QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT TOTAL HIP REPLACEMENT

When do I go in the hospital?

The day of surgery, early in the morning, as specified by the hospital.

When will they draw my blood tests?

Probably the day before.

Will I have to have a blood transfusion?

Possibly, but we will try to arrange to have you donate your own blood, a little at a time, in the weeks before the surgery.

How long will I stay in the hospital?

About five days...then, we can move you to the rehabilitation hospital to give you further practice in walking.

When do I start walking?

The day after the surgery.

Will I have a lot of tubes in me?

There will be an IV, a bladder catheter and possibly a drain, but they will all be removed approximately 2 days after surgery.

How long does it take the doctor to do the surgery?

About 2 to 3 hours.

Does it hurt a lot?

The pain is very well controlled by an epidural or by pain medicine in your IV for the first two days, and then the pain is much less.

Can a family member stay with me after surgery?

Yes.

What can't I do when I get home?

You need to be careful not to cross your legs and not to sit in low chairs. Try to always sit in a chair with arms. Do not squat and do not stretch to tie your shoes.

Do I have to have antibiotics after surgery?

You will receive antibiotics for 2 days in the hospital. After you are home, you need to have antibiotics before any dental work or urology surgery. Be sure to tell the doctor or dentist that you have had a total hip replacement.

Does Mid State Orthopaedics participate in Medicare?

Yes.


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