraged, while high-impact sports should be avoided.

Success Rate: Over 90% of knee replacement surgeries are successful, significantly improving patients’ quality of life.

Conclusion

Deciding on knee surgery is a major step, and being well-informed can make a difference in your experience and recovery. By asking the right questions, you gain clarity on whether surgery is necessary, the best procedure, potential risks, and expected recovery.

Dr. Shekhar Laghvendu , an expert in knee, hip, and elbow replacement in Nagpur, emphasizes patient education before surgery. He advises that understanding the procedure, following rehabilitation, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle post-surgery are key to long-term success. Consulting an experienced specialist like Dr. Shekhar ensures you make the best decision for your knee health and overall well-being.