Recovering at Home: The Essentials of Same-Day Knee Replacement Surgery 
Recent groundbreaking advancements in same-day knee replacement procedures allow patients to experience the convenience of returning home on the same day or the following day after surgery. Knee replacement recipients can be more comfortable during recovery and benefit from reduced hospital expenses with peace of mind.
Patients who elect from outpatient knee replacement must be in good health, highly motivated, and prepared. Let’s discuss the essential steps that should be taken to effectively recover at home after same-day knee replacement surgery.
Designated Recovery Space: Before surgery, prepare your home to accommodate your recovery. To do this, clear pathways by moving furniture and tripping hazards that could get in your way. If your bedroom is not on the main floor of your home, consider making a temporary, comfortable sleeping space to avoid climbing stairs.
Helping Hand: One of the most essential tools to have while recovering at home is a helping hand. Ask a friend or family member to stay with you during the early stages of your recovery to assist you in moving around, meals, errands, and more. Having a helper will take a lot of pressure off of you, enabling you to get the rest you need after surgery.
Assistive Devices: In the initial weeks following your knee replacement, mobility will be limited. Your physician may provide you with an assistive device such as crutches, a walker, or a cane. Make sure to keep these within reach at all times to avoid putting unnecessary weight on your healing knee.
Pain Medication: During recovery, pain in your knee is expected. Your surgeon will likely prescribe pain medications to help ease your discomfort. To keep your pain at bay make sure to strictly adhere to the dosage schedule, keep your medication within reach, and pick up any refills promptly.
Wound Care: While recovering at home, it will be up to you to regularly clean and monitor your healing wound. Make sure to regularly inspect the incision site, keep it dry, and change the dressing often to avoid infection.
Good Nutrition and Hydration: While at home, it is essential to maintain good nutrition and stay hydrated throughout the healing process. Eating balanced and nutritious meals will encourage healing, while proper hydration will reduce inflammation and increase blood flow. Do your grocery shopping or cooking before your surgery, to make meal planning easy and convenient.
Balance of Rest and Rehabilitation: Both rest and rehabilitation are essential components of the recovery process. While it may be tempting to prioritize rest at home for healing, achieving optimal surgical results requires incorporating targeted exercises into your routine. Engaging in specific knee exercises helps gradually enhance strength and flexibility in your new knee. It is crucial, however, to consistently follow the guidance provided by your physical therapist and healthcare team to ensure a safe and effective rehabilitation journey.
Upon returning home from knee replacement surgery, remember that you are not alone. Your surgeon will schedule regular follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery progress, and your physical therapist will guide you toward regaining strength through weekly sessions.
Dr. Amir Jamali offers same-day knee replacement and uses the latest advances in orthopedic surgery, including minimally invasive techniques and robotic assistance.
AUTHOR: Dr. Amir Jamali, founder of the Joint Preservation Institute, is a board-certified fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon in Northern California specializing in treatments for the knee, hip and shoulder.
