Total Hip Replacement

Before the operation

Xray of both hips. The right hip has a Total Hip Replacement and the left hip is normal.
Xray of both hips.
The right hip has a Total Hip Replacement and the left hip is normal.

Preadmission Clinic | Preparing for Surgery

Before your operation, you will be seen at the Preadmission clinic to make sure you are fit for the operation and all the necessary tests are performed in preparation for the operation.

During the visit, you will be seen by a

  • doctor
  • nurse
  • anaesthetist (if necessary)

Tests

Tests that may be ordered for you include:

  • blood tests
  • Xrays
    • Hip and Pelvis
    • Chest
  • Urine Test
  • ECG

Preparing Your Skin

Your skin should not have any infections or irritations before surgery. If either is present, contact your orthopaedic surgeon for a program to improve your skin before surgery.

Tip

Carry a list of your medications with you including the name, dosage and how often you take it.

Medications

Our doctors will advise you which medications you should stop or can continue taking before surgery.

Go see your dentist   

Consider getting treatment for significant dental diseases (including tooth extractions and periodontal work) before your hip replacement surgery. Routine cleaning of your teeth should be delayed for several weeks after surgery.

Get some help from your friends and family

Although you will be able to walk with crutches or a walker soon after surgery, you will need some help for several weeks with such tasks as cooking, shopping, bathing, and laundry. If you live alone, your orthopaedic surgeon's office, a social worker, or a discharge planner at the hospital can help you make advance arrangements to have someone assist you at your home. A short stay in an extended-care facility during your recovery after surgery also may be arranged.

Home Planning

The following is a list of home modifications that will make your return home easier during your recovery:

  • Securely fastened safety bars or handrails in your shower or bath
  • Secure handrails along all stairways
  • A stable chair for your early recovery with a firm seat cushion (that allows your knees to remain lower than your hips), a firm back, and two arms
  • A raised toilet seat
  • A stable shower bench or chair for bathing
  • A long-handled sponge and shower hose
  • A dressing stick, a sock aid, and a long-handled shoe horn for putting on and taking off shoes and socks without excessively bending your new hip
  • A reacher that will allow you to grab objects without excessive bending of your hips
  • Firm pillows for your chairs, sofas, and car that enable you to sit with your knees lower than your hips
  • Removal of all loose carpets and electrical cords from the areas where you walk in your home

About the Operation Complications
24 July, 2010