Hip and Knee Replacement: From Consultation to Recovery

Key Takeaways:

• The consultation process includes discussing risks, benefits and expectations for hip or knee replacement surgery.

• Preoperative preparations involve medical testing, a CT scan and attending a pre-operative joint replacement class.

• The day of surgery includes preoperative preparations, anesthesia discussions and a final review of postoperative expectations.

• Recovery involves multiple stages, from the initial post-surgery recovery room stay to home healthcare visits and formal therapy programs.

• By the two-month mark, most patients are well recovered and ready to resume their normal activities.

The Hip and Knee Replacement Process

Undergoing hip or knee replacement can be a life-changing decision. To help you better understand the process, we will walk you through the entire journey from consultation to recovery while providing insights into what you can expect at each step.

The Consultation and Decision-Making Process

As a doctor, my primary goal is to ensure that you have a clear understanding of the risks and benefits associated with hip or knee replacement surgery. During our consultation, we will discuss:

• Satisfaction rates for each surgery

• Common and worrisome complications

• Expectations regarding pain and recovery

Once you decide to move forward with the surgery, my scheduler will assist you in setting up dates and arranging for medical testing to ensure your readiness for the procedure.

Preoperative Preparations

Prior to your surgery, you will undergo several preparations, including:

• Medical testing to confirm your safety for surgery

• A CT scan for robotic system planning

• Attending a preoperative joint class to learn about the surgery and recovery process

The joint class allows you and your family members to ask questions and understand what to expect in terms of physical therapy, medications and the use of ambulatory devices.

The Day of Surgery

On the day of your surgery, the hospital staff will guide you through the following steps:

• Preoperative preparations, including gowning and IV setup

• Meeting with the anesthesiologist to discuss anesthesia options

• A pre-surgery discussion with me, your surgeon, to review post operative expectations

The surgery itself typically takes about an hour and most patients do not require general anesthesia.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Your recovery journey will include several stages:

1. Short, post-surgery recovery room stay and physical therapy consult prior to discharge.

2. Discharge from the hospital, typically same day, with medications and home healthcare arrangements.

3. Home healthcare visits for dressing checks, walking assessments and light exercises.

4. A two-week postoperative visit to assess progress, remove the bandage and discuss next steps.

5. Participation in a formal therapy program (for knee patients) or self-guided recovery (for hip patients).

By the two-month mark, most patients are well recovered, with knee patients regaining their range of motion and hip patients no longer requiring ambulatory devices.

The journey to hip and knee replacement is comprehensive, from consultation to full recovery. Understanding each step and knowing what to expect can help you feel more confident and prepared as you embark on this life-changing experience.