Whether you just started having pain or have been putting up with the discomfort of knee or hip arthritis with conservative options for years. Deciding to proceed with a total joint replacement as a long-term solution to arthritis is a large endeavor.
Choose a Physician
Firstly, you want to find the best suited surgeon for you. You can ask your primary care physician or family and friends for recommendations. Ultimately, you will want to ensure the surgeon you choose and the facilities they operate at are in network with your insurance provider.
Choosing to move forward with a total joint replacement can return your quality of life with a goal of getting you back to the activities you enjoy. When you are seen by your surgeon for a pre-operative appointment, make sure you have your questions ready to be answered.
In some cases, joint replacement surgeries can be performed as an outpatient surgery. However, you should expect to stay overnight at a hospital after surgery. Make sure your surgeon is aware of any medical conditions or health problems, allergies to medications, or any complications with previous surgeries. Once the decision has been made to proceed with surgery, your surgeon will likely request pre-operative clearance from your primary care physician or any specialists you may see. This is to ensure you are in good health to proceed with the operation.
Smoking Cessation
Secondly, if you are a smoker your surgeon will likely encourage you to quit smoking prior to surgery. For more information on smoking and joint replacements, read this blog.
Choosing to move forward with a total joint replacement can return your quality of life with a goal of getting you back to the activities you enjoy. When you are seen by your surgeon for a pre-operative appointment, make sure you have your questions ready to be answered.
Preparing your Home
Thirdly, you will want to prepare your home for a safe arrival once you have been discharged from the hospital. Remove any throw rugs, fasten down any loose carpet, tape down electrical cords, and remove clutter that could cause tripping. To prevent a slip and fall, place a non-slip mat in the shower and place a non-skid bathmat outside of the shower. Ensure you have a comfortable chair to sit in, with arms, to more easily stand from a seated position.
Physical therapy may be sent to your home prior to surgery to ensure your house is well equipped for you following surgery. After surgery you will initially need a walker for walking assistance and will likely transition to a cane a few weeks later. Make sure you have these items available for you and contact your doctor or the hospital should you have any trouble obtaining assistive devices.
Lastly, remember you are proceeding with a joint replacement as a long-term solution to your arthritis. Just like any surgery, there will be post-operative pain and you may even wonder why you went through with the surgery. In a few months you will be back on your feet and getting back to the activities you enjoy without the constant arthritis pain.
By: Robin Dodd
Sources:
https://medicine.umich.edu/sites/default/files/content/downloads/Hip%20Replacement_LR.pdf
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/knee-replacement/about/pac-20385276
https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/treatment/preparing-for-joint-replacement-surgery/
Related Physicians
The providers at Kansas City Bone and Joint Clinic each have their own areas of specialty. Click on the providers below to read more about them.
