Of course, zigzag stitches can also be used for ornamental work, appliques and visible edging on sleeves and such. Of course, one serious long-term complication is that the implant itself will deteriorate with time, especially if its bearer is physically active. One drawback of general anesthesia is that it takes longer for the patient to fully return to his or her senses, which adds time between the end of the procedure and the start of simple physical therapy techniques needed to help the leg heal. Most total knee replacements require the patient to remain under hospital care from three days to a week, but this may be adjusted depending on individual rates of recovery. Care must be taken not to melt the pick itself or to accidentally attach it to the item being worked on. If you have hip troubles that may require a hip replacement, you'll want to get your hip taken care of before your knee. After it's been determined the damage to your knee necessitates a replacement, you'll receive a physical checkup and blood analysis, as well as X-rays that will pinpoint the damaged areas.