Facing knee surgery can be a mix of emotions—relief that help is on the way and apprehension about the procedure itself. It’s perfectly natural to feel this way. Well, it might comfort you to know that while knee surgery is quite common around the Bay Area, the success rate is high. That said, let’s get you some practical advice on how to prepare for knee surgery, as well as what to expect throughout the process, so there can be less anxiety.

Types of Knee Surgery

These are the types of knee surgeries your surgeon may recommend:

1. Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive procedure that uses small incisions and a camera to diagnose and treat various knee conditions.
2. Partial Knee Replacement: This involves replacing only the damaged part of the knee joint with an artificial implant.
3. Total Knee Replacement: Replaces the entire knee joint with an artificial implant.
4. ACL Reconstruction: Repairs a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) using a graft from another part of your body.
5. Meniscus Repair: Repairs or trims the meniscus, the cushioning cartilage in your knee.

Preparing for Knee Surgery: Physical and Emotional Readiness

1. Communicate with Your Surgeon

As you can see, different types of surgery may be prescribed based on your situation. To make your knee surgery in the Bay Area and Oakland a pleasant experience, start by having an open and honest conversation with your surgeon. Ask questions, discuss your concerns, and make sure you fully understand the procedure and its expected outcomes. There’s less anxiety when you are informed and confident in your surgeon’s expertise.

2. Pre-Surgery Evaluation

This involves a physical examination, medical history review, and possibly some tests like blood work and imaging. Provide accurate information about your health and any medications or supplements you’re taking.

3. Lifestyle Adjustments

In the weeks leading up to your surgery, consider making some lifestyle adjustments, like quitting smoking and losing some weight if you’re overweight. Losing weight can reduce stress on your knee joint and improve surgical outcomes.

5. Home Preparations

Arrange your home to accommodate your post-surgery needs. This might include:

• Creating a comfortable recovery area with easy access to necessities.
• Installing safety bars in the bathroom.
• Removing tripping hazards.

If you have a family at home to help you during recovery, all the better. Remember that emotional/social support is just as important as physical support.

The Day Before Your Knee Surgery

Your surgeon will provide specific instructions about when to stop eating and drinking before the surgery. Adhering to these guidelines is crucial to prevent complications during the procedure. Shower and wash your knees and legs thoroughly. Remove all makeup, nail polish, and jewelry.

To make things easier on the day of the surgery, start packing your essential items now into a small bag. Essentials include identification, insurance cards, and any paperwork your surgeon has given you.

The Day of Your Knee Surgery

It’s natural to feel nervous on the day of your surgery. But don’t fret. On your arrival at the hospital or surgical center, you’ll go through a check-in process where you’ll be asked to confirm your identity and provide consent for the surgery.

You’ll then be taken to a pre-operative area, where you’ll change into a hospital gown. You may receive an IV for fluids and medications. The anesthesiologist will also meet with you to discuss anesthesia options.

Once everything is in place, you’ll be taken to the operating room. If you still feel anxious, Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation to manage your anxiety.

The surgical team will ensure you’re comfortable, and anesthesia will be administered. You’ll be asleep for the duration of the surgery.

After the surgery, you’ll be taken to a recovery area, where the medical team will closely monitor your vital signs. You might experience some pain, but pain management will be provided.

Post-Surgery Recovery

As you wake up from anesthesia, you’ll likely feel groggy. Over the next few days and weeks, you’ll gradually regain mobility and start your physical therapy after surgery.

Your medical team will work with you to manage pain, which is a natural part of the healing process. They might also put you on physical therapy to aid your knee surgery recovery. It’s all about having a
therapist guiding you through exercises to regain strength and mobility.

You’ll have follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your recovery plan. Note that recovery takes time, so be patient with yourself. It’s
normal to have good days and challenging days. Your support system and healthcare team are there to help you every step of the way.

Wrapping Up

So, there you have it—all you need to know as you prepare for your knee surgery. Knee surgeons in the Bay Area and around Oakland are very good, so chances are you are in safe hands. The emotions would still be there, but knowing what to expect and having a solid plan in place can ease some of the anxiety.