your knee replacement care & recovery guide

From Prep to Recovery: Step-by-Step Support

Your Knee ReplacementCare & Recovery Guide

Your Knee Replacement Care & Recovery GuideB

Dear Valued Patient,

Thank you for choosing us for your upcoming Knee Replacement Surgery. Your entire Care Team here at Banner is committed to providing you the safest, most successful surgery and recovery experience.

This Care & Recovery Guide was created to help you do just that.

It’s your point of reference for names, dates, and frequently asked questions. It details how to get ready for surgery, and what to expect afterward. It contains both easy-to-use checklists and thorough details about preparation, pain management, and recovery at home.

Remember to bring this Care & Recovery Guide with you to your appointments, make notes inside, and use it as a guide for your Care Team discussions.

The medical expertise of our orthopedic surgeons and Care Teams is second to none. We look forward to supporting you on this journey and assisting you with your ongoing orthopedic care.

Sincerely,

Your Knee Replacement Care & Recovery Guide

Banner Health 01

Co

nten

ts

Banner Health 01

0 3 PAT I E N T E D U C AT I O NGet to Know Your Knee

0 9 T I M E L I N ELeading Up to Surgery

19 G E T T I N G O R G A N I Z E DContacts & Checklists

3 3 S U R G E RY DAYStep-by-Step Guide

41 R E C OV E RYHealing at Home

5 3 R E S O U R C E STips & FAQs

Your Knee Replacement Care & Recovery Guide02

01 / Get to Know Your Knee

Knee Replacement Care & Recovery Guide02


Banner Health 03

Get to Know Your Knee

S E C T I O N 0 1

• A Note From Your Care Team• Anatomy of the Knee• Knee Replacement Surgery• Realistic Expectations• Possible Risks and Complications



Chances are you’ve been thinking a lot about your knee. As the largest joint in your body — one that helps you perform almost all everyday activities — it’s hard not to think about it if it’s in pain.

Understanding of the knee joint, its parts, and the reasons it can become unhealthy will help you better understand what will take place during your surgery, and will also help you better understand the rehabilitation process.

Enjoy this brief anatomy lesson, and let us know if you have any questions at all.

A Note From Your Care Team

Banner Health 05

Healthy Knee Anatomy

In a healthy knee, the joint surfaces where these bones touch are covered with articular cartilage, a smooth substance that cushions the bones and helps them move easily. The medial and lateral meniscus are crescent-shaped bands of thick rubbery cartilage attached to the tibia that act as “shock absorbers” and serve to stabilize the knee.

All other surfaces of the knee are covered by a thin, smooth tissue liner called the synovial membrane. This membrane releases a special fluid that lubricates the knee, reducing friction to nearly zero.

Normally, all these parts work in harmony, but disease, injury, and overuse can result in pain, muscle weak-ness, and reduced function.

A Knee With Arthritis

The most common cause of chronic knee pain and disability is arthritis. Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and post-traumatic arthritis are three frequently diagnosed forms of the disease.

• Osteoarthritis usually occurs in people aged 50 and older, and often in people with a family history of arthritis. With this disease, the cartilage that cushions the knee bones softens and wears away. The bones then rub against one another causing knee pain and stiffness.

• Rheumatoid arthritis is a disease in which the synovial membrane, lining the inner surface of the knee, becomes thickened and inflamed, thus producing too much fluid and overfilling the space in the knee joint. This chronic inflammation can damage knee cartilage and eventually cause cartilage loss, pain and stiffness.

• Post-traumatic arthritis can follow a serious knee injury because fracture or severe tears of the knee ligaments may damage the articular cartilage over time, causing knee pain and limiting function.

The knee joins the thighbone (femur), shinbone (tibia), fibula (on the outer side of the

shin) and kneecap (patella). The kneecap slides in a groove on the end of the femur, and

large ligaments attach to the femur and tibia to provide stability. The long thigh muscles

(quadriceps) give the knee strength.

Anatomy of the Knee Joint

Image reproduced with permission from OrthoInfo @American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. orthoinfo.org



The first line of defense in treating knee

pain is most often nonsurgical: weight loss,

physical therapy, and steroid injections are

usually attempted. When these treatments

don’t help — or if the arthritis is advanced —

knee replacement surgery is another option.

With knee replacement, the diseased ends of the femur and tibia are cut away and resurfaced with smooth metal components. A plastic component, which acts as a shock absorber, is placed between them. Arthritis on the back of the kneecap is also removed and replaced with a small plastic component. All the new parts are affixed into place with special bone cement. Patients are able to walk (with assis-tance) on the surgical knee within hours after surgery.

Knee Replacement Surgery

Image reproduced with permission from OrthoInfo. @American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. orthoinfo.org

Banner Health 07

Realistic Expectations About Knee Replacement Surgery

For some people, the pain relief that comes with knee replacement feels like a miracle. But it’s important to understand what the surgery can and cannot do for you, in order to decide if it’s the right choice.

First know this: Knee replacement success rates are very high. According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, more than 90 percent of people who undergo knee replacement experience a dramatic reduction of knee pain and a significant

Possible Risks and Complications

Complications after knee replacement surgery are rare. However, as with any surgery, and particularly for those who may already have a chronic illness, there is some risk of these complications:

• Blood clots• Scarring or fracture• Infection• Bleeding

Need for Additional Surgery

Although prosthesis design, materials, and surgical techniques continue to improve, the prosthetic surfaces of a new joint may wear away, or loosening of parts may occur after years of use. Discuss any concerns about the longevity of your joint replacement with your orthopedic surgeon.

• Damage to other tissues• Loss of limb or joint function• Dislocation of the prosthetic • Loosening of the prosthetic

• Temporary or permanent nerve and/or blood vessel injury

improvement in the ability to perform common activities of daily living.

But knee replacement also has some limits. It will not make you a superathlete or allow you to do more than you could before you developed arthritis.

With normal use and activity, every knee replacement develops some wear in the plastic components. Excessive activity or weight may accelerate this and cause the knee replacement components to loosen or become painful. With appropriate activity modifica-tion, knee replacements can last for many years.

False Patients with a total knee replacement have a very difficult time regaining a

vigorous active lifestyle.

True 90% of patients experience

dramatic pain reduction.


02 / Leading Up to Surgery


02 / Get to Know Your Knee02 / Leading Up to Surgery

Banner Health 09

Leading Up to Surgery• A Note From Your Nurse Navigator• Schedule Your Surgery• Commit to Self-Care• Get Your Preop Medical Evaluations• Identify a Care Helper• Get Your Assistive Equipment• Prep Your Home for Ease and Safety• Presurgical Questionnaire

LEADING UP GETTING ORGANIZED TIME FOR SURGERY HEALING AT HOME

S E C T I O N 0 2



Many people begin their preoperative planning two to three months before the actual surgery. For others, this timeline is longer, and for some, much shorter, in cases of injury or trauma.

Whatever your exact timeline, follow the important steps detailed on these pages in the correct order. This will help ensure you are ready for a successful surgery and home recovery.

If you have any questions or concerns along the way, we’re right here to take your call.

A Note From Your Nurse Navigator

Banner Health 11

Now that you and your orthopedic surgeon have

agreed that joint replacement surgery is right for you,

several things will happen:

Schedule Your Surgery

Save the Date: Once your date is set,

be sure to add it to your Personal Appointment

Tracker on page 21 of this Care & Recovery Guide.

1. Your surgeon’s staff will schedule your surgery with the hospital or surgery center.

2. Your orthopedic surgeon’s office or your assigned Nurse Navigator will contact you to schedule the Total Joint Class.

3. A Preadmission Nurse will contact you to perform a preoperative assessment.

4. The Banner staff will contact you to discuss financial information about your surgery, including verification of benefits and your financial responsibility. If your insurance requires a copay or deductible, you will be required to pay this prior to surgery or on the day of surgery.



Eat Healthy Foods

Your need for protein, calories, and several vitamins and minerals significantly increases after orthopedic surgery. For convenience, refer to your Healthy Grocery Shopping Checklist on page 26 of this Care & Recovery Guide.

If you have liver or kidney disease, or other special dietary needs, please discuss your diet and nutrition plan with your primary care provider.

Lose Weight

A healthier diet is important, but for some patients weight loss may also be required. Your orthopedic surgeon or primary care provider may ask you to lose weight before surgery in order to reduce stress on your new joint and possibly decrease other risks related to surgery. Follow your doctor’s instructions for a healthy weight loss plan.

Quit Smoking

Smoking cigarettes, cigars, or other tobacco products has a significant impact on our bones’ ability to heal. Nicotine constricts blood vessels to about 25% of their normal size, which causes lower amounts of nutrients, minerals, and oxygen to reach the bones. This can delay your ability to heal, so we recommend you quit smoking before your joint replacement surgery.

We know it’s not easy. Please talk to your primary care provider or Nurse Navigator for resources to help you quit smoking.

Attend Your Total Joint Class

The Total Joint Class is designed to empower you and your Care Helper with information and education about your upcoming surgery and recovery. When you attend this course, you will learn about how to prepare for surgery, what to expect during your facility stay, how to reduce the risk of complications, and tips to ensure a smooth transition from our facility to your home.

To help you heal, good nutrition and healthy lifestyle habits

are extremely important — before and after surgery.

Commit to Self-Care

See Healthy Grocery Shopping Checklist on page 26

Problems with smoking may include:

• Longer healing times: up to eight weeks more than usual

• Infection: three times more likely

• Breathing problems: six times more likely after surgery

• More operations: eight times more likely

• Anesthesia complications: higher risk, as people who smoke may require more anesthesia

Banner Health 13

Tests

To ensure you are prepared for your joint replacement surgery, your orthopedic surgeon may instruct you to have several tests completed prior to surgery. These may include blood and urine tests, an electrocardiogram and a chest X-ray.

Urinary Evaluation

Individuals who have had a recent urinary infection, or have a history of frequent urinary infections, and males with prostate disease should consider a urological evaluation before surgery.

Dental Evaluation

Although infections after joint replacement surgery are not common, an infection can occur if bacteria enter your bloodstream. Prior to surgery, your surgeon may require you to get a dental examination and clearance from your dentist to check for and treat gingivitis and periodontal bacteria.

Pre-Hab Strengthening Exercises

Ask your Care Team or Physical Therapist for the right exercises you should be doing before surgery. Following a pre-hab exercise plan improves recovery times in most patients.

In preparation for joint replacement surgery, your orthopedic surgeon may ask you to have a

complete physical examination done by your primary care physician or primary care provider. This

is necessary in order to check your overall health and identify any conditions that may interfere

with your surgery or recovery. If you see a specialist, such as a cardiologist or a urologist, you may

also be instructed to obtain additional approval for surgery from those specialists as well.

Get Your Preop Medical Evaluations

Tip: It is important to have a discussion with your orthopedic surgeon or primary care doctor regarding your pain management plan prior to surgery.

See Presurgical Questionnaire and Medication Start/Stop List on page 17



Our Care Team will be at your side at appointments, in the

hospital or surgery center, and by phone. But you will need

some additional support while preparing for your surgery and

working your way through recovery. Make arrangements with

friends or family members well before your surgery date so

that, together, you have plenty of time to plan.

Identify a Care Helper

Your Care Helper(s) must:

• Drive you to and from the hospital or surgery center on the day of your surgery or after discharge

• Drive you to your appointments after surgery, including your outpatient therapy appointments

They’ll also need to help with other tasks in the weeks leading up to, and following, surgery. These tasks include:

• Getting your assistive equipment in order (see list on opposite page)

• Prepping your home for safe and easy movement (see page 16)

• Preparing meals, doing laundry, grocery shopping, gathering supplies, assisting with yard work or retrieving your mail

• Emotional, physical and logistical support

Ask your Care Team for a copy of Your Banner Care & Recovery Guide: Care Helper Edition. It’s a booklet just like this, but tailored to help your friends or family members to help you.

If you have any difficulty making arrangements with friends or family members, don’t worry — talk to your Care Team or Nurse Navigator and they will help determine other options.

Banner Health 15

Get Your Assistive Equipment

Required

Front-wheeled walker (Image 1) This is required for all knee surgeries. The front-wheeled walker allows you to remain upright within the center of the walker, and provides you with more stability than a walker with four wheels.

Follow these instructions to ensure your front-wheeled walker is the proper height and size for you:

• Stand inside of your walker with your normal posture. You should have space in between your hips and the handles. (If your hips are touching the sides of the walker, do not follow the next steps; you will need a different size.)

• Hang your arms down at your sides. The handles should be at the same height as the bend in your wrists or where you would wear a watch.

• Adjust the legs of the walker to fit this height. When your hands are on the walker handles, you should have a slight bend in your elbows.

You may need some assistive equipment or other helpful items

at your home to help you stay comfortable and safe — your

Care Team will let you know which types. It’s important that

you practice using them before your surgery, so that afterward

you can move around safely.

Recommended

Based on your individual needs, you may also want these. Each does its part in ensuring your stability when bending, reaching, and performing other routine activities.

• Tub transfer bench or shower chair (Image 2)

• Toilet safety rails (Image 3)• Elevated toilet seat

• Hip kit (Image 4)• Ice packs• Wedges or firm pillows

A hip kit can include multiple assistive devices, such as a long-handled

shoehorn, long-handled sponge, or reacher to avoid awkward reaching.

See Assistive Equipment Checklist on page 24

1

2

3

4



• Rearrange furniture so you can maneuver safely with your walker.

• Remove throw rugs or area rugs that may cause you to trip.

• Securely fasten electrical cords around the perimeter of each room.

• Consider modifying room uses to avoid stairs for two weeks (for example, your living room may become your temporary bedroom).

And right before surgery, take the time to do the following tasks to ease your return home.

• Clean your home.

• Wash your bed linens, clothing and towels.

• Prepare meals, and gather supplies and groceries.

• Arrange for someone to help care for your pet if necessary.

When you get home from surgery, it’s going to be harder to

move around. Take these steps to prepare.

Prep Your Home for Ease and Safety

Banner Health 17

Questions to ask my Care Team at my presurgical appointment

Presurgical Questionnaire

What medications do I need to start and stop taking before my surgery?

When will I be discharged from the hospital or surgery center?

How much pain can I expect and how will it be managed?

Medication Start/Stop ListMedications to Keep Taking Medications to Stop Taking When to Stop


03 / Getting Organized


Banner Health 19

Getting Organized

S E C T I O N 0 3

• Meet Your Care Team• Personal Appointment Tracker• Your Preop “Stay Organized” Checklists

• Before Surgery• Assistive Equipment• Home Preparation• Healthy Grocery Shopping• Hospital Bag Packing• Four Days Before Surgery: Showering and Grooming• 24 Hours Before Surgery• The Night Before Surgery• Day of Surgery




Throughout your care and recovery journey, you’ll have the support of an expert team.

We’re here to provide you unparalleled care, and support your recovery every step of the

way. These are the roles that each of us play:

Meet Your Care Team

Orthopedic SurgeonThe surgeon is the expert in the treatment of many musculoskeletal problems who works with you from diagnosis through rehabilitation, and will perform your surgery.

Nurse NavigatorA Nurse Navigator will be assigned to you to help coordinate your care and assist you in making informed decisions about your care. This Registered Nurse will also communicate with your entire Care Team to allow for timely screenings, diagnoses and support.

Physician AssistantThis team member is an orthopedic expert who has gone through extensive training to make sure you receive the highest quality care. If your surgeon has one on their team, they will help monitor your progress during your surgical experience and will report updates directly to the surgeon.

Anesthesiologist or Certified Registered Nurse AnesthetistThe anesthesia experts are responsible for ensuring you are comfortable and pain-free during surgery.

Registered Nurse and Certified Nursing Assistants TeamThis team assists in your recovery and pain management, and is there to meet your needs if you are in the hospital.

HospitalistThis doctor helps monitor your health if you are in the hospital. They oversee any chronic medical conditions you may have, and coordinate with your primary care provider to make sure your stay goes as smoothly as possible.

Therapy StaffThis is your rehabilitation team. Your therapy team may be comprised of physical therapists or occupational therapists. They will teach you individualized exercises to increase your strength and range of motion, and will demonstrate how to perform daily activities as you adapt to temporary lifestyle changes during your recovery.

Preadmission TeamThis team is made up of two groups. The Patient Access Services team will collect insurance information and process your financial commitments. The Preadmission Testing team will perform a preoperative assessment and update your medical record to ensure we have information necessary to care for you during your stay with us.

Banner Health 21

Personal Appointment Tracker

Questions for My Care Team

Surgeon Phone

Nurse Navigator Phone

Physician Assistant Phone

Other Team Members Phone

Time

Surgery Date

Date Time Location Notes

Preop

Postop

Total Joint Class

First Therapy

Primary Care Provider

Care Helper for Transportation Phone



Your Preop “Stay Organized” ChecklistsAs with any surgery, your health and safety are the number one priority. To help you remember the many details provided to you at your appointments, we’ve created this section of the Care & Recovery Guide.

Keep these at-a-glance lists grouped here or pull them out and display them somewhere at home (like your desk or refrigerator). Refer to them regularly and check things off as you complete them.

Banner Health 23

No

Do not take blood-thinning medications before surgery, as instructed by your orthopedic surgeon. (Talk to your primary care provider before stopping any other medications.)

Do not take any weight loss medications and herbal supplements 14 days before your surgery.

Do not shave from the neck down for one week prior to surgery.

Yes

■ Determine your health insurance coverage.

■ Schedule and attend all preoperative clearance appointments at least three weeks prior to surgery.

■ Identify your Care Helper and ensure they have received the Your Care & Recovery Guide: Care Helper Edition.

■ Obtain assistive equipment and practice using it before you come to the hospital or surgery center as directed on page 15.

■ Notify your primary care provider and orthopedic surgeon if you develop a cold, fever, or other infections before surgery.

■ Attend your Total Joint Class.

■ Shower with antibacterial soap for four days before surgery and on the morning of surgery as directed on page 28 of your Care & Recovery Guide.

Don’t forget: Being ready for surgery starts well before your scheduled day.

In the weeks leading up to your surgery, be sure to get these things done.

Before SurgeryC H E C K L I S T

Know what you owe?Health care benefits change and differ from plan to plan and provider to provider. Call your insurance provider at least two weeks before your surgery to find out exactly what is and is not covered under your plan, and how much you have to pay.

Your surgeon’s office will call your insurance company to determine if preapproval (prior authorization) is needed and get the preapproval for you.

Important: If you change your insurance plan after your first appointment for surgery, let your surgeon’s office know right away. A new preapproval can take up to three weeks.



Assistive EquipmentC H E C K L I S T

Recommended

■ Tub transfer bench or shower chair

■ Elevated toilet seat

■ Hip kit (reacher, sock aide, long-handled shoehorn, long-handled sponge)

■ Toilet safety rails

■ Ice packs

■ Wedges or firm pillows

Required for Knee Surgery

■ Front-wheeled walker

Have these items ready at home before your surgery day, and practice using them.

Full descriptions of how each will help can be found on page 15.

Banner Health 25

The Day Before Surgery

■ Clean your home.

■ Wash bed linens, clothing and towels.

■ Prepare meals.

■ Gather supplies and groceries.

C H E C K L I S T

In the Weeks Ahead

■ Rearrange furniture allowing for clear pathways so you can maneuver safely with your walker.

■ Remove throw rugs or area rugs that may cause you to trip.

■ Securely fasten electrical cords around the perimeter of each room.

■ Swap rooms around to avoid stairs for two weeks (for example, your living room may become your temporary bedroom).

■ Check the stability of stair railings both inside and outside the home.

■ Unclutter and clear your driveway and walking paths outside.

A few adjustments in the home will help keep you safe (and stumble-free) in the weeks

following your surgery. You might need assistance from a family member or friend to get

some of these items done. If making modifications presents a challenge, please contact your

Care Team or Nurse Navigator for assistance.

Home Preparation



Proteins

■ Lean meat

■ Poultry

■ Beans

■ Peas

■ Trout

■ Tofu

Vitamin C

■ Broccoli

■ Citrus fruits

■ Kiwi

■ Strawberries

■ Tomatoes

■ Peppers

■ Papaya

Calcium

■ Milk

■ Kale

■ Spinach

■ Salmon

■ Soybeans

■ Calcium-fortified orange juice

■ Calcium-fortified cereal

Zinc

■ Beans

■ Eggs

■ Nuts

■ Poultry

■ Milk

■ Tofu

■ Whole grains

Vitamin A

■ Carrots

■ Cantaloupe

■ Eggs

■ Pumpkin

■ Sweet potatoes

■ Tomatoes

■ Mangoes

Before and after surgery, include plenty of these foods in your daily meal planning.

C H E C K L I S T

Healthy Grocery Shopping

Banner Health 27

Prepare your hospital bag to include the following items.

Gather items you don’t have at home a week or two ahead.

Hospital Bag PackingC H E C K L I S T

Recommended

■ Advance directives

■ Shaving items

■ Toothbrush, toothpaste and deodorant

■ Phone numbers of family and friends

■ Cellphone charger

Required

■ Your Care & Recovery Guide (this booklet)

■ Photo identification

■ Insurance information

■ Eyeglasses and hearing aids (if you use them)

■ List of medications

■ Dentures and denture cream (if you use them)

■ Tennis shoes and socks

■ One or two pairs of loose-fitting shorts (elastic waistband)

■ One or two loose-fitting tops or T-shirts

■ Your front-wheeled walker

■ CPAP machine (or any other device you use every day)



■ First Shower Start On: —— / —— / ——

■ Second Shower

■ Third Shower

■ Fourth Shower

■ Fifth and Final Shower Day of Surgery: —— / —— / ——

Shower with CHG for four days before surgery, and on the morning of surgery.

Follow these steps:

• Shower using the soap to wash from your neck to your toes.

• Do not use the soap on your head or genital areas. Use your normal soaps or shampoos to wash these areas.

• Use a clean washcloth and towel for each shower.

• Do not shave anything from the neck down starting one week before your surgery.

• After your last shower on the day of your surgery, do not apply anything else to your skin. This includes hairpins, makeup, nail polish, lotions, powder, perfume/cologne or deodorants.

Before any surgery, it’s important to clean your skin with an

antibacterial soap, such as Chlorhexidine Gluconate (CHG).

This helps reduce your risk of infection. You’ll begin using

antibacterial soap once a day, starting four days before

surgery, and on the morning of surgery, for a total of five uses.

Four Days Before Surgery: Showering and Grooming

C H E C K L I S T

Banner Health 29

24 Hours Before Surgery: What to Eat, Clean and PackEat Light

Eat foods to help you heal as listed on page 26. Reminder: Do not eat anything at least eight hours prior to surgery.

Clean

Clean commonly used items and surfaces around your home. Set out your freshly washed towels and bedding.

Take Home Medications

Take as prescribed carefully checking your preoperative instructions.

Pack Your Hospital Bag

Don’t leave home without it.

C H E C K L I S T



You’re almost there. Complete the list below and rest well tonight.

The Night Before SurgeryC H E C K L I S T

Yes

■ Eat a light meal more than eight hours before surgery.

■ Replace your bedding with freshly washed sheets and pillowcases.

■ Double-check your packed hospital bag.

No

Do not eat or drink anything within eight hours of your scheduled surgery time.

Do not smoke after midnight.

Do not pack or bring jewelry, cash or other valuables. The hospital or surgery center is not responsible for misplaced items.

Do not bring or take your own medications while you are in the hospital or surgery center unless specifically told to do so by your orthopedic surgeon, hospitalist or primary care provider.

Banner Health 31

Before you head to the hospital with your family member or friend, be sure you’ve

taken care of these important surgery day to-do’s.

C H E C K L I S T

Day of Surgery

Yes

■ Take your final shower using your antibacterial soap, such as CHG, as prescribed by your Care Team.

■ Brush your teeth (but do not swallow any water).

■ Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes that are easy to take on and off.

■ Take (with a small sip of water) only the medications your orthopedic surgeon and primary care provider have approved you to take before your surgery.

■ Bring your prepacked hospital or surgery center bag with your personal items.

■ Have your front-wheeled walker available for use when discharged from the hospital or surgery center.

■ Arrive at the hospital or surgery center at your scheduled arrival time.

No

Do not eat or drink.

Do not apply any other products to your skin after your final shower.

Do not wear hairpins, makeup, lotions, nail polish, powder, perfume, cologne or deodorant.

Do not swallow water after brushing your teeth.

Do not take medications, vitamins or supplements your orthopedic surgeon and primary care providers have not approved.


04 / Time for Surgery

Banner Health 33


Time for Surgery• Day of Surgery: Your Step-by-Step Guide• How You’ll Feel After Surgery• What You Will Experience

S E C T I O N 0 4



Check-In

Arrive at the hospital or surgery center with your Care Helper at the time you’ve been instructed.

Once you’re there, you’ll check in at the surgery registration area. To ensure your safety and confirm your health care information, you may be asked the same questions — or asked to provide the same information — several times during your stay.

We do this for your safety, which is our top priority.

Move to the Preoperative Area

In the Preoperative Area, you will meet and talk to both your surgeon and anesthesiologist.

During your time in the Preoperative Area, you will:

• Have a presurgery “bath” with antibacterial wipes to cleanse your skin.

• Change into a hospital gown and place your personal items in a bag for safekeeping (they will be returned to you after surgery).

• Have your vital signs monitored. This includes checking your blood pressure, heart rate, tempera-ture, respiratory rate and oxygen level.

• Have an intravenous (IV) line inserted in your arm to provide you with fluids and medications.

Then• An iodine-based antiseptic swab will be used to

cleanse your nostrils.

When You Arrive

• A member of the Anesthesia Team will meet with you to discuss available types of anesthesia. General anesthesia or spinal anesthesia are most commonly used. A nerve block, known as local or regional anesthesia, may also be used to numb your surgical limb.

• Your orthopedic surgeon will make a mark on the correct limb that will have surgery.

• Your family and friends will be taken to the desig-nated waiting area while you are in surgery.

The Operating Room

In the Operating Room, you will be assisted from your stretcher onto the operating table. The anesthesia provider will attach monitoring equipment and give you sedating medications to relax you. The chosen anesthesia will be started and your surgery will begin.

Postanesthesia Care Unit (PACU)

After your surgery is completed, you will be taken to the Postanesthesia Care Unit (PACU). The average stay in the PACU is two to six hours depending on your predetermined plan after surgery and how quickly you wake up. The nursing staff will monitor you and help you stay comfortable, and your family and friends will be notified of your progress. While in the PACU:

• Your surgical dressing, vital signs, and pain level will be continuously monitored.

• Pain and anti-nausea medications will be adminis-tered as needed through your IV line.

Day of Surgery: Your Step-by-Step Guide

Banner Health 35

• A face mask will be used to give you oxygen and will be removed as you become more awake.

• Warm blankets will keep you comfortable.

• Your arms and legs will be closely monitored for warmth, pulse, sensation and movement. If you experience any increased numbness, tingling, or discomfort in any of your limbs, please tell your nurse.

• You will continue to receive IV fluids until you are eating and drinking well. Your IV line will stay in place until you are discharged.

• Compression stockings may be placed on your legs, and a Sequential Compression Device may be used to promote circulation.

Planning for Discharge

Your orthopedic surgeon and Care Team will help you determine when it will be safest and most appropriate to discharge you.

In order to meet the criteria for discharge, you must be able to complete the following:

• Have pain controlled with oral medications (there will be pain, but a tolerable amount).

• Be able to eat and drink.

• Be able to urinate without difficulty.

• Be able to get in or out of bed with minimal help.

• Walk steadily and safely with your front- wheeled walker.

Check Out

• If your orthopedic surgeon determines you will be discharged from the PACU, the nurses will assist you with walking and preparing for your discharge home.

• If your orthopedic surgeon determines you should remain for additional time, highly trained nurses and staff who specialize in orthopedic patient care will continue to care for you and monitor your recovery.

• Your family and friends will be notified about where to meet you.

• You will remain in the hospital or surgery center until you have met all requirements that deem you safe to be discharged.



The knee, as you know, is the largest joint in the body, and replacing it is considered

major surgery. Proper pain management and care is important in your early recovery.

How You’ll Feel After Surgery

Pain Measurement Scale

0 No pain

1 2 Mild pain

3 4 Moderate

pain

5 6 Severe

pain

7 8 Very severe

pain

9 10 Worst pain imaginable

Pain

Your pain control started prior to your surgery: The preoperative nursing staff provided you with medication shown to reduce the need for ongoing postoperative pain management.

Pain after surgery is quite variable and not entirely predictable, but yours will be controlled with medication adjusted to your needs, either through an IV or through pills. The transition from IV medication to pills is usually accomplished in the first 24 hours.

Although your Care Team will work with you to manage your pain and keep you comfortable, it is unrealistic to expect to be pain-free following your surgery.

Your Care Team will ask you, along the way, to rate your pain on the Pain Measurement Scale. The Pain Scale is numbered from zero to 10. It ranks your pain as mild, moderate or severe. Having a pain level of three or four is ideal for most people as this is a level of pain you feel is manageable enough to perform your daily activities.

Be proactive and remind your Care Team about your upcoming available dosage for medication. This is especially important prior to activities that elicit pain or if your body requires increased time to respond to pain medication.

You will find more information about ongoing pain management in Section 5, “Healing at Home.”

Appetite

Following surgery, your appetite may be diminished or you may feel nauseated or constipated. These are normal reactions and can be treated. Your Care Team will help you manage these conditions by guiding you through early mobilization, getting in and out of bed, doing breathing exercises and more.

Nerve Blocks

If you were given a nerve block during surgery, your surgical limb will feel numb for up to 24 hours. To prepare for the block to wear off, do the following:

• Take your pain medication at the first sign that the nerve block is wearing off.

• Use ice packs and elevation to transition from the block to oral pain medications.

• Have assistance and use caution when walking until the block has worn off.

Banner Health 37

Early Mobilization

Following your surgery, a member of your Care Team will provide you with instructions and assist you, as needed, to safely get out of bed and walk. They will teach you how to use your new knee and give you activities to promote movement and blood flow. You will be encouraged to practice your exercises and walk with your Care Team often. Moving and increasing the range of motion in your knee will be vital to the success of your surgery.

Early activity is also important to counteract the effects of the anes-thesia and to reduce other risks, such as blood clots or pneumonia.

Your leg muscles may feel weak right after surgery. This is especially common for those who have been cutting back on activities due to pain in their knees. Over time, you’ll need to build up strength in your quadriceps muscles to develop control of your new joint.

Throughout your recovery, you will be encouraged to increase your activity. We’ll be at your side. Until you can demonstrate safe mobility, you must always have a member of your Care Team there when you walk or complete tasks that require you to change positions. Your family and friends may participate in your care and help with these activities, but only if a Care Team member is present or has provided the OK for your family or friends to assist.

Wound Care and Compression

Initially, you will have a bulky dressing around your knee and possibly a drain to remove any fluid buildup. The drain is typically removed 24 to 48 hours after your surgery. After this, you will begin wearing compression stockings or Ace bandages and, if you’re still in the hospital, possibly using a Sequential Compression Device. These efforts help prevent blood clots and excessive swelling in your legs.

Although you’ll probably want to take it easy at first, early

activity and mobilization are actually a key part of your recovery.

What You Will Experience



One way is through a tool called an incentive spirom-eter, which we will send home with you. This helps increase your breathing capacity.

To use the incentive spirometer, take a slow deep breath in through the mouthpiece, hold that breath as long as you can, and then breathe out. You should feel your lungs expanding. Repeat this step 10 times over every hour that you are awake.

The incentive spirometer will help monitor the amount of air you’re taking in. You will be encouraged to try to increase the amount you inhale up to your predetermined goal set by your Care Team.

Other ways to help prevent pneumonia include:

• Increase your activity.

• Eat all meals sitting up in a chair.

• Walk often with assistance from your Care Team.

• Brush your teeth at least two times daily.

• Ask your Nursing Team about the Pneumonia Vaccine.

Continue reading on the pages that follow about your ongoing recovery at home.

The risk of pneumonia increases with any surgery, so we take

plenty of steps in the first 24 to 48 hours to ensure we prevent it.

Preventing Pneumonia

Banner Health 39


05 / Healing at Home


02 / Get to Know Your Knee05 / Healing at Home

Banner Health 41

Healing at Home

Banner Health


• A Note From Your Care Team• Managing Pain• Outpatient Therapy• Preventing Blood Clots• Infection Prevention• Incision Care • Tips to Make Daily Activities Easier• Postsurgical Questionnaire

S E C T I O N 0 5



Welcome home! The days and weeks that follow surgery are, for the vast majority of patients, spent in the comfort of home.

Since doctors and nurses aren’t quite so nearby, we want you to have as much information as possible about what to expect, signs of your progress, and signs you might need to seek medical assistance.

Having a friend or family member with you — at least for the first few days — will also help ensure your safety and comfort.

We are here to help you during this time, and look forward to seeing you at your upcoming postoperative appointments.

A Note From Your Care Team

Banner Health 43

Pain Measurement Scale

0 No pain

1 2 Mild pain

3 4 Moderate

pain

5 6 Severe

pain

7 8 Very severe

pain

9 10 Worst pain imaginable

It’s normal to have pain and discomfort after joint replacement surgery, and it’s important to

discuss your pain management plan with your orthopedic surgeon before surgery.

Managing Your Pain at Home

As your pain lessens, you should wean yourself off the narcotic pain medications or opioids to reduce the risk of addiction. To do this, start increasing the length of time between your doses until you are no longer taking them,

If you need to refill your narcotic or opioid prescription, please let your orthopedic surgeon’s office know as soon as possible. This means notifying them when you have 10-15 tablets left, not zero. This refill requires an electronic signature from your prescribing physician and this might not occur on the same day as your request. Make sure you consider your medication needs before weekends and holidays.

Over-the-Counter Pain Medication

Over-the-counter pain medications provide an important addition to your pain control regimen. They also generally have fewer side effects than narcotic pain medications. Please ask your primary care physician or your orthopedic surgeon if there are any contraindications to taking these medications.

Now that you are home, you will have multiple inter-ventions to assist in controlling pain. Most patients need a prescription for a narcotic pain medication or opioid to treat postoperative pain after discharge.

Prescription Narcotics or Opioids

Prescription narcotics or opioids can be very effec-tive in managing pain resulting in better movement and aiding in restful sleep. However, the longer you are on these medications, the less effective they become in pain management, as your body builds up tolerance to them.

When Taking Prescription Narcotics or Opioids:

• Don’t drive or make important decisions. • No alcohol should be consumed with narcotics

or opioids.• Take them as prescribed. • Eat something before taking them.• Keep track of the amount and last time you took

the medication.• They should be used for the first few days, then

significantly less after that.• Drink eight to 10 glasses of water to avoid

constipation.• Put your pills in a safe place so others don’t have

access to them.



• Tylenol/Acetaminophen: Please take as pre-scribed on your bottle. They can be taken at the same time as your other medications or spread out based on your preference. They can be taken in conjunction with NSAIDs. Some prescribed narcotic medications, such as Percocet or Norco, may include Acetaminophen; the bottle will outline the dose of Acetaminophen included. Please take that into consideration when planning any other use of Acetaminophen to control your pain.

• Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Medications (NSAIDs): This category includes medications such as Ibuprofen, Motrin, Advil, Aleve, etc. These medications come in different tablet sizes and recommended dosing times/regimens. Please refer to the bottle for instructions of use. These medications are safe to take in addition to Tylenol or your narcotic prescription if OK’d by your orthopedic surgeon.

• Topical ointments: There are many topical ointments that may aid in your pain control. Please make sure you avoid the surgical incision area to prevent irritation or increased risk of infection if you elect to use a topical ointment. Examples include: Aspercreme, Icy Hot, Bengay, CBD oils, and lotions that may include Lidocaine.

Medication Side Effects

Common side effects of pain medications include:

• Constipation• Nausea

• Drowsiness• Itching

Other side effects can include:

• Lightheadedness• Confusion• Urinary retention• Increased anxiety• Trouble concentrating

Call your Care Team if you experience any side effects. Other medications may be available to help you manage these side effects and help you stay comfortable.

Medication-Free Therapies

Medication-free interventions can be helpful in managing your pain. Treatments and activities like these can be explored with your Care Team, and on your own.

• Ice packs can provide comfort, decrease swelling, and help with pain control for up to two weeks following surgery. Be sure to place a towel between your skin and the ice pack. Ice the area for 20 minutes or less to avoid frostbite.

• Elevating your legs is essential after surgery to help decrease swelling. Attempt to elevate your legs whenever you are seated at rest. Be sure your surgical leg is elevated straight, with no bend in your knee. If you have movement restrictions after your joint replacement surgery, ensure you follow these movement restrictions when elevating your legs.

Banner Health 45

It’s common to experience constipation after having joint replacement surgery,

as constipation is often a side effect of the narcotic pain medication prescribed

to treat postoperative pain in addition to decreased activity.

Constipation Prevention and Management

Since constipation is a common side effect that many people don’t expect following surgery, the information below will help guide you as prevention is crucial.

Signs and Symptoms

• Hard, small stools that are difficult to pass• Fewer number of bowel movements • Gas• Abdominal cramping and bloated feeling• Nausea

Prevention

• Drink eight to 10 glasses of water each day. This softens the stool.

• Include plenty of high-fiber foods in your diet.• Refrain from caffeine and alcohol.• Stay active and walk as much as possible.• When you feel the urge, go.• Decrease the pain medication as much as you can.

You may need to reach out to your Care Team if you have not had a bowel movement in two days if preventive care is not successful. Your Care Team may recommend over-the-counter medications which are available at most local grocery or drugstores and large retailers:

• Laxatives • Stool softeners• Suppositories

• Frequent walking and position changes will help build up muscle strength and may help reduce swelling.

• Aromatherapy can alter the brain’s perception of pain and help improve mood.

• Distraction with activities such as music, TV and games can help divert your attention from the pain.

• Guided imagery, relaxation, or meditation can help reduce stress levels and ease anxiety.

• Spiritual support through individual prayer or from your spiritual or religious affiliation can help give comfort and reduce anxieties.



Your commitment to your therapy program will

help get you back into your routines more quickly.

Outpatient Therapy

Follow your therapy team’s recommendations for completing your exercises and attend all your sched-uled outpatient therapy appointments.

Discuss the types of activities you enjoy with your therapist. They will let you know when it is safe for you to start those activities again. Be sure to avoid any activities that are high impact or involve heavy lifting until you are cleared by your orthopedic surgeon and outpatient therapy team.

Contact your outpatient therapist or orthopedic surgeon at any time with questions.

Once you’ve achieved all your recommended rehabilitation goals, you need to continue with a regular exercise program to maintain your overall fitness and to help the health of the muscles around your joints. With permission from both your orthopedic surgeon and primary care provider, you should exercise three to four times a week for 20-30 minutes at a time.

Ongoing Fitness

20-30 min.

3-4/ week

Banner Health 47

After orthopedic surgery, patients are at increased risk of developing blood clots

or deep vein thrombosis. Your orthopedic surgeon may recommend a variety of

methods to decrease your risk of forming a blood clot once you are home.

Infections after joint replacement surgery are rare. However, you should

continue to take precautions to avoid infections after you are discharged.

Preventing Blood Clots

Preventing Infection

• Compression stockings put pressure on your legs to help your blood vessels work better. Continue to wear your compression stockings for six weeks or as directed by your orthopedic surgeon. If you have discomfort, tingling, or numbness, notify your orthopedic surgeon.

• Blood-thinning medication will prevent your blood cells from sticking together or forming clots after surgery. Your orthopedic surgeon will deter-mine the most appropriate medication for you. In most instances, depending on family history, you will be provided with a short-term prescription for aspirin. If you are at higher risk for blood clots, you may be prescribed a stronger medication. Follow your surgeon’s instructions on how long you will take this medication.

• Pumping your ankles and walking are activities that will keep your blood moving and prevent your blood from sticking together or forming clots. Make sure you are pumping your ankles or walking every hour you are awake to keep your blood moving. Remain active and increase your activity by taking several short walks during the day.

Although developing a blood clot is rare, please be aware of symptoms you should report immediately to your orthopedic surgeon or primary care provider:

• Increased swelling, warmth or tenderness of limbs

• Shortness of breath

• Increased heart rate, palpitations or chest pain

• Wash your hands often to reduce germs.

• Follow your orthopedic surgeon’s instructions for incision care and when it’s OK to shower.

• Continue drinking plenty of fluids, and eating a balanced diet high in protein and fiber.

• Keep your home environment clean.

• Keep pets, kids, and hazards away from your incision area.

After total joint surgery, antibiotics may be required before any invasive procedures (such as dental

cleaning, oral surgery, bladder or urinary tract pro-cedures, or colon procedures). Inform your doctor that you now have an artificial joint. Please contact your orthopedic surgeon if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Increased redness, drainage, or swelling at the surgical incision

• Increased warmth or tenderness at or around the surgical incision

• Persistent fever (higher than 101.5 F)

• Chills or shaking



After surgery, your incision will be covered by a dressing to

protect it. Your orthopedic surgeon will determine the most

appropriate type of dressing to use, and Your Care Team will

teach you how to care for your dressing and incision for care

at home.

Incision Care

• Ask your orthopedic surgeon when you can take your dressing off and when you can shower.

• Your orthopedic surgeon will check on the healing progress of your surgical incision at your postoperative appointments.

• Watch your surgical incision for signs of infection. Some swelling and redness is normal, but if it increases or if you develop any symptoms of infection (see page 47), please notify your orthopedic surgeon.

Stop

Do not submerge your surgical incision during your shower or bath (or in pools, hot tubs or lakes).

Do not apply any lotions, creams, or ointments on or around your surgical incision unless prescribed by your orthopedic surgeon. When your surgical incision is fully healed, make sure the new skin is protected from the sun with protective clothing or sunscreen.

Banner Health 49

Tips to Make Daily Activities Easier

• Wear loose-fitting clothing (comfortable elastic waist pants, loose-fitting shirts).

• Sit down to get dressed. Dress your surgical leg first.

• To undress, remove clothing from your nonsurgical leg first.

• Place your belt through the pant loops prior to putting pants on.

• If you stocked up on assistive equipment, it’s time to use it. To help you stay safe in the bathroom, use nonskid mats in your shower or tub, a shower chair or tub bench to sit down in the shower, and a grab bar, if available.

• A long-handled sponge or loofah can help you wash your body.

• Shower as directed by your orthopedic surgeon. If you do not remember, call your Care Team and ask.

• Shoes with a sturdy sole are recommended. Shoes with elastic shoelaces or Velcro closures may be easier to use than laced shoes. A shoehorn may help you put on shoes easier. Tie your shoes before putting them on.

• An elevated toilet seat may be helpful if you have a difficult time getting on and off your toilet. Check your toilet height before surgery by sitting down on it and looking at your legs. If your knees are the same height or higher than your hips, you will benefit from a toilet seat riser.

Getting Dressed

Showering and Toileting



• Lying on your back is recommended following your surgery.

• After surgery, it’s best to avoid sleeping on your side for at least six weeks. When your body feels ready, talk to your surgeon about sleeping on your side, and the best practices for your particular joint surgery.

• After knee surgery, using a belt or strap may help you to lift your leg on and off the bed if you are having a hard time. Put the loop around your foot and use your arms to gently pull up your leg.

• Allow plenty of time for daily activities.

• Do not get down on your hands and knees to clean. Use a mop and long-handled brushes.

• After knee surgery, sit down for activities such as dressing and showering. Sit on a high stool or put cushions on your chair when preparing meals so you are at a better working height.

• If you have limited help at home, buy foods that are precut, diced or peeled.

• Plan ahead in terms of your medication dosing. Taking your medications 30 minutes before going to sleep and taking a combination of your over-the-counter and narcotic prescriptions together at this time will allow for maximum efficacy and pain relief and help you get more rest.

• Plan ahead. Gather all your cooking supplies and ingredients in your workspace before you start cooking.

• Keep frequently used cooking supplies and utensils between waist and shoulder height to avoid overstretching or bending.

• A long-handled grabber may be helpful to pick up or grab items from the floor or upper shelves.

• Do not be afraid to ask for help.

Sleeping

Other

Banner Health 51

Questions to ask my Care Team at my follow-up appointment

Postsurgical Questionnaire

How much longer should I:

Take my blood thinner?

Take my pain medication?

When can I:

Take a tub bath or swim? Travel on an airplane?

Drive a car? Increase my leisure activities, such as golfing?

How long will I have to take precautions?

Will I ever be able to get on my hands and knees again?

When can I return to work?

Other questions


06 / Tips and FAQs


02 / Get to Know Your Knee06 / Tips and FAQs

Banner Health 53

Tips and FAQs

S E C T I O N 0 6

• Your Recovery Action Plan: When to Call and When to Rest Easy• Frequently Asked Questions From Patients


06 / Tips and FAQs

Daily Action Plan• Incision site — Continue to check daily. The incision

should get better each day. Keep covered if draining.

• Constipation — Take stool softener as prescribed, drink lots of fluids, and eat high-fiber foods.

• Upset stomach — Take pain medication with food.

• Low fever — Use breathing tool, or take deep breaths, 10 times every hour.

• Pain, stiffness and swelling — Ice and elevate three to five times a day. Take pain medications as prescribed. Walk and change positions frequently. Wear TED hose or compression stockings during the day (if instructed to use).

Action Plan

• Call 911 or go to the Emergency Room.• Call your surgeon if you go to the hospital.

Y O U R R E C O V E R Y A C T I O N P L A N

When to Call and When to Rest Easy

Things are OK if you experience ...• A small amount of redness around the incision that is not

hot to the touch, splotching or streaking

• Drainage that is clear, red, or pink that does not soak through the dressing

• Minor constipation

• Minor appetite loss

• Upset stomach but still able to keep food down

• No fever, or low fever (lower than 101.5 F)

• Minor pain, stiffness and swelling

Be cautious and aware if you experience ...• Worsening redness around the incision site

• Fever higher than 101.5 F, with or without chills

• The surgery incision begins to pull apart

• Feeling confused, or family thinks you seem confused

• Drainage that soaks through the dressing or is foul-smelling, green, yellow or cloudy

• Mobility is decreasing and more help is needed to do daily tasks

• Drainage that stopped has started again

• Increased heart rate or heart palpitations

• Constipation that is not better with fiber, fluids, and stool softener medications

• Blood in stool or dark tarry stools

• Pain, stiffness, or swelling that worsens, even with ice packs and elevation

• Upset stomach not getting better

Action PlanHelp is available for your needs, even when the office is closed. Call your surgeon’s office if:

• You have any of these symptoms• You have any questions or concerns• You go to the hospital

It’s an emergency if you experience ... • Sudden numbness or weakness (especially on one side

of the body)

• Sudden trouble walking or loss of balance

• Sudden severe headache

• New shortness of breath or trouble breathing

• Pain in your chest, jaw, neck, back, or in one or both arms

• Inability to urinate

Banner Health 55

Is the Total Joint Class required? Why?Yes, the Total Joint Class is required before your joint replacement surgery. Receiving presurgical education helps to improve patients’ preparations for surgery, increase satisfaction with the hospital journey, and reduce risks of postoperative complications.

Q:

How long will I be in the hospital?Your Care Team will help you determine when it will be safest and most appropriate for your discharge home from the hospital or surgery center. You may be discharged home on the same day as your surgery, or you may stay one or more nights, depending on your progress after surgery.

In order to meet the criteria for discharge, you must be able to complete the following:

• Have pain controlled with oral medications• Be able to eat and drink• Be able to urinate without difficulty• Be able to get in or out of bed without help• Walk steadily and safely with your front-wheeled walker

Q:

Is it common to have a fever?It is common to experience a low-grade fever (approximately 99.9 F) following surgery. Your Care Team in the clinic should be consulted if you have a fever of 101.5 F or higher. Your Care Team in the clinic should be consulted if you experience a fever combined with increasing joint pain, drainage, redness, and/or increased joint or extremity swelling.

Q:

Is it common to become constipated?It is common to experience constipation after joint replacement surgery, as constipation is often a side effect of the narcotic pain medications prescribed. Eating a high-fiber diet and drinking plenty of water can help. Let your Care Team know if you experience pain, or if your bowel movements do not return to what is normal for you. For more information, please see page 45 for management of constipation.

Q:

Frequently Asked Questions

When can I drive?Do not drive if you are taking narcotic pain medication. Additionally, you will need to be able to move your legs easily in order to respond to traffic patterns. Therefore, always consider your safety and the safety of the community before you begin driving again. Please discuss your ability to return to driving with your outpatient physical therapist or your orthopedic surgeon. Your orthopedic surgeon will provide clearance when you are safe to drive.

Q:


06 / Tips and FAQs

When can I go back to work?Those with occupations that are less physically demanding are usually able to return to work sooner than those with occupations that require more physical demands. Please discuss when you can return to work with your outpatient physical therapist or your orthopedic surgeon.

Q:

When is my first postoperative appointment with my orthopedic surgeon?Your first postoperative appointment usually occurs two weeks after your surgery. Please ensure you have this appointment scheduled. It is important that you attend your postoperative appointments so your orthopedic surgeon can monitor your progress. You should also schedule a postoperative appointment with your primary care provider.

Q:

Will I set off metal detectors?In general, yes. We recommend arriving 10-15 minutes early for any security screening that is required prior to travel. Wearing loose fitting pants that allow you to be able to modestly reveal your incision will frequently aid in any secondary screening.

Q:

Do I need to wear TED hose or compression stockings?Yes. Please wear your TED hose or compression stockings as directed by your orthopedic surgeon. You may require help to put on or remove these stockings. Ask your Care Team or your outpatient physical therapist on suggestions about how to make putting on your stockings easier.

Q:

What physical/recreational activities may I participate in after my surgery?We encourage you to walk as much as you are able to tolerate. Always talk to your outpatient physical therapist or orthopedic surgeon for a safe plan on returning to activities. Please refer to page 7 for realistic expectations.

Q:

When will I be pain-free?Every patient heals at a different pace, and it can take months for swelling, bruising, and stiffness to subside. You may, in fact, never be entirely pain-free, but you should feel in control of your pain. If extreme pain persists, reach out to the Care Team to learn what exercises or treatments might help.

Q:

Banner Health 57

Notes


06 / Tips and FAQs

Notes

Banner Health 59

bannerhealth.com

your knee replacement care & recovery guide

Documents