The operation is performed under Spinal anaesthesia, with an Epidural catheter for post-operative pain relief. The orthopedic surgeon makes an incision over the affected knee. Dr Pispati makes as small an incision as possible (Minimally Invasive surgery) and has special instruments for this purpose The patella (knee cap) is moved out of the way, and the ends of the femur and tibia are cut to fit the prosthesis and to provide better adhesion of the prosthesis. Similarly, the undersurface of the knee cap is cut to allow for placement of an artificial component.

The parts of the prosthesis are implanted onto the ends of the thigh bone (femur), the shin bone (tibia), and the undersurface of the knee cap (patella) using a special bone cement. Usually, metal is used on the end of the femur, metal/plastic on the tibia and plastic on the patella, for the new knee surface. In young patients, we perform Ceramic Knee Replacement which is longlasting - Dr. Pispati is a pioneer in this technology.

We use Computer Navigation to ensure that the Knee Replacement parts are placed in perfect alignment. We also use specialised Knee Replacement designs that allow you greater movement (high flexion knees, mobile bearing knees). We use Muscle-splitting techniques to allow you quicker recovery.

You will return from surgery with a large dressing on the knee area. A small drainage tube will be placed during surgery to help drain excess fluids from the joint area.

Your leg will be placed in a continuous passive motion (CPM) device after surgery. This is a mechanical device that flexes (bends) and extends (straightens) the knee to keep the knee from getting stiff.

Gradually, the rate and amount of flexion will be increased as tolerated. The CPM device helps speed recovery, decreases post-operative pain, bleeding and infection.

You may experience moderate pain after surgery. However, you may receive injections of narcotic medications, patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) or epidural analgesics (spinal) to control your pain for the first 3 days after surgery.

The pain should gradually decrease, and by the third day after surgery, oral medications may be sufficient to control your pain. We try to schedule your pain medications about half an hour before walking.

You will also return from surgery with several IV lines in place to provide fluid and nutrition. The IV will remain in place until you are taking adequate amounts of fluids by mouth and till you receive Intravenous antibiotics. Antibiotics are given to reduce the risk of developing an infection.

You will receive daily injections of Low molecular weight heparin to prevent blood clots developing in the veins of your legs. Additionally, you will be encouraged to start moving and walking as early as the first/second day after surgery. When in bed, you are required to move your ankles frequently to prevent development of blood clots.

A Foley catheter (for urine) is inserted during surgery to monitor the function of your kidneys and hydration level. This will be removed on the second or third day after surgery.

The patient can walk the next day after surgery and can go home in 5 to 7 days.

Daily Physical Therapy is required for about 3 weeks.