Sports Medicine Oregon

Avoiding Problems After Knee Surgery

Richard H. Edelson, M.D.

Be Sure to Prevent Blood Clots

Blood clots can be a real danger after knee surgery. Your orthopedist will instruct you on how to watch out for them. Be sure to pay close attention and follow instructions.

Be Alert to These Signs

If you have a blood clot in your leg, you may see some of the following signs:

Your lower leg may swell. This could include your calf, ankle and/or foot.

Your calf may be very painful.

Your knee replacement may be quite tender, red and swollen.

You may experience a sudden onset of chest pain.

Your chest pain may bring on coughing.

If a blood clot has moved into your lung, some of the following signs may occur:

You may find yourself short of breath without notice.

If this happens, you must notify your health care professional right away.

Take The Necessary Steps to Prevent Infection

It is possible for your knee to pick up an infection after your surgery. This could happen because bacteria from another condition, such as dental work, urinary tract infection or skin damage, has migrated to the site of your surgery.

This is the reason routine antibiotics are prescribed after surgery. Even if you feel quite well, be sure to take all of your antibiotics per your doctor's orders. This will prevent infection to your new knee replacement.

Here Are The Things You Should Watch For Regarding Knee Replacement Infection

Your knee may be quite painful at rest and when active.

You may experience shaking and chills.

You may find that the area around your knee replacement is inflamed, tender and quite swollen.

You may experience a persistent fever of 100 degrees F or more.

Your surgery site may drain.

Be sure to contact your doctor right away if any of these signs occur.

Be Careful Not to Fall Soon After Your Surgery

To avoid damage to your knee replacement, you must take great care not to fall while you are recovering. To do so could mean more surgery to repair your damaged knee replacement. Follow your doctor's orders regarding use of cane, walker, or crutches. Always ask for help when you need it, and take advantage of any hand railings you might be able to use. Exercise extreme caution until you have completely recovered your flexibility, balance and strength.

Talk with your physical therapist or your surgeon about which type of assistive device will best suit your needs and your lifestyle. Be sure to confer with your specialist again before discontinuing use.

Related articles