What to Expect During Knee Surgery
- Common problems associated with the knee include sports- or work-related injuries, arthritis, weakening of the joint due to age, and inflammation. These problems result in pain and reduced joint function.
- Knee surgery is performed on patients between the ages of 20 and 60.
- An x-ray is done to evaluate the bones of the knee. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may also be performed to provide more information about the soft tissue. Blood tests can determine if the joint condition is caused by arthritis.
- The patient is placed under general, regional (affecting only one section of the body) or local (affecting just one part of the body) anesthesia. The surgeon makes one or several incisions in the area and uses a small scope to identify the specific problem, such as a ligament tear. Small surgical tools can then be used to make the repairs. The procedure can last 45 minutes to 2 hours.
- Following the procedure, you may have to restrict your regular activities for six to eight weeks and will need to keep weight off the knee. Physical therapy or specialized knee exercises will be required to aid in recovery and prevent complications.
- Patients may not recover full knee mobility following the surgery, but the strength of the knee muscles before the injury, as well as the patient's commitment to physical therapy or exercise after surgery, will determine the extent of recovery.
