| Preparing For A Knee Replacement |
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| The General Exam Prior To Surgery. |
Dr. Vaidya recommends, getting yourself evaluated several days to a few weeks before surgery which usually consisting of: |
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| Blood work/Urine test - |
| A complete blood count may be determined to finalize the "all clear" for surgery. Because there may be a need for blood transfusion during or after the surgery, blood tests will be needed for blood matching. |
| ECG- |
| Provides information regarding the condition of the heart for surgery. |
| Chest x-ray - |
| Provides information about the respiratory status of the individual. |
| Anesthesia consult - |
| An anesthesiologist, who is a medical doctor specializing in anesthesia, will explain what types and options of anesthesia are available for the knee surgery. Total knee replacement is usually performed under a spinal and epidural anesthesia where an injection is given into the spine numbing both legs. The individual is conscious but comfortably sedated. |
| Assessment by a member of the nursing staff - |
| The nurse will meet with the individual to explain and describe the nursing care prior to and after the surgery. |
| Assessment by a physical therapist and occupational therapist - |
| This part of the rehabilitative team will provide preoperative education to help prepare for the surgery. The physical and occupational therapist can assist with preoperative programs to include exercises as well as arranging for special equipment that may be needed after the surgery such as walkers, canes and reaching aides. |
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| Other preparations |
| Dental - |
| Some individuals may be asked to have a dental check up if there has not been one recently. Dental problems that have been previously addressed before knee replacement can prevent infections that might affect the new joint. |
| Eating and drinking instructions - |
| The person undergoing surgery for total knee replacement will be given specific instructions regarding eating and drinking before surgery following guidelines from the of anesthesia department of that specific hospital. |
| Current list of prescription and non-prescription medications - |
| The physician, anesthesiologist and nursing staff will need a current list of all prescription and non-prescription medications being taken. Instructions may be given to discontinue aspirin or aspirin containing medications two weeks prior to surgery at the discretion of the surgeon. |
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