Aftercare from a TKR

My husband traveled to Buffalo NY a decade ago to have a surgeon there who was one of the first doing bone-sparing techniques. I am certain that today’s technology would far surpass that experience, but he had a bit of time in a recovery unit and they showed him how to use the ice water contraption and got his pain meds filled internally - and then we went to a home wood suites near the hospital. They got a lot of patients so were prepared with a heavy plastic bag to get ice, etc

As wife of a terrible patient I would have much preferred they kept him a couple of nights 🙂

Good evening, @becky1398, and welcome to Connect. You haven't yet discussed your upcoming TKR with a medical professional. When will you be in Rochester? Here is a little bit of personal history that you may find helpful.

My first TKR was at least ten years ago. After surgery, I spent one night in the hospital recovery area. My surgeon paid a visit, as did a couple of friends. That was about it. After my release, I drove home at 6,000 ft up the mountain. I didn't know that the increase in altitude would present a pain severity problem. So, my call for help ended with a prescription for Nucynta, which helped compensate for the altitude. I also immediately went to our one local Physical Therapist, who appeared to know how to accommodate the altitude.

The second TKR was two years ago and was a robotic adventure. By noon on the morning of surgery, as soon as I could get in a wheelchair, I headed home. There were no climatic or altitude issues. The next day, I "jumped" on (haha) my walker and headed for the PT clinic to begin work on some exercises. Obviously, the surgery specifics had progressed in the ten years between the first and second TKR.
Just so you know, the first TKR knee is now a bit cranky, cracky, and painful. The second TKR, ten years later, is perfect with absolutely no discomfort.

So....we have altitude, aging, and advanced technology. Good luck to you. Don't forget to do the pre-surgical exercises. I am sure they made a difference in the outcome of my second TKR.

May you be safe, protected and free, from inner and outer harm.
Chris

I had my TKR in December in Rochester. The staff there was great. Outcomes vary by person, but I was able to go home the same day. And, I was hoping for that. I also agree with doing any exercises you can before surgery, as well as keeping up with whatever PT your surgeon recommends. Good luck to you.

Thank you for your response. I have been going to pt twice a week for about 4 months and will continue until surgery. Take care

I had TKR last July. I stayed overnight but I think that was mostly because I live alone.
malo

There are quite a few clinics now that advertise same day surgery, but it probably depends on your other health and risk factors which the Dr. can determine during the evaluation visit. Also, if your surgery is in the afternoon, depending on your recovery time from anesthesia, it may be too late in the day to find a doctor to clear you for discharge and get all the hospital business office paperwork done. The advantage to staying overnight is that you keep getting the IV drip pain killers and antibiotics a little longer as well the chance to ask questions of nursing staff if you feel uneasy about something.

Thank you for your response. You brought up things I had not thought about. Thanks

Thank you for your response. Take care

Thanks Paul. Everything anyone needs to know about a TKR is included in your succinct response. Well done! To summarize, get ready, get the surgery, get busy!

I traveled 5 hours, by car, for my TKR.
I had an outpatient procedure and went to a hotel for two nights. One recovery Day 1 a nurse and PT came to the hotel room. Day two we drove home.
I sat in the front seat with my knee extended. I iced the knee for 20 minutes each hour. We stopped every 75 minutes for me to get out and walk around. I am on day 6 and doing great. Do not let traveling deter you from going to a surgeon you comfortable with.
Good Luck to you!