Patients have questions when considering total joint replacement surgery.
For patients considering total joint replacement surgery, there are many questions about all stages of treatment, pre, during and post-surgery. We answer the top ten most frequently asked questions for patients here:
- What tests are needed before surgery?
Patients will be required to have routine blood work and urinalysis before surgery, as well as a physical examination completed by the surgeon. If older than 50 and have a cardiac or respiratory history, an EKG and chest X-ray will be done prior to surgery. Most pre-admission testing can be performed at the hospital where the procedure will be performed.
- How early do you have to arrive at the hospital prior to surgery?
Patients should arrive at least two hours before surgery to go through admissions, change into hospital clothing, meet the anesthesiologist and nursing personnel, and address any questions about the procedure. It’s important to no eat or drink after midnight on the day of surgery unless otherwise instructed.
- What items should be brought to the hospital?
- Personal toiletries and shaving gear
- Comfortable and loose-fitting clothing
- Slip-on shoes or slippers with closed backs
- A list of current medications, including dosages
- Any paperwork the hospital has requested
- If patients use a walker, they should ask someone to bring it at discharge so a physical therapist can review it for stability
- Do not bring: radios, televisions, large amounts of cash or credit cards, or other valuable items
- How long will the surgery take?
Surgery typically takes anywhere from one to three hours, with an additional one to one-and-a-half hours in the recovery room. Everyone’s case, however, is different, and every patient should discuss this with their doctor.
- Will the operation be painful?
Many patients only experience some discomfort in the days and weeks following joint replacement; however, after years of living with joint pain, most find it is a welcome relief. As with any surgery, individual patient results and experiences vary. Patients need to talk with their doctor before surgery about pain management options.
- When can patients engage in sporting activities?
Swimming, distance walking, hiking, bicycle riding, golfing and other low impact sporting activities after a few weeks of rehabilitation and recovery are options for most patients. Patients will need to discuss activity level and abilities with their doctor.
- When can patients have sexual intercourse after surgery?
In most cases, sexual activity can be resumed when patients feel comfortable enough to do so. In general, most patients resume normal sexual activities within four to six weeks after surgery.
- Will a patient need someone to stay full-time with them when they go home?
It is best for someone to be with the recovering patient for the first 24 to 72 hours after discharge. Home care can also be arranged through your case manager.
- When are patients ok to drive?
Most patients must wait for six weeks before driving. However, some physicians may allow the patients to drive earlier if they feel the patients can do so safely. The type of surgery, side of surgery (left leg vs. right leg) and the patient’s overall general condition will play a part in that decision.
- When can patients go up and down stairs?
Many patients can climb stairs before leaving the hospital.
Each patient should follow any steps recommended by their surgeon as they work toward a goal of an improved lifestyle with their new joint.