KNEE ARTHROSCOPY – POST OP
INCISION and DRESSING
Following arthroscopic knee surgery small pieces of tape (steri-strips) are placed over each small incision and a soft dressing is wrapped loosely around the knee. An elastic wrap covers the dressing. You should loosen the outer wrap and the soft dressing underneath after 24 hours. The steri-strips should be left in place for 7 to 10 days. The incisions should be kept clean and dry; do not apply any creams or ointments to the incisions. Cover the knee with plastic bags or wraps when showering.
PAIN
Medications will be prescribed to control any post-operative pain you may experience. Applying cold compresses to the knee is a very effective method of pain control and can be used for the first few days after surgery. Be careful to not apply any ice cold compress directly to bare skin as injury can occur in a short period of time. When you are sitting or lying down elevate the knee with pillows or cushions to help control swelling.
ACTIVITY
Keep a low level of activity for the first 3 to 5 days after surgery. You may bear weight on the affected knee as necessary unless otherwise instructed. A slight limp should be expected. Avoid crawling, kneeling, or significant squatting. Gentle stretching three times per day is encouraged with a goal of regaining a normal ability to fully straighten and bend the knee. Ten days after surgery you may begin riding a stationary bike. Raise your seat high and use low resistance to start with. Start slow and gradually build up your time and the tension used during cycling. Stair master or elliptical machines can be started two weeks after surgery.
Physical therapy is prescribed for individuals that require assistance for rehabilitation.
You may resume driving when you are not limping and are no longer on pain medication
POST-OPERATIVE VISITS
Your first post-operative visit has been scheduled for: ____________________________________
During this visit we will change your dressings and provide you with your rehabilitation instructions.
If you have any concerns or questions about your surgery or need to schedule a clinic visit call (425) 823-4000
! Warnings !
Please notify us immediately at (425) 823-4000 if you notice any of the following:
- Temperature >100.5 on 2 successive measurements
- Significant increase in knee or calf pain
- Significant increase in leg or calf swelling
- Numbness or tingling in your leg or foot