Type of Surgery
Information

Last updated: 11/24/2009
Prior to surgery, x rays and other diagnostic tests are done on the knee to determine if removing the kneecap is the appropriate treatment. Preoperative blood and urine tests are also done.
Patients are asked not to eat or drink anything after...
midnight on the night before surgery. On the day of surgery, patients are directed to the hospital or clinic holding area where the final preparations are made. The knee area is usually shaved and the patient is asked to change into a hospital gown and to remove all jewelry, watches, dentures, and glasses.
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This narrated 3D animation shows the anatomy of the knee joint and how a knee replacement (artificial knee placement) takes place. The movement of the artificial joint is shown.
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Other Information
Kneecap removal, or patellectomy, is the surgical removal of the patella, commonly called the kneecap.
Kneecap removal is performed under either general or local anesthesia at a hospital or freestanding surgical center, by an orthopedic surgeon. The surgeon makes an incision around the kneecap. Then, the muscles and tendons attached to the kneecap are cut and the kneecap is removed. Next, the muscles are sewed back together, and the skin is closed with sutures or clips that stay in place about one week. Any hospital stay is generally brief.
Other Information
Orthopedic complaints are the most common reason to seek medical care.
From: About.com
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