Keep your incision dry for the next 24 hours. After that, you may shower if you feel safe. The steri-strips should fall off in 5-7 days. If they do not, remove them.
Wear your TED stockings on the operative leg until the swelling in your leg is gone. You may only need them during the day. You do not need to wear them on the opposite leg.
HIPS: Continue to obey ALL the hip precautions, which you can review on this web site under "Discharge Instructions," for 6 weeks after surgery.
KNEES: Do your exercises(see "knee exercises" under total knee replacement section of this website) 10 times each 2-3 times per day. At week 4, begin home exercise program to strengthen leg muscles.
You may switch to a cane when you feel safe. Use cane in the opposite hand from your operative leg.
Continue taking coated aspirin 325 mg twice per day for 6 weeks after surgery. If you are taking Coumadin, do not take aspirin.
When you need a refill of your pain medication, please call the office two days before you will run out, between the hours of 8 am and 4 pm to give us the time to respond to your needs.
You may drive 4-6 weeks after surgery, ONLY IF YOU FEEL SAFE.
You should expect continued pain, swelling and bruising. Your leg and ankle may stay swollen for 4-6 weeks after surgery. Call the office for a temperature greater than 101, persistent drainage from the incision, increased swelling, redness or warmth in the leg that is not relieved by elevation, rest and ice.
