Post-operative Care
As with all major surgical procedures, knee replacement complications can occur for a small percentage of patients. Below is a list of potential knee replacement complications, and steps you can take to prevent their occurrence.
Thrombophlebitis:
This condition is also known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and it occurs when the large veins of the leg form blood clots and, in some instances, move to and become lodged in the capillaries of the lung; this can cause a pulmonary embolism. The following items can help avoid complications caused by blood clots:
• Blood-thinning medication (anticoagulants)
• Elastic stockings (TED hose)
• Foot and ankle exercises to increase blood flow and enhance recovery
IMPORTANT: If you develop swelling, redness, pain, and/or tenderness in the calf muscle, report this immediately to your orthopaedic surgeon or internist.
Infection:
Although great precautions are taken before, during, and after surgery,
infections do occur in a small percentage of patients following knee
replacement surgery. Steps you can take to minimize this risk include the following:
• Monitor
your incision closely and immediately report any redness, swelling,
tenderness, increased drainage, odor, fever above 100.4
degrees, or increasing pain.
• Take your antibiotics as directed and complete the recommended dosage duration.
• Strictly follow the incision care guidelines your surgeon recommends.
Pneumonia:
Because your lungs tend to become “lazy” as a result of the anesthesia,
secretions may pool at the base of your lungs; this can lead to lung
congestion or pneumonia. The following steps can help minimize
the risk of this complication:
• Deep
breathing exercises: A simple analogy to illustrate proper deep
breathing is to “smell the roses and blow out the candles.” In other
words, inhale through your nose, and exhale through your mouth -- at a
slow and controlled rate.
• Incentive
Spirometer: This simple device gives you visual feedback while you
perform your deep breathing exercises. Your nurse or respiratory
therapist will demonstrate proper technique. Consistent use of the spirometer can make a major difference in lung recovery after surgery.
Knee Stiffness:
In some cases, the mobility of your knee may be
significantly restricted after surgery, and you may develop a contracture in the joint
that will cause stiffness during walking or other activities. The following items will maximize your range of
motion after surgery:
• Strict adherence to the CPM protocol as prescribed by your surgeon
• Early physical therapy (Day 1 or 2) with range of motion exercises and a walking program
• Edema control to reduce swelling (ice, compression stocking, and elevation)
• Adequate pain control so you can tolerate the rehabilitation regime
Contents courtesy of knee-replacement-info.com