Mr. Rudolf PARDUBSKY
ORTHOPAEDIC SURGERY
hip & knee
Virtuosity
in hip & knee
surgery
Frequently asked questions.
This virtual space contains answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the hip and knee pain, treatment options and the aspects of your stay at the hospital when having the surgery as well as your daily life after the previous surgical procedures.
01
What causes hip/knee pain?
Most hip pain/knee has a very simple explanation, for example if you’ve overdone it while exercising. The pain is usually caused by strained or inflamed soft tissues such as tendons, and it often clears up within a few days. Long-term hip/knee pain can be caused by specific conditions. Pain caused by a problem in the hip joint can be felt in the groin, down the front of the leg and in the knee. Sometimes knee pain is the only sign of a hip problem. This is called referred pain, and it’s fairly common. Hip pain can also be felt in the buttock (although pain in this area can also be caused by problems with the lower back) or on the outside of the hip.
02
03
When should I have hip/knee replacement surgery?
Hip/knee replacement should be done when the wear and tear in the joint is causing symptoms which are affecting patients daily life and he/she is willing to accept the possible risks of the surgery. There is no harm in waiting if conservative, non-operative methods are controlling your discomfort however the condition of the peri-articular soft tissues, range of movement, alignemnt and stability of the joint should be taken into account. If these are becoming significantly affected, even in absence of pain, the potential outcome of the surgery can be compromised and may not be optimal.
Am I too old for hip/knee replacement surgery?
Age is not a problem if you are in reasonable health and have the desire to continue living a productive, active life. You may be asked to see the preoperative assessment team for an opinion about your general health and readiness for surgery.
04
Will I be happy with my hip/knee replacement?
One year after surgery, most patients - more than 95% in hip replacement and 85% in knee replacement - say the surgery fulfilled their expectations and that they would do it again. They are walking with minimal pain and generally are more active than before surgery. The knee replacement takes significantly longer time to be pain free than hip replacement. So the chances for success, if judged in this manner, are very high.
05
How long will my new hip/knee last, and can a second replacement be done?
We expect most hips and knees to last more than 15 years. However, there is no guarantee, and 5–10% may not last that long. A second replacement may be necessary.
06
07
When can I go back to work after hip/knee replacement?
It depends upon the nature of one's job. If a patient's job is fairly sedentary, he or she can probably return in 1 month. If one's work is active in nature, the patient may need up to 3 months off before returning to full-time duty. In some cases, more or less time off will be necessary.
When can I drive after hip/knee replacement?
Patients should wait 3-6 weeks before driving again, particularly if it is their right side that they have been operated upon. They should be completely off prescription pain medication.
08
When can I travel after hip/knee replacement?
Patients may travel once they feel comfortable doing so, as long as they can continue their prescribed exercises. They should get up to walk or stretch at least once an hour and stay well-hydrated if taking long trips in order to prevent blood clots.