The surgeons also wear space suits . These full body suits, worn over normal scrubs, let the surgeons move and breathe without spreading germs, since an exhaust tube carries dirty air out of the room. Long term complications such as wear, stiffness or loosening of the parts relate as much to patient behavior as to surgical success. However, these problem knees can usually be improved through revision surgery. The short-term outlook of total knee replacement is excellent.
Most patients can stand the morning after surgery and begin exercise that day.
With the support of walkers or crutches, patients can walk with confidence, climb stairs and ride in a car by the time they leave the hospital. Physical therapy and motion exercises are the key to a good result and these should continue for months. Some swelling, aching and numbing are normal during this time. Most patients are up and about within six weeks after surgery. The patient can influence these odds by staying at an ideal weight, exercising, protecting against infection and avoiding impact sports.