This will vary greatly depending on your pre operative level of fitness, the type of operation performed and the particular work you do. The following is therefore only a rough guideline.
Total Knee Replacement
Up to 5 day stay in hospital 6 weeks before driving 6 weeks may return to light duties 12 weeks return to heavy duties 1 year before full recovery Unicompartmental Knee Replacement up to 2 day stay in hospital 2 to 6 weeks before driving |
Meniscectomy (cartilage removal)
Day case procedure 1 week return to light work 2 to 6 weeks to heavy work Meniscal repair Day case procedure may need crutches for 6 weeks No twisting activities for 3 months |
ACL reconstruction
Day case procedure (sometimes overnight stay) 6 weeks before driving 3 months before heavy work 6 months before return to twisting sports 18 months before full recovery |