Preparing for Total Knee Replacement - Bradford S. Waddell, MD

Dr. Bradford S. Waddell discusses the importance of preparing for total knee replacement surgery by addressing modifiable risk factors to ensure a successful outcome. Key recommendations include achieving a healthy weight, controlling diabetes, quitting smoking, and improving nutrition. Nicotine's adverse effects on blood vessel constriction and nutrient delivery to the knee post-surgery are highlighted. Assessing vitamin levels and overall nutritional status can identify malnutrition risks. Prehabilitation, focusing on enhancing muscle strength and mobility before surgery, is emphasized as critical for patient readiness. Simple fitness assessments, such as walking a city block or climbing stairs without shortness of breath, are used to gauge preoperative physical condition. These steps are pivotal in making patients safer candidates for surgery and improving their recovery prospects.
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