Preparing for a Total Hip Replacement Surgery: What to Expect

Are you planning on having total hip replacement surgery? If that’s the case, having fears and questions about what to expect is natural. This thorough overview aims to give you essential information regarding the surgical preparation procedure, allowing you to feel confident and educated. We will cover everything from pre-operative evaluations to post-operative care.

So, let’s get into the specifics and see what awaits you on your path to a successful total hip replacement surgery.

Pre-Operative Assessments

Your healthcare team will perform pre-operative assessments to verify that you are physically and mentally prepared for total hip replacement surgery. These evaluations may include the following:

1. Medical History Review

Your medical history, including any pre-existing diseases, previous operations, and medications you are presently taking, will be reviewed by your healthcare professional. It is critical to submit correct information to assist your healthcare provider in assessing potential risks or consequences.

2. Physical Examination

Your overall health and hip joint condition will be evaluated through a complete physical examination. This exam may include a range of motion, strength, and stability test in the afflicted hip.

3. Diagnostic Tests

Your healthcare team may order various diagnostic tests to understand your hip joint thoroughly. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), X-rays, and computed tomography (CT) scans are examples of these tests. These imaging techniques serve to determine the extent of the injury as well as surgical planning.

4. Blood Tests

Blood tests are usually performed to examine your blood count, look for infections, and assess your overall health. These tests aid in the identification of any underlying medical issues that may have an impact on the operation or healing process.

Preparing for Surgery

After completing the pre-operative assessments, your healthcare team will provide the information about the steps required to prepare for total hip replacement surgery. What you can expect throughout this time is as follows:

1. Education and Counseling

Before the surgery, it is critical to have education and counseling to thoroughly understand the procedure, potential dangers, and expected outcomes. Your healthcare or medical team will advise you on what to expect during & after surgery, including post-operative rehabilitation and pain management measures.

2. Medication Adjustments

Before the procedure, your healthcare practitioner may advise you to change or discontinue certain drugs. This is especially critical for blood thinners, which can raise the risk of severe bleeding during the treatment. It is critical to follow your healthcare team’s medication adjustment recommendations.

3. Lifestyle Modifications

Your medical provider may advise you to make specific lifestyle changes in preparation for surgery. These can include eating a nutritious diet, getting enough exercise, and stopping smoking if you smoke. These lifestyle modifications can help you improve your general health and increase the success of your operation.

4. Pre-Admission Testing

Pre-admission testing, which may include further blood tests, urine tests, and electrocardiograms (ECGs), will be performed shortly before the surgery. These various tests are performed to ensure that your body is in good enough condition for surgery.

The Day of Surgery

It’s common to have mixed emotions on the day of your total hip replacement surgery, including excitement and fear. Here’s a rundown of what to expect:

1. Arrival and Admission

You’ll undergo the admissions process at the hospital or surgical center. You will be guided through the paperwork by the nursing staff, and you may be forced to change into a hospital gown.

2. Pre-Operative Preparations

Before the procedure, you will be transported to the pre-operative area to meet with the anesthesiologist and the surgical team. They will review your anesthesia options with you & answer any last-minute questions you might have.

3. Anesthesia Administration

The anesthesia will be provided once you have been fully prepped for the surgery. The type of anesthesia used for total hip replacement surgery can range from general anesthesia, in which you will be sleeping during the process, to regional anesthesia, in which only the lower part of your body will be numbed. The anesthesiologist will explain the best solution based on your medical condition and desires.

4. Surgical Procedure

The surgical team will place you on the operating table and start the surgery. The damaged elements of your hip joint will be removed and replaced with artificial components during total hip replacement surgery. The doctors will make a cut in the skin to access the hip joint, remove the damaged bone and cartilage, and implant the prosthetic components to restore function and relieve pain.

5. Post-Surgical Recovery

Following the surgery, you will be brought to the recovery area. There, the nursing team will supervise you as you awaken from anesthesia. Pain management measures like medicines and cold packs will be employed to ensure your comfort. Physical therapists can also help you with moderate motions and exercises to improve blood circulation and avoid issues.

Post-Operative Care and Rehabilitation

Following total hip replacement surgery, a detailed post-operative care and rehabilitation plan is required. Here’s what you can expect during this time:

1. Hospital Stay

Several factors, including your overall health and rehabilitation progress, will determine the length of your hospital stay. After undergoing surgery, patients stay at the hospital for a few days. During this period, your healthcare team will continuously monitor your status, give medications, and support you with everyday activities.

2. Pain Management

Pain management is a critical component of post-operative treatment. Your healthcare team will give you pain medicine to help you feel better. They may also use treatments such as cold therapy and elevation to relieve swelling and pain in the surgery area.

3. Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is critical in regaining hip joint strength, mobility, and flexibility. A physical therapist will collaborate with you to create a customized recovery plan. This plan may include exercises, stretches, and gait training to gradually help you regain mobility and independence.

4. Assistive Devices

During recovery, you may need assistive devices such as crutches, walkers, or canes to help with mobility and stability. Your healthcare team will instruct you on using these devices safely and effectively.

5. Follow-Up Appointments

Following your hospital release, you will have follow-up appointments with your surgeon. These sessions are critical for tracking your progress, assessing the success of the surgery, and dealing with any issues or complications that may occur.

Final Words

At Curebridge, we take pride in providing outstanding services and housing highly qualified medical professionals. Our devoted team ensures you get the best care possible throughout your surgical journey. Visit Curebridge today to learn more about our first-rate services or to schedule a consultation for total hip replacement.