Preparing for Hip Replacement Surgery

Hip Replacement Surgery is a procedure that helps individuals suffering from severe pain related to hip and stiffness. The pain may occur due to arthritis, injuries, or any other condition that damages the hip joint.

As the name suggests, it is surgery that involves replacement. Thus, the surgery involves removing the damaged parts of the hip and replacing them with new ones. The new parts are artificial parts made up of metal, ceramic, or plastic. This process helps in eliminating pain to a certain level. This blog, by an expert Hip Replacement Surgeon in Ahmedabad, Dr. Ateet Sharma, will help you understand Preparation for Hip Replacement Surgery.

Pre-Operative Phase

The pre-operative stage is where you are analysed to check whether you are ready for the surgery. There are certain conditions that you might fulfill to become eligible for surgery. These tests help in addressing any previous uncertainties.

It's Test Time!

There are six main tests that you may come across before going through Hip Replacement Surgery :

• A primary test is assessed by a physician to review your current medical condition and your medical history.
• A blood test is done to check red and white blood cell counts. It helps to check the regular functioning of the kidneys and liver. It helps to know that the body can handle the surgery and recover effectively.
• An electrocardiogram (ECG) records the activity of the heart. It helps identify any irregular activity.
• A stress test evaluates the response of the heart to physical exertion.
• X-ray helps check the health of your lungs and heart.
• Lastly, a urine sample can help detect infections or abnormalities in your urinary system.

Not all the tests are compulsory for the patients. Which test is essential and which has to be gone through is prescribed by the doctor.

The Consultation Phase

Before going through the surgery, you will have a brief talk with the surgeon. It is when you should talk about any queries related to the surgery or any other medical condition that might affect the surgery procedure- traditional or anterior hip replacement.

Maintain Transparency

Make sure that you inform your doctor about any food allergies you have to avoid any complications during the anaesthesia and recovery phases.

Disclose Your Chronic Condition

You should disclose conditions like diabetes, hypertension, or asthma, as it might affect the surgery.

List Of Medication

Make sure that you provide the complete list of medications to the surgeon. It is important to maintain transparency because some medicines might need to be adjusted before the surgery.

Also, if you have gone through any previous surgery, disclose the same.

Blood Donation Phase

In any surgery, blood loss is a normal part. Thus, preparing in advance for this can minimise the need for external blood transfusions.

Ways you can prepare in advance :

• You can start taking iron supplements before the surgery. Iron helps build red blood cells and reduces the need for transfusions.
• Sometimes, you might have to donate your blood ahead of time. It ensures that even if a transfusion occurs, it will be your blood. Furthermore, it also reduces the chances of complications.
• If you prefer not to use any blood products, you must discuss this with your surgeon. The surgeon might suggest strategies to minimise blood loss and use alternative blood transfusions.

Weight Management Phase

You should maintain a healthy weight before the surgery to reduce the risk of uncertainties or complications.

Some steps that you must follow to maintain your weight

• Keep yourself hydrated
• Maintain a healthy eating schedule. Eat at regular intervals to maintain steady energy levels and avoid excessive hunger, which can lead to obesity.
• Do take your time and chew while eating.
• You should know about the calories which you consume. You can use nutritional labels and online resources to track your calorie intake.

The Recovery Phase

When you go for a short consultation, your doctor will advise you about some steps that you should keep in mind before the surgery :

Medications

Avoid any medication that can increase the risk of bleeding, such as blood thinners. Do all the steps suggested by your surgeon without their advice do not just take any steps.

Avoid Alcohol

The reason why alcohol should be avoided is because it can lead to a condition like blood clotting and hydration, which may increase the risk and complication rate while the surgery is going on.

Arrange for a caretaker.

You will need to arrange for someone who can help you get home after the surgery and also stay with you in the initial period. It will provide you with emotional and physical support. Furthermore, you will also need someone to help you with your daily routine and provide support as you begin your rehabilitation.

Home Arrangement Phase

When you return home after the surgery, at first, you might face a bit of discomfort, and you will also need to make adjustments according to your requirements.

Some of the adjustments to be done at home are as follows :

• You need to install bars for grabbing in the bathroom and a shower chair, which will eventually help make your daily life easy.
• Adjust the height of your bed and ensure that all the frequently used items are within your reach so that you will not have to do most of the movement.
• If you do not have a cook or a family member or friend to help you out, then cook in advance and freeze it to minimise the effort required for cooking during recovery. Focus on balanced meals that are easy to reheat.
• Clear your house by removing any tripping substances.

Preparing yourself for your hip replacement surgery involves multiple steps. One step that links to every preparation is going along with the guidance provided by your surgeon. Dr Ateet Sharma, the best Robotic Orthopedic Surgeon, will guide you to the steps that will make your surgery smooth and comfortable. Schedule a consultation with our expert and get the best assistance!

All The Best For Your Hip Replacement Surgery!