Knee Replacements
Operations
- Total Knee Replacement | The lower end of the femur and the upper end of the tibia are removed and replaced by a metal prosthetic joint. The patella may also be replaced. The most common indication for a knee replacement is osteoarthritis of the knee where the cartilage between the femur and tibia wears away.
- Partial or Unilateral Knee Replacement | Only half of the knee joint is replaced. The inner or outer half of the femur and tibia are removed and replaced by a metal prosthetic half-joint. This is for patients with arthritis on only one side of the knee.
- Revision Knee Replacement | A subsequent operation in a patient who has had a partial or a total knee replacement. The pre-existing prostheses are removed and are replaced with new prostheses.
The aim of a knee replacement is to:
- Remove diseased cartilage and bone
- Relieve knee pain
- Reposition the knee joint to be more anatomically correct
- Restore the knee to full function
A total knee replacement is a major operation. Patients are referred to medical specialists and other health professionals before the operation to ensure that you are fit for surgery. Additional X-Rays as well as blood and urine tests are required. Patients attend the Pre-operative Clinic with Sr Davids where you receive detailed information on what to expect and how to prepare for your operation. It is advisable to bring a care-giver along to this appointment.
Overview
| Total Knee Replacement | Partial Knee Replacement | |
|---|---|---|
| Anaesthesia | Spinal | Spinal |
| Duration of Procedure | 90 minutes | 60 minutes |
| Hospital Stay | 2 days | 1 day |
| Return to Driving | 3-4 weeks | 2-3 weeks |
| Return to Work | 6 weeks | 4 weeks |
| Total Recovery | 6-9 months | 6 months |
Overview
| Total Knee Replacement | |
|---|---|
| Anaesthesia | Spinal |
| Duration of Procedure | 90 minutes |
| Hospital Stay | 2 days |
| Return to Driving | 3-4 weeks |
| Return to Work | 6 weeks |
| Total Recovery | 6-9 months |
| Partial Knee Replacement | |
|---|---|
| Anaesthesia | Spinal |
| Duration of Procedure | 60 minutes |
| Hospital Stay | 1 day |
| Return to Driving | 2-3 weeks |
| Return to Work | 4 weeks |
| Total Recovery | 6 months |
Patient Checklist: Pre-operation
Book or confirm the date of your operation with Megan
T | 041 363 4622
E | theatre@peknees.co.za
Megan provides a dedicated service to patients undergoing knee replacements. She makes all the necessary peri-operative specialist referrals and gets medical aid authorisation. Your medical aid has a separate allowance for prostheses. Megan will provide quotes for the prostheses and get authorisation from your medical aid. Please note that the operation may be charged above medical aid rates and you may be liable for a co-payment.
On-line pre-admissions can be done by visiting the hospital website.
W | www.netcarehospitals.co.za
You will be given an appointment to see Sr Davids who will ensure that you are ready for your operation. You will require care and assistance at home upon discharge and it is advisable for the person who will help you in this regard to accompany you to this appointment.
No eating or drinking for at least 6 hours before the operation. You will be admitted on the day of the operation or the day before. Remember to bring any chronic medication that you take. A drip and a urinary catheter will be inserted before the operation.
Patient Checklist: Post-operation
The wound will be covered with a waterproof dressing that will only be changed at your post-operative visit. The knee will be covered with a bandage and may be slightly swollen.
The first post-operative night may be spent in high-care or in the general ward. You will be prescribed painkillers and anti-inflammatories. You will also be on medication to prevent blood clots.
You will be seen by a prosthetist who will provide the crutches and compression stockings that you will need. You will also have daily physiotherapy and you will only be discharged once you are able to walk and climb stairs with the aid of crutches.
Upon discharge you will be given instructions on looking after the wound and exercises for your knee. Medication will be prescribed for use at home. You may not drive and need to arrange a lift home.
You will be given a date for a post-operative appointment which is usually 10 days after the operation.