Introduction

If you have been scheduled for total knee replacement surgery, there are certain things that will happen both pre-operatively and post-operatively of which you should be aware.

Normally, your surgery will take place approximately 4-6 weeks from the time of scheduling. During this time, you will be busy; you will have blood tests, urine tests, x-rays and possibly some special scans. If you are over 40 years of age, you normally will also require a chest x-ray and
Electrocardiogram. These tests will be ordered either by your surgeon or can be performed by your internist.

You will be asked to donate your own blood pre-operatively so that it may be given back to you during and after surgery. This is extremely helpful in avoiding transfusion reactions. Your surgeon will inform you whether you are a candidate for this procedure (called "autologous blood donation"). If so, arrangements will be made at a local Blood Bank to donate blood approximately once per week. A total of 2 units are usually requested.You will be given a prescription for iron pills to help you replace the blood that is taken.

You will need to have a complete history and physical examination performed by an internist or family practitioner. This can either be your own private physician or one that your surgeon recommends. It is usually best if this physician has privileges at Sutter General so that he/she can be available to manage any medical problems that may arise after surgery. The purpose of this visit will be to determine if you are medically able to undergo the surgery. Some additional consultations may be required from other specialists such as cardiologists, pulmonary specialists. and anesthesiologists. These will also be arranged prior to your surgery if they are needed.