Life long antibiotics after knee repacement

I'd be interested in your Question, too. I had the same issue.

I only learned after my tkr surgery that an important question we should all be asking about any surgery is....what is their infection rate. I was lucky because my surgeon had a very low rate of infection. I wish us all well.

I had TKR in March 2024 and was told antibiotics are recommended when undergoing certain procedures and which type depending on the procedure. I am used to taking amoxicillin for dental appointments so always have it on hand. Since that is twice a year, I don't worry about side effects or taking too much although there are other instances listed on the little notice I carry in my wallet. It cautions to check with "your physician or dentist for a discussion on considering antibiotic treatment" prior to those listed or others. Glad it is only twice a year now.

I have not had an issue with my TKR however I did take antibiotics for like 3 months due to chronic UTI's and I had to stop taking them. The were giving more issues than it was worth taking them profilactilly (sp). It was a low dose as well but in your case it might be more devastating to stop them. Staph in rections can be dangerous. Praying they find just the right one for you.

Hi.
I recently had an orthopedic surgery. In preparation for the surgery (and I was also taking a master's level class in Healthcare Systems Engineering) I wanted to look at the process for preventing infections. There is a great deal involved with the process. I looked at how the day of surgery works in prevention, and I also look at what the patient does (I was the patient!). Everything that you do to minimize infection (as a patient) can impact the outcome (surgery). Surgeons and their staff have their accountability as well. It's the little preventative things you do that will make a difference.

Do you know if it's standard practice for antibiotics to be prescribed after TKR surgery? I got a bad staph infection and sepsis as well.

Not only that but it is important to ask while interviewing as surgeons......what is your infection rate.

Interested in what preventative maintenance you did? Thanks, Sharon

I was totally impressed by the health grade reports, as well as other reports in regards to the health system where I had my surgery- one of the top places nationally for joint replacement. Surgery site infection rates are easily available when searching for a joint replacement facility. Definitely ask the surgeon as well.
The week long prep of a thorough Hibiclens from head to toe and the instructions to place decontaminating antibiotic Mupirocin ointment nasally, to help prevent surgical site infections before surgery also made me feel they had my best interests.

My biggest regret of my knee replacement preparation/questions was not finding out the typical recovery measurements, and how it is followed. I had no idea about flexion and extension measurements, and what they should be at certain weeks of recovery. I ended up having to get a manipulation under anesthesia at 11 weeks post-op. It started recovery and PT all over again (minus the incision issue). Ask the surgeon how they will follow up after surgery. I really missed that mark for sure. Seems like the surgeons are most interested in getting you in the door only perhaps?

I am having dental filling today since TNR three months ago. Will take Ampicillin an hour before. Yes, twice a year for cleaning but
fillings also need antibiotic. But I read about
antibiotic resistance, so will ask my dentist if I need to
take it for further procedures.