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How a Patient Prepares Since knee replacement is considered major surgery, it's important that you physically and mentally ready yourself in the days and weeks prior to your surgery. Proper advance preparation will help reduce complications both during and after the operation, as well as speed up your recovery. Also, consider your regular activities and try to be forward-thinking in your planning. For example, if you need a special parking permit - common for up to three months following knee replacement surgery - the time to discuss it with your surgeon is before, not after, your operation. Reva's corner:
Make sure you stop taking any herbal vitamins, anticoagulants, and anti-inflammatory medications. Stop taking any herbs, especially the "G" herbs such as garlic, gingko, and ginseng. These herbs mimic anticoagulants (natural blood thinners). Testing Medical Evaluation: Your medical history and a series of diagnostic tests will reveal if you have any conditions that might interfere with a successful knee surgery. Diagnostic Tests: Used to help plan your surgery, tests include blood work, x-rays of the joint, a urine sample and possibly an MRI scan. You may also choose to donate blood in case you need a transfusion after surgery (this is called an autologous donation). Health Planning Lose Weight: If you are overweight, it's a good idea to drop some pounds before surgery if possible. Losing weight will minimize stress on your new prosthetic knee. Insurance Next: How a Surgeon Prepares
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Once
you and your doctor have determined that knee replacement surgery is the best
course of action for you, you'll begin getting ready for surgery. While that
includes a series of medical evaluations (including your medical history and
a physical) and diagnostic tests, it also involves a number of health and home
planning activities.
