How Long Does Double Knee Replacement Surgery Take?
How Long Does Double Knee Replacement Surgery Take? Have you thought about getting both your knees replaced? Many people face this question every year. The time it takes for double knee replacement surgery is a big part of the decision. If you are looking into this we want to help by giving clear facts.
Double knee replacement might sound daunting but it’s a common choice when both knees have worn out. It can give back good movement and ease pain. People often ask how long they will be in surgery and what comes after that.
The answer varies from person to person based on many things like health and age. But don’t worry! We’ll walk through what affects the length of the operation and recovery too. Our goal is to make sure you have all the info you need to plan ahead.
What is Double Knee Replacement Surgery?
Double knee replacement surgery replaces both of your knees at once. It’s done when both knees have bad damage from arthritis or injury. This procedure can help ease pain and improve how you move each day. It involves taking out the damaged parts of the knee joints. Then these are replaced with man-made parts.
The main purpose of this surgery is to let people walk better without pain. Many find they can do more things after they heal from this operation. The goal is for new knees to work much like healthy natural ones would. This kind of treatment has helped lots of people get back to living a full life.
As for the duration it takes a few hours in most cases. How long exactly depends on many little details unique to each person having it done. A skilled team works together during this time in an operating room set up just for such procedures.
After surgery comes recovery which is key to getting good results from your new knees. You’ll spend some time in care after leaving the operation room before heading home or moving on to another place for rehab work. Your health team will tell you what steps come next and how long each part should take.
How Long Does the Surgery Take?
The time it takes to complete double knee replacement surgery often sits around several hours. This duration can be less or more based on your situation. A surgeon who is adept in joint replacements will lead a team through this complex procedure. The number of staff and their skill level might also affect how long the operation lasts.
Before the actual surgery begins preparation is key. You’ll spend some time getting ready in a pre-op area where nurses will check on you. After that moving you into the operating room takes a bit of time as well. There everything must be set up to make sure things go smoothly.
Once the surgery starts each knee takes about 1 to 2 hours on average. However remember that these are just rough estimates; each case is unique! Your doctor may work faster or take extra care if needed for the best outcome possible.
After both knees have been replaced comes closing up and taking you into recovery safely. All these steps add up when we talk about total duration from start to finish. Rest assured though; your health team aims to do what’s best for you within an optimal timeframe!
Recovery Process
Once double knee replacement surgery is done the recovery process is next on your journey. This starts right after you wake up from the operation. You’ll be in a recovery room first where nurses watch over you closely. They’ll check that your heart and breathing are both okay.
In the days following you will begin to move around with help. A physical therapist may show you exercises to do for stronger legs and knees. Pain management is also a big part of getting better after this surgery. Your team will give medicine if needed and tell how to use it safe at home.
Going home or perhaps staying somewhere else for more rehab could be what happens next for you. The time it takes to get back to normal can vary quite a bit – weeks or even months! But many people see great results after they heal and find they can enjoy life more again.
Benefits of Double Knee Replacement Surgery
Double knee replacement surgery offers many advantages for those with joint pain. First it can greatly reduce or even eliminate the chronic pain in your knees. This lets you move more easily and do daily tasks without that constant ache.
Getting both knees done at once means one period of healing instead of two. This is efficient as you won’t have to go through recovery twice. You will be able to get back to a more active life sooner than if you had two separate surgeries.
Better movement is another big plus from this procedure. With new knees many people find they can walk smoother and stand longer than before. The improved mobility often leads to better overall health and quality of life too.
The materials used in double knee replacements are made to last a long time these days. That means less worry about having the same surgery again soon. These durable parts are designed to withstand lots of use over the years.
Lastly, when both knees work well together after surgery, there’s less stress on other body parts like hips and ankles. Keeping your whole body in good shape becomes easier when your knees aren’t causing problems anymore!
Risks and Complications
Like any major surgery double knee replacement comes with certain risks. It’s important to know these before deciding on the procedure. Infection is one risk that can happen at the site of the surgery. Blood clots are another possible issue that could occur after being under anesthesia.
There may also be risks related to how your body reacts to the artificial joints. Your body might not accept them well which could cause pain or other problems. There’s a chance you’ll need more medical care if this happens.
Another complication could involve the new knees wearing out over time. Though they’re built to last active lifestyles might speed up their wear and tear. If you do lots of heavy work or sports talk about this with your doctor first.
Nerve damage around the knee area is a less common but serious risk too. This could change how you feel in that part of your leg or foot afterward. Surgeons take great care to avoid this during operation though!
Lastly there’s always a small chance things won’t go as planned and you won’t get all the benefits hoped for from surgery like this. But remember: most people have good results and find relief from joint pain through double knee replacement!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I walk after double knee replacement surgery?
A: Yes, with help and as part of your recovery, you will start walking soon after the surgery.
Q: How long will my new knees last?
A: Artificial knees can last 15-20 years or more but this depends on many factors like activity level.
Q: What kind of help will I need at home during recovery?
A: You may need assistance with daily tasks and exercises. It’s best to arrange for support ahead of time.
Please note that these answers are for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice.
