What is a knee replacement?
Most patients with knee pain do not require surgery and are treated with therapy, braces, medication or even an injection. When your knee pain is not relieved by these treatments you may benefit from a knee replacement.
A knee replacement is a very successful surgery for those who need it and we are happy to help you through your surgery and recovery.
HOW LONG IS RECOVERY?
Recovering from your surgery can be a long process and you will be improving for up to one year after your surgery. You can expect to initially feel down and with low energy. Pain and swelling is common and you can expect aches and swelling for three months after your surgery. Your new joint replacement will be with you for the rest of your life so it is important that you take care of it. It is important to know that the joint replacement is not the knee or hip you had when you were younger and will always be different than your old joint. They can click and make sounds and will feel different than your old knee. The goal of your knee replacement is to be able to walk and perform your daily activities without pain and it is important that when you have surgery your goals are aligned with this.
partial or total Knee Replacement?
The most common knee replacement performed is a total knee where all of the joint surfaces of the knee are replaced with metal. For most patients with arthritis throughout their knee this is the best surgery to reliably treat their symptoms. In a partial knee replacement, patients with arthritis in only a small area of their knee have only a portion of their knee surface replaced with metal. This can allow for quicker recovery and a more normal feeling knee. However, it is not a good option for patients with arthritis throughout their knee. Both partial and total knee replacements are successful surgeries when performed in the right patient. Dr. Eskildsen performs both partial and total knee replacements and will discuss with you whether you are a good candidate based on your x-rays and your preferences.
INPATIENT OR OUTPATIENT?
Knee Replacements can be performed both in the hospital or at a surgery center where you can be discharge on the same day as your surgery. Most patients that have surgery outside of the hospital have less medical problems and are motivated to go home. Dr. Eskildsen is happy to discuss if you are a candidate for an outpatient surgery.
Dr. Eskildsen performs knee replacements at Rex Hospital and Raleigh Orthopaedic Surgery Center in Raleigh.