Flying After Knee Surgery

The decision to fly after knee surgery is one that should be made with careful consideration. This is dependent on multiple factors, including the type of surgery, the individual's overall health, and the duration of the flight. However, the primary determinant is the recovery timeline post-surgery and the progression of mobility.

Recovery Timeline After Knee Surgery

The recovery time after knee surgery varies between individuals and depends on the type of surgery performed. However, a general timeline can be outlined for total knee replacement surgery, one of the most common types of knee surgeries.

According to Healthline, many people can walk without an assistive device after three weeks and drive after four to six weeks following total knee replacement surgery. By the end of week six post-surgery, patients can probably walk further, do more everyday tasks like cooking and cleaning, and may no longer require a cane or assistive device to get around. It usually takes around a year to recover fully after a knee replacement, but most individuals can resume most of their usual activities six weeks after the surgery [1].

Weeks Post-Surgery Recovery Milestones
3 Can walk without assistive device
4-6 Can drive
6 Can do everyday tasks, may not need a cane
12 Can enjoy activities like gardening and swimming
52 (1 Year) Full recovery

Mobility Progression Post-Surgery

The progression of mobility post-knee surgery is a crucial factor in deciding how soon one can fly after the procedure. Most people progress to using a cane or nothing at all by two to three weeks after knee replacement surgery. By week three, many have moved on from using a walker and can get around with a cane or without assistance.

After a knee replacement, most people are able to walk with a cane or a walker a few days after surgery, but may require assistance with everyday activities for a while. Physical therapy can often begin the day after knee replacement surgery, emphasizing the importance of postoperative pain relief to enable patients to be active and effectively participate in their recovery.

This gradual progression of mobility is an important aspect to consider when contemplating how soon can you fly after knee surgery. It is essential to consult with your healthcare provider to discuss your specific situation and receive personalized advice.

Return to Normal Activities

After undergoing knee surgery, a common question that arises is "how soon can you fly after knee surgery?" However, it's equally important to understand the timeline for resuming everyday activities and enjoying recreational activities.

Resuming Everyday Tasks

Following total knee replacement surgery, the recovery timeline may vary from person to person. However, many individuals can start walking without an assistive device as early as three weeks post-surgery, and they may begin driving after 4–6 weeks [2].

Post-Surgery Weeks Progress
Week 2–3 Most people progress to using a cane or nothing at all
Week 3 Many people have moved on from using a walker and can get around with a cane or without assistance
End of Week 6 Patients can probably walk further, do more everyday tasks, like cooking and cleaning, and may no longer require a cane or assistive device to get around

Information courtesy Healthline

Enjoying Recreational Activities

The ability to resume recreational activities often serves as a benchmark for recovery after knee surgery. By week 12 after total knee replacement surgery, many patients are up and about and beginning to engage in activities like gardening and swimming.

The benefits of knee replacement surgery extend beyond just pain relief. Most individuals who undergo this procedure experience a reduced pain, increased ability to move and use their knee, and an overall improved quality of life [1]. In fact, more than 90% of people who undergo knee replacement surgery have improved function in their knee that can last for 10 to 15 years [1].

It's important to remember that recovery from knee surgery is a process that requires time and patience. Physical therapy can often begin the day after knee replacement surgery, emphasizing the importance of postoperative pain relief to enable patients to be active and effectively participate in their recovery.

When considering the question of "how soon can you fly after knee surgery", it's crucial to factor in these timelines for resuming normal activities and enjoying recreational activities. As always, it's important to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice based on your specific circumstances and recovery progress.

Knee Surgery Types

When considering the timeframe for flying after knee surgery, it is important to understand the different types of knee surgeries, as each one will have its own recovery timeline and implications for travel.

Common Knee Surgeries

There are several common types of knee surgeries, ranging from minimally invasive arthroscopic procedures to major surgeries like knee replacements. Often, the type of knee surgery a person undergoes is determined by the nature of their knee problem and their overall health.

According to JOI Online, the most common types of knee surgeries include:

  • Total and partial knee replacements
  • Meniscus surgery, including Meniscectomy Surgery, Knee Meniscus Repair Surgery, and Knee Meniscus Transplant Surgery
  • Other arthroscopic procedures like Plica Removal From the Knee, Lateral Release Knee Surgery, and Microfracture Knee Surgery
  • ACL Reconstruction knee Surgery
  • Patellar Tendon Repair

The most common cause for knee surgery is arthritis, including Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis, which break down the surfaces and structures of the knee joint, causing pain, swelling, and dysfunction for many patients.

Surgical Procedures and Recovery

The surgical procedure and recovery time for each type of knee surgery can vary. For instance, total and partial knee replacements are among the most complex types of knee surgery. These procedures involve replacing damaged parts of the knee with artificial components. In some cases, a robotic-assisted device is used to improve accuracy and allow for pre-planning based on the patient's individual knee anatomy.

On the other hand, meniscus surgery, which includes procedures such as Meniscectomy Surgery, Knee Meniscus Repair Surgery, and Knee Meniscus Transplant Surgery, is performed via arthroscopy. This minimally invasive technique involves small incisions and a camera to guide the surgeon, resulting in less damage to surrounding tissues and potentially a faster recovery time.

Other arthroscopic procedures like Plica Removal From the Knee, Lateral Release Knee Surgery, and Microfracture Knee Surgery, each address specific knee issues such as plica irritation, patellar tracking, and small cartilage damage inside the joint.

ACL Reconstruction knee Surgery is common for athletes and individuals experiencing instability due to a torn anterior cruciate ligament. Similarly, Patellar Tendon Repair is a common procedure, usually performed as an open procedure with a scar along the front of the knee.

Understanding the type of knee surgery and the typical recovery process for each can help individuals plan their return to activities, including travel, and answer the question of 'how soon can you fly after knee surgery'.

Traveling After Knee Surgery

Making travel plans after knee surgery requires careful consideration. Understanding how soon you can fly after knee surgery, the associated risks, and necessary precautions can help ensure a safe and comfortable journey.

Factors to Consider Before Flying

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) suggests allowing 1 to 2 days before flying after minor surgery and at least 2 to 10 days after an operation involving the abdomen or chest. However, those flying after recent hip or knee surgery are at an increased risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot in the deep veins, typically in the legs.

If there is a high risk of DVT, individuals should consult their GP before flying, who may seek advice from their surgeon or recommend delaying the trip. Factors that could increase the risk of DVT post-surgery include sitting still for a long time, dehydration, being overweight, and having a history of DVT.

Checking the travel insurance policy thoroughly is also essential, as informing the company about recent surgery may impact the cost of travel insurance.

Precautions for Air Travel

Traveling after knee surgery requires certain precautions to reduce the risk of complications. Here are some measures to consider:

  • Hydration: Stay hydrated before and during the flight. Water helps thin the blood, reducing the risk of blood clots.
  • Mobility: Try to move around as much as possible during the flight. If movement is restricted, do some simple exercises in your seat to promote blood flow.
  • Compression Stockings: Wear compression stockings during the flight. These apply pressure to your lower legs, helping to maintain blood flow and reduce discomfort and swelling.
  • Medication: If you have a high risk of DVT, your healthcare provider may recommend blood-thinning medication to decrease the chance of developing blood clots.
Before making any travel plans, it's crucial to consult your healthcare provider to understand the potential risks and necessary precautions for flying after knee surgery. They can provide personalized advice based on your current health status and recovery progress.

Safety Guidelines for Flying

When contemplating air travel after knee surgery, understanding the safety guidelines is crucial. It's important to be aware of the associated risks and heed the recommendations from medical professionals.

Risks of Flying After Surgery

Flying after knee surgery can pose certain risks. Of particular concern is Venous Thromboembolism (VTE), a condition characterized by blood clots forming in the veins. Due to prolonged immobility during flights, especially long-haul ones, the risk of developing VTE can increase. According to a study cited by PubMed Central, the advised time to avoid flying after hip or knee arthroplasty varies widely from 14 to 180 days for patients with no risk factors for VTE, and from 14 to 180 days for patients with one or more risk factors for VTE.

Risk Factor for VTE Advised Time to Avoid Flying
No Risk Factors 14 to 180 days
One or More Risk Factors 14 to 180 days

Recommendations from Medical Professionals

Despite the risks, there is no clear consensus among orthopedic surgeons as to when patients should be allowed to fly after knee arthroplasty surgery. The advice given varies widely and is neither standardized nor evidence-based. Guidelines from the National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommend that patients avoid long-haul flights for three months after surgery, and short-haul flights may be possible after six weeks. However, these recommendations are based on level five evidence, indicating a lack of strong evidence to support any recommendations for air travel following arthroplasty.

Furthermore, airlines and insurance providers have varying policies regarding air travel after knee surgery. Among the surveyed airlines, five would not allow passengers to fly following knee arthroplasty, and seven airlines required certification from a doctor. On the other hand, seven insurance providers had restrictions on providing cover to passengers after knee arthroplasty, and four had time restrictions on when insurance coverage could be provided, ranging from six weeks to two years.

Given the varied guidelines and potential risks, it's crucial for individuals planning to fly after knee surgery to consult with their healthcare provider for personalized advice. This can help ensure a safe and comfortable journey, allowing for a continued focus on recovery and rehabilitation.

Air Travel Considerations

When considering how soon one can fly after knee surgery, it's essential to prepare for the journey and understand the special needs of orthopedic patients during air travel.

Preparing for Comfortable Travel

Flying after recent surgery, especially on the hips or knees, may put individuals at a higher risk of Deep Venous Thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot in the deep veins, typically in the legs [4]. Factors that could increase the risk of DVT post-surgery include sitting still for a long time, dehydration, being overweight, and having a history of DVT [5].

If there is a high risk of DVT, individuals should consult their GP before flying, who may seek advice from their surgeon or recommend delaying the trip. Measures to reduce the risk of DVT include staying hydrated and moving around during the flight.

Pre-flight preparation should also include considering the seating arrangement on the plane. After surgery or a broken bone, one may have restrictions on where to sit on a plane and may have issues tolerating turbulence during the flight [5].

Special Needs for Orthopedic Patients

Orthopedic patients, especially those who have recently undergone knee surgery, may have special considerations and needs for air travel.

Firstly, they may need additional legroom to accommodate any braces, casts, or supports. It's advisable to contact the airline in advance to discuss any special seating requirements or to request assistance during boarding or disembarking.

Secondly, they may need to carry specific medications or medical equipment, such as crutches or wheelchairs. Again, communication with the airline ahead of time can help ensure that these items can be accommodated.

Lastly, it's important to remember that recovering from knee surgery can be a tiring process, and the stress and activity of travel may exacerbate this. Patients should ensure they're well-rested before the journey and consider adjusting their itinerary to include plenty of rest periods.

By effectively preparing and understanding the unique needs of orthopedic patients, it's possible to plan a comfortable and safe journey by air after knee surgery.

References

[1]: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/8512-knee-replacement

‍[2]: https://www.healthline.com/health/total-knee-replacement-surgery/rehabilitation-timeline

‍[3]: https://www.asahq.org/madeforthismoment/preparing-for-surgery/procedures/knee-surgery/

‍[4]: https://www.nhs.uk/common-health-questions/accidents-first-aid-and-treatments/when-can-i-fly-after-surgery/

‍[5]: https://jmclean.com.au/your-visit/after-surgery/flying-after-surgery/

‍[6]: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10508977/