your life. better.
KNEE REPLACEMENT
Knee replacement is a surgical
procedure where worn,
diseased or damaged surfaces
of a knee joint are replaced
with artificial surfaces, restoring
mobility, relieving pain and
straightening the legs into a
more natural position. Materials
used for resurfacing of the joint
are not only strong and durable
but also optimal for joint
function, as they produce as
little friction as possible.
Who should consider knee
replacement?
70 percent of joint replacements
are performed because arthritis has
caused pain in daily living. When
severe pain limits walking, climbing
stairs or getting in and out of chairs,
you may want to consider knee
replacement surgery. Replacement
can also relieve knee pain while
resting, swelling of the knee,
bowing in or out of the knee, as
well as restore motion.
Should my knee be cemented?
Knee replacements can be
successfully performed with all
cemented components as well as
with a combination of cementless
and cemented components. Your
surgeon will discuss which
technique is appropriate for you.
How long is the hospital stay?
The typical hospital stay after knee
replacement surgery is one to two
days. Walking and knee movement
are important to your recovery and
will begin the day of surgery. It is
important to begin moving after
surgery to get your blood flowing,
preventing blood clots and swelling.
Speeding recovery at Porter
Porter’s patients benefit from a
camp-like concept that helps speed
recovery. The healing process
actually begins days before surgery
when patients bring along a “coach”
to a pre-operative meeting. Together,
patient and coach learn what to
expect from surgery and recovery,
meeting with representatives from
nursing, dietary, physical and
occupational therapy, even learning
exercises to help prepare for surgery
and speed recovery. Following
surgery, patients are admitted
directly to the Center for Orthopedic
Medicine, which includes patient
rooms and all physical, occupational
and speech therapy services to help
patients become comfortable with
their new joint.
KNEE REPLACEMENT ■ CENTER FOR ORTHOPEDIC MEDICINE
What is knee replacement?
What about pain?
Thanks to advances in medication
technology, we are able to keep
you relatively comfortable
after surgery.
learn more at
PorterJOINTCARE.com
KNEE REPLACEMENT
Recovery varies with each person.
It is essential that you follow your
surgeon’s instructions regarding
home care during the first few
weeks after surgery, especially
the exercise program you are
prescribed.
You’ll need a walker for three to
six weeks, and then a cane for
another three to six weeks. Many
people resume normal light
activities, such as driving, within
three to six weeks of surgery.
Some discomfort with activity, and
at night, is common for several
weeks. Complete recovery can
take three to six months.
While most people will gradually
increase activities, including
recreational walking and biking,
swimming, golf and ballroom
dancing, you will be advised to
avoid more active sports such
as jogging, tennis, high-impact
aerobics, skiing, repetitive lifting
exceeding 50 pounds and contact
sports.
Are there complications?
As with any surgery, there is a
risk of complications after knee
replacement surgery. Blood
clots are the most common
complication after surgery. Your
orthopedic surgeon will work with
you to reduce the risk of blood
clots as well as loosening implants,
nerve/blood vessel damage or
infection. You may be prescribed
a combination of special support
hose, inflatable leg coverings,
blood thinners and antibiotics.
Will I need a blood transfusion?
This varies by patient. If your blood
count is high, it is much less likely
that you will need a transfusion.
Your blood count will be checked
frequently prior to surgery and
during your stay.
Each year, nearly 600,000
Americans undergo knee
replacement surgery.
How successful are knee
replacements?
Knee replacement is one of the
most important orthopedic
surgical advances of this century.
Each year, nearly 600,000
Americans undergo knee
replacement surgery that often
helps them get back on their feet
and resume active lifestyles.
TO LEARN MORE ABOUT
KNEE REPLACEMENT SURGERY,
CALL 219-983-8536.
MY HEALTH HOME
With our online portal, MY HEALTH
HOME, you can access your
inpatient hospital records from
any device with internet access. It’s
easy, convenient, private and free.
Only you, or those you authorize,
can view this secure site. Sign up at
PorterHealth.MyHealthHome.com.
For any login questions, call toll-free
877-456-9617.
Porter Regional Hospital is directly or indirectly owned by a partnership that proudly includes physician
owners, including certain members of the hospital’s medical staff.
KNEE REPLACEMENT ■ CENTER FOR ORTHOPEDIC MEDICINE
How long is recovery?
85 East US Highway 6
Valparaiso, IN 46383
219-983-8536
PorterJOINTCARE.com
033115
QUESTIONS?
CALL 219-983-8536