Pre-Surgery

A unicompartmental replacement or partial knee joint replacement is the replacement of one compartment of the knee.

Some of the factors you and your doctor should discuss in order to determine whether or not to have surgery include:

• The degree to which the surgeon believes that a knee replacement can improve function in your knee.
• Whether your age and physical condition (other than your knee) make you a good candidate for a successful partial knee surgery.
• The possibility that the knee implant will need to be replaced again at a later date, based on your age and activity level.

X-rays may be used to confirm the presence of arthritis and determine if this form of surgery will be beneficial to you. If doctor-recommended diet, exercise, and medication do not relieve your knee pain, a partial knee replacement may be the best option to restore a normal activity level. If surgery is your best option, we've provided some information of what to expect before you go to the hospital, as well as post-operative expectations.

Surgical consultation - This involves meeting with your surgeon to discuss the partial knee replacement procedure, as well as an orthopaedic examination. In some cases, your surgeon may want you to see a physical therapist prior to your surgery so that you can learn exercises before your surgery. At this time, you will learn more about the rehabilitation process after your partial knee replacement surgery.

Pre-operative testing - Testing before surgery is performed to evaluate your medical condition and usually includes blood tests, a urinalysis, a chest x-ray, and an electrocardiogram (EKG). These tests evaluate and assess your risks for anesthesia, to exclude occult urinary tract infections, and to see if you are mentally and physically prepared for your surgery. Your surgeon will decide if these tests will be administered in a local hospital or lab or in your primary care physician's office.

At this time, you may also want to donate blood just in case a blood transfusion is required after surgery.

Fasting - You will be given specific instructions by your surgeon about fasting before surgery. Usually patients are told not to eat or drink anything after midnight the day before the surgery.

What to take to the hospital - You should plan to take exercise clothing and comfortable shoes for rehabilitation: slippers with non-skid soles; walking aids such as a cane, crutches, wheelchair, or walker; and all of your insurance information. Most hospitals offer pre-admission, but take your insurance information with you anyway in case any questions arise. You should also take a list of phone numbers of friends and family members. Preparing your belongings for the hospital the night before is also a good idea.

What to Wear - Typically you will be asked to wear comfortable clothing to the hospital, with no makeup, jewelry, nail polish or dentures.

Medications - Your doctor will provide you with instructions about which medications you can take the morning of your surgery.

To see if the ADVANCE® Unicompartmental Knee is the right option for your knee replacement surgery, locate a physician in your area with our Physician Locator. Learn about other Wright options.

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