Thousands of people across the world suffer from chronic hip pain and mobility issues. Initially, most patients try painkillers, physiotherapy, or lifestyle changes to find relief, but these methods only provide temporary comfort.
When pain becomes unbearable and daily activities like walking, climbing stairs, etc, become challenging, hip replacement surgery is recommended as a long-term solution. It has become one of the most successful orthopedic procedures to reduce pain, regain mobility, and improve quality of life. However, the success does not depend only on the surgery but how well you prepare before the procedure.
In this blog, we will understand how to prepare for a hip replacement surgery. Let’s start!
What is a Hip Replacement Surgery?
A hip replacement surgery, also known as hip arthroplasty, is a procedure to remove the damaged part of the hip joint and replace it with an artificial implant. These implants are made of metal, ceramic, or plastic. It reduces pain caused by arthritis, hip fractures, and avascular necrosis.
Medical Preparation Before the Surgery
Diagnostic Tests
Before undergoing hip replacement surgery, a detailed pre-surgical evaluation will be done to check the overall health of an individual. Some of the common diagnostic tests include:
- Blood Tests: To check anemia, red and white blood cell counts, infections, and other conditions that might affect healing.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG): To check heart activity and rhythm and rule out any cardiac problems.
- Chest X-ray: To evaluate heart and lung health and rule out any infections or chronic issues.
- MRI and CT Scan of the Hip: Provides detailed images of the hip joint to plan the surgery more precisely.
- Urine Sample: To detect any infection or abnormality in the urine system.
Note: If the person who will be undergoing the surgery has diabetes, high BP, heart disease, or lung disorders, the medical team will first stabilize the conditions to lower the risk of complications.
Medications Review
It is vital to discuss all the medicines a person is currently taking with the doctor, as certain medications can interfere with the surgical process or increase the risks during or after the procedure.
Medications that may interfere during the procedure:
- Blood Thinners: Medicines such as Warfarin and Heparin can increase the risk of excessive bleeding during surgery.
- Anti-inflammatory Drugs: Medicines such as Ibuprofen and Naproxen also thin the blood and cause complications.
- Herbal Supplements: Such as Ginseng, Garlic, Fish Oil, etc., can affect blood clotting.
These medicines can be adjusted or stopped days before the surgery as advised by the surgeon.
Lifestyle Changes Before Surgery
There are some lifestyle modifications which is vital before the surgery for better outcomes:
- Reduce alcohol intake and smoking few weeks before surgery
- Include lean proteins, calcium & vitamin D, and fruits and vegetables in your diet
- Eat at regular intervals and avoid excessive hunger
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated
- Count your calories daily
Hospital Preparation
To make the entire surgical experience less stressful and more comfortable, preparing for the hospital stay in advance is beneficial. Packing a small bag with some essentials will make the hospital stay easier, such as:
- Comfortable and loose-fitting clothes
- A list of current medications and medical history
- Toiletries and personal hygiene items
- Any mobility aid (walker, cane, or crutches) recommended by your doctor
Pre-Surgery Instructions
Specific guidelines need to be followed the night before and on the day of operation:
- Fasting: Do not eat or drink anything after midnight before the surgery. Having an empty stomach reduces the risk of complications during anesthesia.
- Medications: Take only those medicines that are approved by the surgeon on the day of surgery.
- Arrive with Support: Arrive at the hospital with a caregiver or family member to assist you with everything you need.
Also read:- Hip Replacement Surgery Cost in India
Recovery Expectations: After Surgery
- A hospital stay of 3-5 days is required after the surgery.
- Physiotherapy will start within a day or two after the surgery.
- Rehabilitation exercises are recommended to regain strength and mobility.
- Pain medications are prescribed to prevent discomfort
- For the first two weeks, patients are advised to use a walker and avoid bending.
- Within 4-6 weeks, patients can resume light daily activities.
- Full recovery may take 6 months to 1 year.
Final Words
Preparing yourself for a hip replacement surgery involves multiple steps and getting your mind and body ready for a smooth recovery. With proper preparation, hip replacement can give you a second chance at a pain-free, active, and independent life. Remember, the more effort you put into preparation, the better and faster your recovery journey will be.
