Hip Replacement Surgery
Preparation is a vital component of the hip replacement surgery process. Well-prepared patients will have a higher satisfaction rate and a reduced risk of complications during and after the surgery. During the initial consultation, your surgeon will guide you about the steps involved in pre-op preparation.
Thomas & Bigler Knee & Shoulder Institute, led by board certified orthopedic surgeons Dr. Steven C. Thomas and Dr. Gregory T. Bigler, provides hip replacement surgery to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada as well as greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV.
Early Preparation
Your orthopedic surgeon may recommend a physical exam by your primary care physician before the date of your hip replacement surgery is scheduled. This can ensure that any medical conditions such as hypertension or diabetes can be brought under control before the surgery.
It may be necessary for you to lose some weight, in which case your surgeon will suggest you to follow a scientific diet and exercise program. If you are a smoker, you may be required to quit the habit at least for several weeks prior to the surgery to minimize your surgical and recovery risks.
If you are undergoing any dental work, it is best to complete it first so that there is infection in your mouth. This will minimize your risk of hip joint infection (through germs in your mouth). Blood transfusion may be required during the surgery. If you and your surgeon agree, you might donate your own blood ahead of time in order to mitigate your risk of reaction to the blood transfusion.
Three Weeks before the Surgery
- Get your home ready for post-operative recovery
- Store daily use items in cabinets that are easy to reach
- Prepare and freeze a few meals or stock up on ready frozen meals
- Check your home safety to prevent tripping and falls
- Place non-skid mats in the bathrooms or in the bathtub
- Consider having a bed on the downstairs level at home so that you don’t have to climb stairs for the first few days after surgery
Two Weeks before the Surgery
- Avoid the use of NSAIDs, aspirin and other anti-inflammatory medications as directed by your surgeon.
- Buy or rent the special medical equipment as recommend by your surgeon. This might include simple devices such as grabber and an elevated commode. It’s an astute idea to practice using these items at home in advance.
- If you have any doubts or concerns about the surgery, clear them with your surgeon well in time. Update them about the preparatory steps you have been taking about your upcoming hip replacement surgery.
One Week before the Surgery
- Make a list of all the medications you have been taking, and carry the list at the time of your pre-admission.
- Complete any pre-surgery x-rays, lab work, EKG, or other tests as recommended by your surgeon.
- Manage your insurance requirements and finances well before the surgery.
Board certified orthopedic surgeons Dr. Thomas and Dr. Bigler receive patients from Las Vegas, Nevada as well as greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV for hip replacement surgery.
Contact Us to Schedule a Consultation
If you would like to schedule an appointment or learn more about the Knee and Shoulder Institute procedures & treatments performed by Las Vegas, Nevada board-certified surgeons Steven C. Thomas, MD and Gregory T. Bigler, MD. Contact the office today click here.
Serving patients from and around greater Las Vegas, Lake Havasu, Bullhead City, Mesquite, Pahrump, Nevada.