Preparing for Surgery Day

Sometimes a knee replacement is the only option for reducing pain and restoring a normal activity level. If your surgeon has recommended knee replacement surgery for you, and you have agreed to such surgery, here is an idea of what to expect during the days leading up to and on the day of your surgery.

Pre-Surgery Routines

Once you and your orthopaedic surgeon have decided to proceed with knee replacement surgery, there are several activities that must occur to help make sure all goes well. First you will have your initial surgical consultation, which will include pre-operative X-rays, a complete past medical history, a complete past surgical history and a complete list of all medications and allergies. It is important to disclose all treatments and medications you are on, as well as all your health history to the surgeon. This consultation will also include an orthopaedic examination and discussion of the knee replacement surgery procedure.

Next you will have a complete physical examination. Your surgeon will determine if you are in the best possible condition to undergo knee surgery.

Your surgeon may recommend that you see a physical therapist before surgery to learn exercises to begin prior to surgery. You will also get an overview of the rehabilitation process after knee replacement surgery. This will prepare you better for your post-operative care. Remember to ask your surgeon and hospital for a quotation for their fees, as well as the cost of the implant and other goods that may be used.

Preparation for the Hospital

You may want to bring the following items to the hospital for your knee replacement surgery:

• Clothing: underwear, socks, t-shirts, exercise shorts for rehabilitation
• Footwear: walking or tennis shoes for rehab; slippers for hospital room
• Walking aids: walker, cane, wheelchair, or crutches if used prior to surgery
• Medical scheme, gap cover or other health cover information

The evening before surgery you should not eat or drink after midnight or as instructed by the anaesthetist or surgeon. Your surgeon may provide you with special soap. You should shower and use this soap to scrub the surgical area for five minutes, or as long as prescribed. Prepare your belongings for the hospital, relax, and get a good night’s rest before your surgery day.