For all orthopedic surgeries, it is important to keep good lines of communication with your doctor, so you know what is happening. The procedure could be the best treatment for you to continue a happy and productive lifestyle. However, knowing what should happen before and after is key to a successful outcome. Education is the best first step to a successful hip replacement surgery.Before all orthopedic surgeries, it is important to have clearance by your primary care physician. To be certain no issues could prevent a successful operation, a thorough set of tests and evaluations will be performed. Your primary doctor can also provide you with necessary medical records and operating notes from prior surgeries that could help the surgeon. It is wise to make an appointment with someone from the surgical office to help you understand all of the benefits and risks, as well as what you will be expected to do after to help with a speedy recovery. Also, be sure to verify that everything will be covered by your insurance company.Some orthopedic surgeries require that you give blood donations prior to the operation, in case it is needed. Your surgeon's office will provide that information, along with a list of medications that you should begin taking or stop taking in order to prepare your body. It is important to give the doctor a complete list of what you are taking, including prescription medications, over the counter options, and vitamins or supplements. All medical professionals involved need as much information as they can get in order to make the best decisions to help you.Adjustments to make the home a better environment for recovery is also important before orthopedic surgeries. Trip hazards should be dealt with, such as area rugs and electrical cords. Extra furniture should be moved to make room for walking aids. Handrails can be installed in the bathroom and near steps. And all personal items should be placed within easy reach from the bed or chair.
Depending on the type of hip replacement surgery, the doctor will use local or general anesthesia. Sometimes metal, plastic, or ceramic parts are inserted into the thigh bone, replacing the natural ball that creates the pivoting joint there. Often, the hip socket in the pelvic bone is resurfaced, to make it smooth again. Cartilage damage can also be repaired with joint material.Directly after orthopedic surgeries, you can expect to stay in the hospital until the doctor feels you are ready to leave, which could be a few days, or up to a week. An IV will be used in the beginning, and nausea or constipation is common. Due to being bedridden, a catheter will likely be used, along with a compression pump to help with circulation. After a day or so, you should be able to get out of bed with help. A physical therapist will begin teaching you how to walk and move again. You will learn what types of movements to do, as well as what types to avoid.Once discharged from the hospital, common sense dictates that a friend or family member be available to take you home. Someone will need to be with you for a while, due to limited mobility and medications. Watch your wound site for redness or drainage and monitor your temperature, to be sure there is no infection. You will likely need help performing basic daily tasks for a period of time. Your physical therapy will continue and pushing yourself to regain flexibility, endurance, and strength is encouraged. Because of a better working joint, most patients experience an improved quality of life.Remember to check with your doctor before starting any treatment or medical remedy.
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