Advertisement
Care for your surgery site after knee replacement surgery includes the following:
- Staples or sutures: If your doctor closed your wound with staples or sutures (stitches), you'll get instructions on how to clean the area and change the dressing. Your doctor may want you to leave the dressing on as long as it is clean and dry or may want you to change the dressing. The staples will be removed by your doctor or therapist.
- Showering: Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, you can shower once you are home and are able to move safely in the bathroom. If you're not steady, get help with your shower so you don't fall. Do not immerse your knee incisions in a bath, swimming pool or hot tub until your surgeon says it's okay.
- Steri-strips: On your surgery site you may see special strips of tape called steri-strips. Steri-strips help keep the skin closed while it heals. Leave the steri-strips in place until your healthcare provider tells you it's okay to remove them. It's okay to get the steri-strips wet in your shower—just gently pat the area dry when you are done.
Continue Learning about Knee Replacement
Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.