Key Takeaways
Anesthesia options for hip replacement surgery include regional block, spinal anesthesia, or general anesthesia, with spinal anesthesia being most common.
Hip replacements can be same-day outpatient procedures, with recovery beginning in the hospital and continuing at home with the help of a home healthcare company.
Two weeks after surgery, patients visit their surgeon for a checkup, which includes removing bandages, assessing progress, and discussing recovery expectations.
By the two-month mark, most patients have significantly recovered from hip replacement surgery and may be cleared for more strenuous activities and returning to work or daily activities.
A follow-up appointment one year post-surgery ensures the hip replacement's success and assesses long-term care and precautions needed for maintaining joint health.
The Day of Surgery
On the day of your hip replacement surgery, you will arrive at the hospital and be taken to the preoperative area. The medical staff will get you into a gown and start an IV. The anesthesiologist will discuss anesthesia options with you, such as regional block, spinal anesthesia or general anesthesia.
The surgeon will also review important information regarding post-surgery expectations, including pain management, mobility and any necessary precautions.
Once you are ready, you will be taken to the operating room. Most hip replacements are performed under spinal anesthesia, which numbs the lower half of your body for about two hours. The surgery typically takes around an hour to an hour and a half.
Post Surgery at the Hospital
After the surgery, you will wake up in the recovery room. Once your spinal anesthesia has worn off and you can move your legs, a physical therapist will help you walk with a walker to ensure you are stable enough to go home. You will be provided with medications and antibiotics to prevent infection before leaving the hospital.
During your hospital stay, the medical team will monitor your pain levels and the physical therapist will work with you to begin some gentle exercises to help regain mobility in your hip. These exercises will also help to prevent blood clots from forming.
In most cases, we perform hip replacements as same-day outpatient procedures. Read more in my comprehensive article about what that is and how it works.
The First Few Days
A home healthcare company will contact you the evening of your surgery and visit your home the next day. They will check your dressing, ensure you are walking safely and provide light exercises. This home care continues for about two weeks, with visits a couple of days per week.
By the two-month visit, most patients have significantly recovered from their hip replacement surgery. At this point, many are no longer using ambulatory devices. Your surgeon will assess your progress and provide further instructions for your recovery.
This may include clearance for more strenuous activities, such as swimming, biking, golf, etc. You will also receive guidance on when you can return to work or other daily activities.
The 2-Week Visit
At the two-week mark, you will visit your surgeon for a checkup. They will remove your bandage, assess your recovery progress and take an X-ray. The doctor will discuss the expectations for the next six weeks of recovery, including any necessary adjustments to your activity level or pain management plan.
They may also recommend specific exercises or physical therapy sessions to help you regain strength and flexibility in your hip.
The 2-Month Visit
By the two-month visit, most patients have significantly recovered from their hip replacement surgery. At this point, many are no longer using ambulatory devices. Your surgeon will assess your progress and provide further instructions for your recovery.
This may include clearance for more strenuous activities, such as swimming, biking, golf, etc. You will also recieve guidance on when you can return to work or other daily activities.
One Year Post Surgery
After your hip replacement, you will typically have a follow-up appointment with your surgeon one year after the surgery date. This visit ensures that your hip replacement has been successful and that you are continuing to progress well.
Your surgeon will evaluate your hip function, pain levels and overall satisfaction with the surgery. They may also discuss any necessary precautions or long-term care to maintain the health of your hip joint.
Hip Replacement Recovery
Hip replacement recovery time varies depending on the individual but most patients can expect to recover within two months. It is essential to follow your surgeon's instructions and attend all follow-up appointments to ensure a successful recovery.
Remember that your recovery journey is unique and it is crucial not to compare your progress to others. With patience and perseverance, you will regain mobility and experience pain relief after your hip replacement surgery.
For more recovery information read my article "Empowering Patients for Successful Hip & Knee Replacement".
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