Blog

August 10, 2016

Common Hip Replacement Questions

If you’re having hip replacement surgery, you’ve probably got lots of questions for your orthopedic surgeon. You may have so many questions that you forget to ask something at a pre-op appointment.

Fear not. We’ve got you covered with answers to common hip replacement questions. If the answer to your question isn’t listed, contact one of our trusted surgeons to help.

What Are the Risks?

While most surgeries are free of complications, infections and blood clots are a risk. To lessen the risk, you’ll receive antibiotics and blood thinners.

When Will I Get out of Bed?

You’ll get out of bed on the day of your surgery. The next morning, staff will help you sit in a chair and take a few steps with a walker.

How Long Will I Be in the hospital?

Plan to be in the hospital for three days. If you live alone, you should arrange for someone to stay with you temporarily.

Will I Experience Pain After Surgery?

Unfortunately you will, but medication will lessen discomfort. Most patients only need to take very strong medication for one day.

Will I Have a Scar?

Yes. You will have a six to eight inch scar on the side of your hip.

Will I Need a Walker, Crutches or Cane?

Until you regain your muscle strength, you will need an assistive device. Your physical therapist will determine your needs, and you’ll receive the appropriate device before leaving the hospital.

Will I Need Other Equipment?

You’ll need a high toilet seat for several months, and you may need equipment to help you dress and bathe your lower extremities. A bath seat or grab bars in the bathroom may also be helpful. An occupational therapist will determine your needs while you’re in the hospital.

Will I Need Help at Home?

In the days and weeks following surgery, you’ll need someone to prepare meals, do housework and help you get to appointments.

Will I Need Physical Therapy at Home?

Yes. We’ll arrange for you to have physical therapy either in your home or at an outpatient rehab center before you leave the hospital.

When Can I Drive?

It depends on you and your car. If you have surgery on your left hip and you drive an automatic, you could be driving within two weeks. If the surgery was on your right hip, you may not be able to drive for six weeks. Your surgeon will let you know when it’s OK to drive.

When Can I Go Back to Work?

Plan to take a least a month off of work. If your job requires strenuous activity, you’ll need to take a longer leave.

For more questions or concerns about your hip replacement surgery, make an appointment today.