Knee replacement surgery, also known as knee arthroplasty, is a common procedure designed to relieve pain and restore function in patients suffering from severe knee conditions, such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or post-traumatic arthritis. Understanding what to expect during the surgery can help ease anxiety and prepare patients for the journey ahead. Here’s a detailed overview of the knee replacement surgery process, with insights from renowned orthopedic surgeon Dr. Shohab Hyder Shaikh.
1. Preoperative Preparations
Before the surgery, patients undergo several preparatory steps to ensure a successful procedure:
- Medical Evaluation: A comprehensive evaluation is conducted to assess the patient’s overall health. This may include blood tests, imaging studies, and discussions about current medications.
- Consultation with Dr. Shohab Hyder Shaikh: During the preoperative consultation, Dr. Shohab Hyder Shaikh discusses the procedure in detail, addresses any concerns, and sets realistic expectations for recovery.
- Anesthesia Discussion: The anesthesiologist will discuss anesthesia options with the patient, which may include general anesthesia (where the patient is fully asleep) or regional anesthesia (where only the lower body is numbed).
2. The Day of Surgery
On the day of the surgery, patients should arrive at the hospital with ample time to complete necessary preparations:
- Check-In: Patients will check in and complete any final paperwork. Medical staff will review the patient’s medical history and confirm the surgery details.
- Preoperative Instructions: Patients may receive instructions regarding fasting and medications to take prior to surgery.
3. During the Surgery
Knee replacement surgery typically takes 1 to 2 hours. Here’s what happens during the procedure:
- Anesthesia Administration: Patients will receive the chosen anesthesia to ensure comfort throughout the surgery.
- Incision: Dr. Shohab Hyder Shaikh will make an incision on the front of the knee to access the joint. The size and location of the incision may vary based on the surgical technique used.
- Damaged Tissue Removal: The damaged cartilage and bone from the knee joint are removed to prepare for the artificial implant.
- Implant Placement: Once the joint is prepared, the orthopedic surgeon will place the artificial knee implant, securing it with cement or using a press-fit method, depending on the specific implant design.
- Closing the Incision: After the implant is securely in place, the surgeon will close the incision using sutures or staples. A sterile dressing will be applied to protect the surgical site.
4. Postoperative Recovery
After the surgery, patients will be moved to the recovery room for monitoring as they wake from anesthesia:
- Pain Management: Effective pain management is a priority. Dr. Shohab Hyder Shaikh and the medical team will ensure that patients are comfortable, often using a combination of medications to manage pain.
- Early Mobilization: Patients are usually encouraged to begin gentle movements and may start physical therapy within the first 24 hours after surgery. Early mobilization helps prevent complications such as blood clots and promotes faster recovery.
5. Hospital Stay
The length of the hospital stay can vary, but most patients can expect to remain in the hospital for 1 to 3 days post-surgery:
- Physical Therapy: Daily sessions with physical therapists will focus on regaining range of motion, strength, and mobility.
- Monitoring: Medical staff will closely monitor vital signs, pain levels, and the surgical site for any signs of complications.
6. Discharge and Home Recovery
Upon discharge, patients will receive instructions for at-home care, including:
- Activity Restrictions: Guidelines on activities to avoid and recommendations for using assistive devices, such as crutches or walkers.
- Follow-Up Appointments: Patients will have follow-up visits with Dr. Shohab Hyder Shaikh to monitor recovery progress and adjust rehabilitation plans as needed.
Conclusion
Knee replacement surgery can significantly improve quality of life for individuals suffering from knee pain and dysfunction. Understanding what to expect during the procedure, from preoperative preparations to postoperative care, can help alleviate anxiety and foster a smoother recovery process. With the expertise of Dr. Shohab Hyder Shaikh and a dedicated healthcare team, patients can look forward to regaining mobility and returning to their daily activities after surgery.