Proper preparation before surgery gives you the best chance of recovery. Preparing for joint replacement surgery involves getting your body in the best possible shape. You can do this by quitting smoking, avoiding alcohol, exercising and adjusting your medications. Establishing a home recovery routine beforehand will facilitate the healing process post-surgery.
Are you preparing for knee replacement surgery? Maybe you’re wondering how to prepare for hip surgery. Whatever the case, there are a few ways to set yourself up for success.
Joint replacement, or arthroplasty, is a procedure that replaces part or all of a joint. A surgeon replaces the damaged joint with a prosthetic.
The most common replacements are hips and knees. However, replacement surgeries also happen on the shoulder, elbow, wrist and ankle joints.
Joint replacement surgery is a complex procedure, but here is a summary of what you can expect:
Today, surgeons use robotics for precise implant placement and bone reshaping.
Having a healthy body helps with the surgery and recovery. The healthier our bodies are, the more efficiently they heal. Here are some tips to stay in top shape before joint replacement surgery:
The adverse effects of nicotine on the human body are well-documented. Smoking and nicotine hinder blood flow and healing, increasing the risk of surgical complications. If you need help quitting, speak to your surgeon or health care provider.
Excess weight can strain replaced joints, particularly the hips and knees. Your doctor may recommend reaching a certain weight before surgery. Consult with your primary care provider or enlist family and friends to help you achieve your goal.
Certain medications can interfere with surgery, including:
You must stop taking these at least seven days before surgery. Make sure you tell your surgeon about any medications and supplements you’re taking. They will tell you which ones are safe and which ones to stop a few days or weeks before surgery.
Your surgeon might prescribe you medication or supplements leading up to the procedure. Take these as recommended.
Believe it or not, teeth and gum health can impact the results of your procedure. Dental disease can lead to infection after surgery. Schedule an examination with your dentist. If you need dental surgery, arrange this well before your joint implant and let your surgeon know.
Your surgeon may recommend exercises to strengthen muscles around the joint. Improving muscle health helps with the healing process.
Your home is your sanctuary of healing after surgery. Preparing for hip replacement (or any other joint replacement) means preparing your surroundings.
Make arrangements with a friend or family member to support you as you recover. You may need help with cooking, running errands or looking after the kids.
After a joint replacement, you’ll be less mobile for a while. Adjusting your sleeping arrangements can make things easier:
You may need specific items to help you move around as you recover, such as:
Moving furniture or arranging items to be within reach will help your recovery:
Buy what you need ahead of time to reduce the need to go to the store. Stock up on toiletries, canned food, medications and frozen ready meals. Ask someone to assist you or use a delivery service for any perishable goods.
If you’re considering surgery, you may have some questions about joint replacements. It helps to write these down and ask your surgeon to put your mind at ease. Here are some answers to common questions:
Any surgical procedure carries risks like blood clots, infection or nerve damage. Orthopedic surgeons work hard to minimize those risks. Following instructions and taking prescribed medications reduces the chance of complications.
Recovery after hip or knee surgery can take three to six months. Recovery time varies depending on your existing health and adherence to aftercare instructions. It’s essential to do the exercises your surgeon or physiotherapist gives you.
Before hip, knee or any other joint replacement surgery, do not:
Fondren Orthopedic Group is one of Houston’s largest private orthopedic surgery associations. Our fellowship-trained specialists perform over 4,000 joint replacement surgeries a year. At Fondren, you’re assured of patient-centered care every step of the way. We use a combination of surgical skills and advanced technology to get you back on your feet.
Learn more about our specialization in joint replacements, or contact us to schedule a consultation.
We’re excited to announce our new Fondren Orthopedic Group location in Memorial! Welcome Dr. Catherine Cahill, now accepting new patients at this location.