What are the tests before knee replacement surgery?

Approximately 1 in 4 adults in the United States are diagnosed with arthritis, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Advanced arthritis, a common cause of severe joint pain in the hips and knees, requires advanced treatment. When nonsurgical treatments such as physical therapy, medications, or other pain management techniques are no longer helpful in relieving knee pain, total knee replacement surgery may be an option. To determine if knee replacement surgery is right for you, your orthopedist will require an orthopedic evaluation and a series of tests before knee replacement surgery.

Preparing for surgery: The orthopedic evaluation

The first step before knee replacement surgery is an orthopedic evaluation, which includes:

• A physical exam. An exam with an orthopedic surgeon reveals knee strength, stability, motion, and overall alignment of the leg.
• A review of your medical history. The orthopedic surgeon learns more about your general health, the severity of your knee pain, and your ability to function.
• Imaging tests. X-rays and other types of diagnostic imaging, such as MRI, help the surgeon get a better view of the damage or abnormality in the knee. Imaging also influences the type of replacement implant that may be used during surgery.
• Other tests. Blood tests are sometimes needed to help determine the condition of the bone and soft tissues of the knee.

Once your orthopedic surgeon has the results of these tests, he or she will decide if knee replacement surgery is the most appropriate solution to improve your function and relieve your pain. Other treatment options may be discussed, as well as the potential risks and complications of knee replacement surgery.

Preparing for surgery: Additional tests

If knee replacement surgery is the most effective option to relieve your pain, your orthopedic surgeon will coordinate with your care team consisting of nurses and PAs, Jackie Shroyer, your Joint Care Navigator, and perioperative care.

Reid Health Perioperative Care has a new location within the Reid Health Comprehensive Bone & Joint Center. The service is designed to evaluate and optimize a patient's overall health prior to surgery to help ensure there are no hidden issues that could increase risk.

It is common to have several perioperative tests, including a chest X-ray, electrocardiogram (EKG), and blood tests, and you may also be asked to provide a urine sample. The results of these evaluations and tests help your orthopedic surgeon and care team determine if surgery is safe for you and anticipate potential problems that could arise during surgery. The results also provide information that reduces the chance of your knee replacement failing prematurely.

Although received before your surgery, perioperative care also helps ensure you are set-up for success to complete the recovery process, which includes working with a physical therapist soon after surgery to strengthen your leg and restore function and range of motion.

Millions of Americans live with joint pain in their knees, hips, shoulders, or spine. Although knee replacement and hip replacement surgeries can relieve pain, preventive measures such as getting plenty of sleep, eating a balanced diet, keeping a healthy weight, avoiding injuries, and staying physically active can keep your joints healthy and pain-free longer.

If you experience knee pain and want to know more about your options for pain relief, the orthopedic experts at Reid Health can help. Visit us online to schedule an appointment, request more information, or speak with someone from our office.