After Knee Replacement: Right After Surgery

Support equipment

Special tubes and machines help you recover after surgery. They may include:

• An IV (intravenous) line to provide needed fluids and medicines

• A tube (catheter) to help drain your bladder

• A drainage tube in your leg to remove excess fluid that may build up, and to reduce swelling

• An ice machine or ice pack to reduce pain and inflammation that carries cold water to the knee joint

• A sequential compression machine to prevent blood clots by gently squeezing and then releasing your foot or calf

• A continual passive motion machine may be advised to increase flexibility by gently moving your knee

  

Managing pain

When pain is controlled, you’ll walk sooner and recover faster. So be honest about how much pain you feel. And don’t be afraid to ask for pain medicine when you need it. Your nurse may give you pain medicine by IV (intravenous) line into your hand or arm, or by mouth (orally) while in the hospital. You will be given a pain pill prescription for use at home. patient-controlled analgesia Tell your nurse if the medicines don’t reduce pain or if you suddenly feel worse.