Introduction
A hip replacement is major surgery, so you should prepare before improving your chances of a favourable outcome and less hip pain. Your orthopaedic surgeon’s goal is to make sure your operation goes smoothly. The best thing you can do is adequately prepare for your procedure and engage in good “prehabilitation” to achieve the best possible recovery after surgery.
What Is Hip Replacement Surgery?
This is a surgery where your hip or part of it is replaced with an artificial implant. Some of the significant reasons you might a hip replacement include:
- An injury that didn’t heal right
- Childhood hip disorders
- Neoplasms
- Development of hip dysplasiaÂ
- Inflammatory arthritis
- Hip dislocation or fracture from injuries.
- Loss of motion
- Tightness of the hip
Top 9 Things To have Gone Through Before Undergoing Hip Replacement.
- Find out more about the procedure.
To begin, familiarize yourself with the fundamentals of the treatment you will undergo so that you are confident in your surgeon’s intentions and feel fully informed. Use resources like the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons and the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons to educate yourself. Any advance knowledge you may gain before going under will help you relax and decrease any concerns you may have about your procedure.
- Go for medical evaluation.
Your primary care physician will examine you before your hip replacement to ensure healthy enough for surgery. Blood tests and chest X-rays may be used in this evaluation and ensure that chronic problems like asthma or high blood pressure are under control. Your doctor will use this information to determine whether you are at a high risk of surgery complications.
It’s important to remember that certain medications, including herbal supplements, might raise the risk of bleeding and other severe consequences during surgery. As a result, make sure your doctor and orthopaedic surgeon are both aware of any pills, vitamins, or herbal treatments you’re using. Before your operation, you may be told to stop taking them.
- Transfusion of blood
A hip replacement is an effective procedure, and there’s a risk you’ll need a blood transfusion during or after the procedure. “Your blood is safer for you than anyone else’s if you need a blood transfusion. However, three to four weeks before surgery, you can begin giving your blood. Before your procedure, check with your hospital to see their policy on how long your blood can be securely held.
Patients will have an extra reserve of blood volume while getting a hip replacement in India in this manner.
- Make an appointment with a physical therapist.
You will undertake rigorous post-surgical physical therapy in the weeks and months following your hip replacement to acclimatize both your body and your new hip to one another and your formerly daily responsibilities. Make an appointment with your physical therapist before your operation to know what to expect from your PT program.
- Look for a driver.
After surgery, you won’t be able to drive for a few weeks, depending on how long you take your pain relievers and when your full strength and reflexes return. In the meanwhile, arrange for a friend or family member to drive you.
Request a temporary tag for disabled parking places from your surgeon’s office.
- Give up smoking.
Nicotine use alters blood flow, slowing recovery and increasing the risk of problems. Your surgeon or primary care physician may be able to provide you with smoking cessation advice or refer you to a medical specialist who can assist you in quitting.
- Test out the equipment you’ll need for recovery.
After a hip replacement surgery, your doctor will advise that you remain confined to crutches for some time. As a result, it’s a good idea to practice a little before you need to rely on them for your mobility. You might also find that you need some limited mobility aids. To be completely prepared, do your research and place your order ahead of time. Reachers and shoe assistance tools are two examples of possible solutions.
- Make Your House a Recovery-Friendly Environment
Before your surgery, it is advisable to rearrange any challenging locations in your home so that you can recuperate peacefully and without any logistical issues. Install handrails, relocate high-up items to a lower level, and ensure that your sleeping area and bathroom of choice are both easily accessible.
- Consider sleeping options on the first floor.
If you regularly sleep upstairs, you might want to consider sleeping on the first level for the first week or two to avoid traversing the stairs. Occasionally, insurance will cover the cost of temporarily placing a hospital bed on the first floor.
While some people prefer or require first-floor sleeping quarters, it is not always necessary. Seek counsel from your surgeon or surgical staff.
It’s also natural to be nervous as your hip replacement surgery date approaches. Keep in mind that the great majority of hip replacement surgery occur without a hitch.
