Instructions for Knee Epiphyseodesis Surgery Patients

These instructions are intended to provide information regarding knee epiphyseodesis surgery and the postoperative care. They address questions most frequently asked by the parents of children who are having this surgery.

Discharge Instructions

• Use the knee immobilizer until you are comfortable, approximately one-week.
• You may remove the immobilizer as needed for showering, changing clothes and comfort.
• Use your crutches until you are comfortable:
  You may be partial weight bearing immediately.
  You may be full weight bearing when comfortable.
• You will receive a prescription for pain medication after the operation. Use this as needed. If you are able to take Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), you can use this in between doses of the narcotic pain medicine. You should be able to switch to just Ibuprofen and/or Tylenol in 48 - 72 hours.
• You will need to make an appointment to see your physician in about 2 to 6 weeks after surgery. At that time the physician will decide if physical therapy is needed.
• Do not participate in gym or sports for at least 6 weeks after the operation. School notes are available at the office.
  

Please call us if you have any questions or concerns.

Division of Pediatric Orthopaedics
Morgan Stanley Children's Hospital of New York
3959 Broadway, 8th Floor
New York City 10032
phone 212-305-5475
fax 212-305-8271