In the operation theatre, you will be transferred from the trolley onto the
operating table while you are asleep. A rubber catheter is inserted into the
bladder at this stage and then a tourniquet will be placed around the top of
the thigh on the leg to be operated upon. The tourniquet is like a large blood
pressure cuff which is inflated to a pressure higher than your blood pressure
during the surgery. This stops the blood from flowing into the leg and makes
it easier to carry out the operation and sometimes reduces blood loss. In patients
with problems with circulation in the legs, the tourniquet may not be used.
The leg is then cleaned with antiseptic and sterile drapes placed around the
knee. The surgery is then carried out by the surgeon and one or two assistants.
A scrub nurse who handles all the required instruments for the operation is
also an essential member of the team. In addition, a circulating nurse is present
in theatre to help. Other people who may be present on occasion in Mr. Trakru's
theatre include, trainee nurses, medical and physiotherapy students and visiting
surgeons.
The operation takes about 2 hours to perform. When it is finished, the tourniquet
is deflated and a bulky dressing is applied to the wound. The leg is bandaged
from the toes to the thigh. You will then be taken into the Recovery area.
For details of the operation click here.