BOPDHB Patient Resources Hip and Knee joint replacement book - June 2016 | Page 51

Knee swelling after a knee replacement

At home

some weeks and sometimes months following surgery. There will
be swelling of the tissues around the wound that will decrease over
a few weeks to months.
Your knee will swell for several weeks after your operation.
Continue with your exercises. To further reduce swelling, when
resting, sit with your leg up, straight, and well supported. You can
use a bag of ice wrapped in a clean, damp cloth and mould this
around your knee for a maximum of 15 minutes to reduce swelling.
This can be done two to three times per day. It is important that you
do not keep ice on for long periods as it could result in an ice burn.

Limb swelling
If you have significant swelling of one or both of your legs that
does not reduce by having your leg up, then consult your GP. Your
GP may decide to perform an ultrasound scan or send you to the
hospital to investigate for a blood clot.
If you have any concerns regarding your health after your
discharge from hospital, please seek advice from your GP.
The following signs and symptoms are especially important:
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Chest pain
Calf pain or swelling
Shortness of breath
Fever or chills
Nausea or vomiting
Bleeding
If your wound becomes red, painful, inflamed, or has a lot of
oozing.

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