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On the Road to Recovery

Discover what to expect before and after knee replacement surgery.
Outpatient Surgery
More people are having knee replacement surgery in outpatient surgery centers, also known as ambulatory surgery centers or ASCs. These centers are becoming a popular choice because they can offer excellent results and a lower risk of complications for many patients.1
Is Outpatient Surgery Right for You?
With a well-structured care plan before, during, and after surgery, many patients who are good candidates for UKA can safely go home the day of their knee replacement surgery. This approach helps streamline care, supports a smooth recovery, and often leads to high patient satisfaction.1

Partial knee replacement surgery is 19%-46% less expensive when performed in an outpatient setting.2

Illustration of a satisfaction meter with five faces ranging from sad to happy. The needle points to the happiest face, indicating a very positive rating.

95% of UKA patients would opt for same-day discharge again.3

Illustration of a medical professional wearing a surgical cap, mask, and scrubs, representing a healthcare worker or surgeon.

Your surgeon will conduct a thorough evaluation to determine if outpatient surgery is right for you.

Postoperative Care and Recovery

To ensure a smooth recovery and protect your knee implant, it is important that you strictly follow the postoperative regimen prescribed by your surgeon. Your surgeon should share the plan before you go to the hospital for surgery. Some patients may go home the same day, while others may stay overnight. Outcomes will cary from patient to patient.

0-2 Weeks: Early Recovery

‍Focus: Controlling pain, reducing swelling, protecting the knee, and regaining mobility

Typical expectations:

  • Weight-bearing as tolerated, using a walker or cane as needed  
  • Starting physical therapy, including range-of-motion exercises
  • Healing the incision by keeping the area clean, dry, and protected

2-6 Weeks: Strength and Mobility

Focus: Building strength while walking and reducing stiffness

Typical expectations:

  • Walking without the cane if you feel stable enough
  • Increasing daily activities, such as light chores and short outings
  • Continuing physical therapy
  • Removing stitches

6-12 Weeks: Functional Activity

Focus: Returning to low-impact activities

Typical expectations:

  • Walking longer distances 
  • Returning to many daily activities 
  • Performing light recreational activities
  • Continuing physical therapy

‍

3-6 Months: Advanced Mobility and Strength

Focus: Higher function, low-impact fitness, building confidence

Typical expectations:

  • Returning to low-impact sports, including golf, hiking, doubles tennis, and pickleball
  • Kneeling, as tolerated 
  • Continuing to gain strength and stamina

6-12 Months: Long-Term Recovery and Returning to Normal

Focus: Getting back to full activity

Typical expectations:

  • Returning to regular fitness routines
  • Resuming low-impact sports
  • Testing high-impact activities with your surgeon’s guidance
When to Contact Your Care Team

Reach out to your surgeon if you notice:

  • Increasing pain or swelling after initial improvement
  • Fever or incision changes
  • New instability or “giving way”
  • Difficulty progressing with therapy

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This is not medical advice and Arthrex recommends that surgeons be trained in the use of a particular product before using it in surgery. A surgeon must always rely on their own professional judgment when deciding whether to use a particular product when treating a particular patient. A surgeon must always refer to the package insert, product label, and/or directions for use before using any Arthrex product. Postoperative management is patient-specific and dependent on the treating professional's assessment. Individual results will vary and not all patients will experience the same postoperative activity level or outcomes. Products may not be available in all markets because product availability is subject to the regulatory or medical practices in individual markets. Please contact Arthrex if you have questions about availability of products in your area. Patient images, videos, and/or testimonials are used with written authorization from the patient.

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