FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
KNEES

How long does the joint replacement surgery take?

Total knee and partial knee take about 1 hour of surgery time.

How long will I be in the hospital?

Partial Knee Replacement patients usually go home the same day. Total Knee replacement patients spend 1-2 nights in the hospital, although ome patients may be candidates for outpatient same-day release. 

When can I walk on my new knee?

We get all of our patients up, moving and walking on the same day of surgery. Our physical therapists will teach you the best ways to get in and out of bed and how to walk to strengthen and rehabilitate your new knee. You will most likely need a walker for the first week or two after surgery.

When can I take a shower?

Upon leaving the hospital there will be a clear bandage over the wound. This bandage is waterproof and you may shower immediately. The bandage will stay on until you have your post-operative appointment with Dr. Bryan. 

When do I return for my post-operative appointment?

We prefer to see our total knee replacement patients about 2-3 weeks after surgery for their post-operative visit. The post-operative visit includes x-rays and wound assessment.

How much help am I going to need after surgery?

Regardless of type of replacement, you will be up and walking immediately. You will be able to take care of basic activities by yourself. You will be much slower after surgery and you may need help with more complex tasks. We prefer that patients have someone at home all the time for the first few days after hospital discharge. Following the first few days, patients may be alone as long as they can reach others for assistance, if needed.

When can I drive after surgery?

Total and partial knee replacements should not drive for 2-3 weeks, depending on which knee was replaced.

How much physical therapy will I need?

Everyone is different in their therapy protocol, but generally total knee replacement patients need 6-12 weeks of therapy. Total knee replacement patients begin therapy immediately after surgery.

How long will I need pain medication?

This is a very individual answer. Pain medication is necessary to participate in the therapy that is important to your overall healing and improvement. We ask that patients take pain medication only if they have pain and to try to discontinue use of narcotic medications within 4-6 weeks after surgery. Pain medications can only be refilled electronically and during business hours.

Do I have any life-long restrictions?

Total knee replacements were initially developed for pain relief. Today’s knee replacement patients are active individuals who want to return to an active lifestyle. The quality of the materials have dramatically improved and extended the lifespan of the replaced joint. We do not recommend that knee replacement patients begin or return to running or jogging for exercise. Walking is a better choice and reduces wear and tear on the replaced joint.

Do I have to do anything special when I go to the dentist?

We recommend that after knee replacement, all patients should take preventative antibiotics prior to any dental procedure for 1 year after their surgery. Furthermore, we ask that patients refrain from routine dental appointments in the first 3 months following knee replacement to reduce the risk of infection. If knee replacement is in your future, attending to dental issues is best done prior to surgery.