During knee replacement surgery, an implant is used to replace a worn-out knee joint. This portion of the eMedTV archives discusses this surgery in detail, including information on how the knee works and possible complications of the procedure.
This page of the eMedTV library discusses common reasons for a total knee replacement. In many cases, this surgery is recommended when arthritis causes pain and decreased range of motion in the knee that can't be relieved through alternative methods.
This eMedTV Web page discusses some things to consider as you prepare for knee replacement surgery, such as when you should stop eating and drinking, and information you should share with your healthcare provider.
On the day of total knee replacement, you will be given an EKG and an intravenous line for medications. This eMedTV Web page discusses what else you can expect on the day of your surgery and how to prepare yourself beforehand.
This segment of the eMedTV archives describes what to expect with regards to knee replacement surgery and the operating room. It lists common pieces of equipment you might see and typical sounds you might hear.
This segment of the eMedTV archives explains the two most common types of total knee replacement anesthesia: general and spinal, how each is administered, and how they work during your knee replacement surgery.
Knee replacement surgery is typically performed to replace a knee joint that is worn out. This portion of the eMedTV archives discusses what happens before, during, and after this surgery and what the implant is typically made of.
After knee replacement surgery, a machine will be placed on your leg to increase its range of motion. As this eMedTV Web page explains, you will also be given physical therapy and pain medications as part of your knee replacement recovery.
This eMedTV Web page offers statistics on results from knee replacement surgery -- most patients obtain relief from their symptoms. This page also emphasizes the importance of discussing total knee replacement expectations with your doctor.
Knee replacement alternatives can include physical therapy, weight loss, and managing medical conditions. This eMedTV Web page explains these alternatives in detail and also explains why knee replacement surgery may be recommended.
People with diabetes are more likely to have complications, such as infections, following surgeries. This eMedTV page discusses diabetics and knee replacement surgery, symptoms of abnormal blood sugar levels, and how to minimize complications.
Complications from knee replacement surgery can be minor or major. This eMedTV page lists these possible complications, such as infections and bleeding, and risk factors that can lead to these complications, such as other existing medical conditions.
Vascular injuries are a rare complication associated with knee replacement surgery. This eMedTV segment discusses why vascular injury during a total knee replacement may occur and how it is treated.
This eMedTV Web page discusses the likelihood of tendon injury during knee replacement surgery and how it is treated. It is possible for this injury to occur if the tendon tears away from the bone when the knee is bent during the surgery.
Because the skin is cut during total knee replacement surgery, you will have a scar. However, as this eMedTV segment explains, scar formation following knee replacement surgery is not necessarily a reflection of the results of the surgery.
If you have knee replacement surgery, it is possible for nerve injuries to occur. As this eMedTV article explains, most nerve injuries with knee replacement surgery are temporary; however, permanent damage can result in some cases.
An infection after total knee replacement surgery occurs in about 1 to 2 out of every 100 surgeries. This eMedTV Web page discusses the range of infections that can occur and explains how they may be treated with antibiotics or a repeat surgery.
This page of the eMedTV Web site offers statistics about how common loosening of the implant after knee replacement surgery is, discusses treatment options, and also explains the reasons why this complication occurs.
Although rare, it is possible to have a heart attack during or after knee replacement surgery. This eMedTV page discusses the link between a heart attack with knee replacement surgery, what a heart attack is, and how your doctor works to prevent it.
While uncommon, it is possible to fracture bones during or after total knee replacement. The information in this eMedTV page discusses fractures and knee replacement surgery and possible treatment options, such as a repeat surgery or a bone graft.
Blood clots with a total knee replacement are typically small and handled by your body. This segment of the eMedTV library discusses how clots form, what factors can make them dangerous, and how they are usually treated.
While some bleeding during surgery is expected, severe bleeding may require a blood transfusion. This eMedTV segment discusses the link between bleeding and total knee replacement, how it is treated, and the chances of contracting an illness.
This eMedTV page discusses arthritis, steroids, and total knee replacement, as well as the importance of communicating with your doctors. If you take steroids or have arthritis, you are more likely to have complications with this surgery.
You may have an adverse reaction to the anesthesia used for knee replacement surgery, although this is rare. This eMedTV page explains the link between an allergic reaction and knee replacement surgery, possible symptoms, and how you can prevent it.
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