How do I prepare for my Hip Replacement Surgery?

Your doctor has advised that a great solution to your long-term hip pain or disease is to undergo a hip replacement. After working with your doctor to agree on a date for your surgery, you might wonder if there are any steps to take to prepare you for the surgery. The answer is here.

The first and most important way to prepare for your surgery is to listen to your doctor. Yes, you read that right - listen to your doctor’s instructions. All patients are different from one another.

While most of the preparation guides online are not incorrect, your doctor is better positioned to give you more personal and specific instructions on how to prepare for your surgery. These instructions would be based on personal data and information drawn from your medical history, present medications, test and examination results, and some demographic factors.

Generally, the following are ways to prepare for your hip arthroplasty include:

1. Blood Tests and X-rays: As a pre-operative check you will require these tests. The blood test will help to understand the present state of your health and help the surgical team to prepare well for the procedure and also for the likely complications. The X-ray will help to know the extent of the damage done to the hip and the exact type of arthroplasty to be done and the right technique to be utilized. Your doctor might request an MRI but this is in rare cases.

2. Stop Smoking: Tobacco products are known to impede healing. After your surgery, your body will need to undergo a healing process and you want your body to be primed for this process. That is why it is essential to stop smoking cigarettes or intake other tobacco products before your surgery. If you have trouble trying to quit using these products, please, talk to your doctor about it.

3. Discuss Present Medications with your Doctor: Some drugs affect the success of the surgery. For example, your current blood thinners (drugs that make it harder for the blood to clot) might need to be changed temporarily for the surgery. Some drugs also suppress your immunity. They make it easier for you to get infections. It is important to discuss all your medications with your doctors.

4. Discuss all Medical Conditions with your Doctor: If you have any medical conditions like diabetes and heart disease, tell your doctor about them to allow them to take all necessary precautions.

5. Visit a Physiotherapist: After your surgery, a physiotherapist will prescribe some exercises and walking aids like crutches, canes, and walkers. These exercises are easier to learn before the surgery. You should see a physical therapist before the surgery to enable you to practice the exercises and walk with different mobility aids. You can incorporate specific movements such as getting in and out of the shower, moving up and down the stairs, and using the toilet.

6. Prepare your home and your family: Moving around your home shortly after your surgery might get very limited. It is necessary to prepare your home for easy mobility and accessibility. You should also inform a couple of friends or relatives who will be able to provide some emotional and physical support after your surgery.

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