KNEE Replacement FAQs

Are there other treatments apart from a knee replacement?

Typically the first line of treatment for patients with knee arthritis is non-operative. Various other treatments exist that can be used prior to having surgery. The decision to have a knee replacement requires consideration. Usually patients elect to have a knee replacement when non-operative treatment has not relieved their symptoms, their activities are limited by knee pain and stiffness and their quality of life is suffering as result despite trying these other treatments. Dr Johns will discuss your treatment options with you regarding your knee condition.

How long does it take to recover after my knee replacement?

After your knee replacement walking is encouraged on the same day. The wound typically is healed 2 weeks after surgery. Most patients are able to the majority of their usual daily activities by 6 weeks after surgery. Your strength and endurance often improves around 3 months after surgery but maximal improvements may take longer to reach after surgery.

How long do I stay in hospital?

Many patients will only be in hospital for the day of their surgery and can go home on the same day. Sometimes patients will need to stay in hospital overnight due to a variety of factors including your overall condition prior to surgery. Occasionally patients will stay longer than that for example after a more complex revision surgery. Dr Johns will advise you of your expected length of stay in hospital.

When can I shower after surgery?

Your wound will have a dressing on it after surgery. You may shower 2 days after your surgery if you have a waterproof dressing on and intact. The dressing should remain intact until your wound review at 2 weeks after surgery. Your wound needs to be kept dry until 2 weeks after surgery. You should not submerge your wound in a bath or pool until 3 weeks after surgery.

When can I drive after surgery?

Patients are advised to not return to driving until they can brake quickly to perform an emergency stop and are no longer taking regular narcotic or opioid analgesia. Guidelines typically recommend that this will occur between 4 to 6 weeks post-operatively for a right knee or right hip replacement.

When can I return to work?

Returning to work varies with each occupation and the duties of each patient’s work. The average time to return to work varies from 2 to 12 weeks. It is faster for patients with less physical workloads and takes longer with more physically demanding jobs. For patients with particularly physical occupations, returning to work with a period of light duties is common. Patients also usually return to work slightly faster after a hip replacement compared to a knee replacement. Dr Johns will help guide you regarding your return to work.

Will I have physiotherapy after my surgery?

Typically you are assessed after your surgery whilst in hospital by a physiotherapist. Each patient has a post-operative rehabilitation plan. After a knee replacement it is important to manage your swelling and pain initially whilst following a gentle exercise program and avoiding excessive exercising. You are still welcome to see a physical therapist usually 2 weeks after surgery but avoiding excessive exercising in the first 2 weeks is important.

Will there be much pain following surgery?

Dr Johns & your anaesthetist are dedicated to control any pain after surgery as best as possible through a combination of techniques. You will be provided extra pain relieving medications to take after your surgery. Your rehabilitation will also include icing and elevation to reduce your knee pain and swelling. Each person experiences pain differently and to different degrees. It is common to have some mild to moderate pain in your surgical area for 2 weeks after surgery which reduces with time. For those having a knee replacement, most patients have significant improvements in pain by 6 weeks after surgery.

Do I need to take antibiotics when I see the dentist after my knee replacement?

Guidelines do not recommend the routine use of antibiotics prior to dental procedures. If you are immunocompromised or have poor oral health then the risks and benefits of antibiotics prior to dental work can be discussed. Overall patients should aim to maintain good oral health before and after a joint replacement.

How long will my knee replacement last?

Data from the Australian joint registry can show how long a replacement lasts before a revision may be performed. A revision is another operation to change one or more parts of the replacement. Overall it shows a total knee replacement has a 91 - 97% chance of lasting 10 years and an 86 - 93% chance of lasting 20 years.

What is my new knee replacement made of?

Most knee replacements consist of 4 main parts. The tibial component is typically made of a titanium alloy, the femoral component is made of a cobalt chrome alloy. The liner between the femoral and tibial components as well as the patellar component on the undersurface of the knee cap is made of a highly durable plastic - highly crosslinked polyethylene.

Will my knee replacement set off metal detectors?

It is common for metal detectors to be set off by a knee or hip replacement. It is recommended to inform the screening officer that you have had a knee replacement and you may have extra screening to confirm this. Many people have joint replacements now and screening officers should be able to take you through the process.

Will I have restrictions after my knee replacement?

Typically you will not have knee precautions or limitations after your surgery. Some people find kneeling difficult after surgery. However, after a knee replacement it is recommended to avoid high impact or repetitive activity to improve the longevity of your new knee replacement. This includes avoiding long distance running, mogul type skiing, squash, contact sports such as rugby, singles tennis and martial arts with contact. Most other activities can be performed once you have recovered after a knee replacement including walking, swimming, golf, cycling, hiking, doubles tennis, bowling, aerobics, cross country skiing, rowing and dancing. Dr Johns will discuss the timing of returning your activities.

How often do I need to get my knee replacement checked with my surgeon?

Standard follow up after your knee replacement will be arranged after your surgery to check your wound and obtain x-rays to check your new knee replacement. Longer term follow up will depend on various factors including your age, the demands placed on the joint, whether you have had a revision knee replacement and other factors. If you have any symptoms related to a knee replacement, this can be reviewed by Dr Johns and a patient with new symptoms related to their joint replacement should be reviewed in a timely manner.

Book your appointment with Dr Johns to discuss your knee treatment