Hip replacement surgery is a major procedure that requires a lot of planning and preparation on your part. Recovery from the procedure can take weeks, so it is best to think about how you can prepare for a smooth recovery time. Once you schedule a hip replacement surgery, you might have fears or questions. You might wonder what to expect and how best to prepare for the procedure and recovery. When you understand how to prepare for surgery and what to expect during recovery, you’ll have one less thing to worry about, and with the right orthopedic surgeon, you’ll have little to worry about in general.
Here are some tips on how to prepare for hip replacement surgery.
Get Your House Cleaned
After surgery, the last thing you will want or be able to do is clean. Generally, it takes about two months for your hip replacement to heal. While you’re usually able to walk after your procedure, you might not be able to perform all the every-day tasks you used to do until your hip heals. Therefore, clean your house before the procedure and arrange for a loved one or professional service to clean your house while your recover after the procedure.
Ask Your Orthopedic Surgeon Questions
If at any point you have a question, you should contact your All-Star Orthopedics surgeon as soon as possible. Having the best outcomes from your surgery requires you to take steps before and after surgery, which means you need to have open and frequent conversations with your surgeon to ensure you take care of yourself the right way.
Get All the Necessary Testing
Your orthopedic doctor won’t be able to perform the surgery unless you receive all the necessary testing before the surgery. These tests help the surgeon identify any problems that could interfere with the procedure.
You’ll need to have an electrocardiogram (ECG) and blood tests, for example. During the ECG, your heart rate is monitored and the practitioner looks for any arrhythmias that could interfere with the safety of the surgery.
The blood test assesses your mineral levels, which play a role in your heart rhythm. The practitioner will also look at your complete blood cell count (CBC) to assess for infection or anemia, both of which could affect your safety during the surgery.
A chest X-ray is also often performed to evaluate shortness of breath and abnormal respiration.
Stop Tobacco Use
You’ll want to avoid tobacco usage starting one month before your surgery. Tobacco products can interfere with the healing process. You should also be prepared to quit for at least two months after your surgery.
Tobacco affects immune function, which can increase your risk of infection. Its effect on the immune system can also delay healing. Moreover, it impacts nutrient delivery, which affects your healing since you need certain nutrients to heal.
Stop Taking Certain Medications Before Your Surgery
You’ll need to stop taking certain medications within the last few weeks or days before your surgery. For instance, blood thinners can cause an increase in bleeding during your surgery. Your surgeon will explain which medications to stop taking.
Find a Ride To and From Surgery
You’ll need to find a ride to and from surgery. Depending on your surgery and the results, you may be able to go home the same day. However, some patients need to stay in the hospital for one to two nights for monitoring. Regardless, driving following your surgery will be impossible for at least a few weeks. Therefore, make ride arrangements ahead of time.
Make Your Home Post-Op Friendly
There are several things you should do to prepare your home for post-op recovery. You may want to have a raised toilet installed, for example. Move items you use regularly to places you can get to without reaching or bending too much. Frequently used items like a tablet, phone, books, or tissues should be moved near where you’ll spend most of your time after surgery. You may also want to see if a family member or friend could cook meals for you the first few days after your surgery.
Hip Replacement Surgery in Austin, TX
At All-Star Orthopedics of Austin, we are experts when it comes to hip replacement. All the necessary steps are taken to reduce future problems. Our surgeon will make you feel comfortable about your procedure through patient education and a willingness to listen to any concerns you may have.
Schedule an appointment with All-Star Orthopedics of Austin, serving Austin and the surrounding Texas region, today to discuss if hip replacement surgery is right for you. Call us at 512-346-4933 or use our convenient online scheduling tool.
