How long will my knee replacement last?
Although there is a perception that a knee replacements last for about 10 years, in reality most studies show a 10 year survival rate of 90% suggesting the vast majority will last well beyond 10 years.
Can my knee replacement be re-done?
There are many potential reasons why a replacement might fail. The majority of failures can be rectified by further surgery. Often the most challenging cases needing revision are infection-related and these may require multiple operations to obtain satisfactory results. In the majority of cases of wear leading to failure at least one revision procedure would be feasible. Knee joints can be revised more than once if required.
Will I be able to run after a knee replacement operation?
Although running a short distance is possible on a knee replacement, the higher impact activities such as running do potentially lead to early loosening and would not be encouraged by the majority of surgeons.
Will my knee replacement set off airport security?
This used to be quite variable from airport-to-airport and patient-to-patient but with increasing airport security and sensitivity of metal detectors it is becoming more and more likely that a joint replacement will set off security alarms. Patients often ask for a letter to confirm that they have a knee replacement but in reality informing the staff is normally adequate.
Will I be able to kneel after knee replacemtent?
Although kneeling is safe with most prostheses it is not always comfortable particularly as the scar is over the front of the knee. The tibial bone in that area can be quite sensitive. It is my view that kneeling is safe if comfortable. The amount of flexion of the knee does also vary from patient-to-patient and may make kneeling relatively more satisfactory in some people than others.
When will I be able to drive again?
The simplest answer is when it is safe. In an automatic after left knee replacement this is as soon as the knee is comfortable enough to sit in the car. As far as the right leg is concerned, experimental evidence suggests an average time to regain sufficient reaction-time to be safe is approximately 6 weeks. This is an average and does vary from person to person but it is sensible to inform the insurance company regarding these matters.
When can I fly?
The risk of flying is largely related to the risk of DVT following major lower limb surgery. This risk decreases with time and is also related to the length of flight. My advice would be to avoid long-haul flights if possible for approximately 6 weeks, short-haul for approximately 4 weeks. If these flights are necessary appropriate thrombosis-prevention flight stockings, regular stretching, mobilising on the flight and use of appropriate anti coagulation is recommended.