Am I too old for surgery?
There is no age limitation to undergoing a joint replacement. As long as you are in good health, have a desire to relieve pain and resume an active lifestyle, and are willing to put in the work needed for recovery, you will be considered for surgery. Your surgeon and medical doctor will help guide you and make sure you are optimized for surgery.
Will I need blood?
Blood loss from a total joint replacement is minimal. We do not anticipate a need for transfusion after surgery and do not encourage blood donation prior to surgery.
How long does the surgery take?
Total joint replacement surgery typically averages 90 minutes. Please keep in mind that your hospital stay will be of much longer duration, usually 4-8 hours.
What will my scar look like, and how will my incision be closed?
KNEE ONLY: Your scar will be approximately 4-6 inches long, and down the center of your knee.
HIP ONLY: Your scar will be approximately 4-6 inches long. The location of your scar will be dependent on the surgical approach used (anterior, anterolateral, or posterior)
Your surgical incision will be closed in layers. The deeper layers will be closed with dissolvable sutures, the skin will be closed with glue or staples. If you have surgical staples, your home physical therapist will remove them 14-21 days after surgery.
When can I walk after surgery?
We believe that early ambulation is one of the keys to a successful recovery. Your physical therapist will get you up and walking as soon as your anesthesia wears off, typically just hours after your procedure. There are typically no restrictions on weight-bearing after a joint replacement.
When can I drive after surgery?
On average, patients return to driving 6 weeks following total joint replacement surgery. You may be able to drive sooner based on your progress. Your Physical Therapist will be able to guide you.
When can I return to work?
When you return to work will depend on your health and how well your rehabilitation program is going. The quicker you get your strength and movement back, the faster you can return to your normal routine. The type of work you do will also be taken into consideration. If your job is sedentary and offers an environment compatible with your rehab needs, you will be able to return to work sooner than if your job requires heavy physical exertion.
Most people are given 2 months off work after surgery.
When will I see my doctor again?
You will be asked to come in for a follow-up appointment with Orthopedics approximately 4-6 weeks after your surgery. Current x-rays will be taken and reviewed, your mobility will be assessed, and wound examined. A staff member will contact you to schedule this appointment.
Are there any activity restrictions after surgery?
Your artificial joint will allow you to return to doing normal daily activities with little or no pain. You may be able to hike, dance, ride a bike, and play golf. We recommend avoiding any high impact activities that put stress on your new joint. These include running, tennis, and skiing. Talk to your surgeon or rehabilitation therapist about which types of exercise are safest for your new joint.
When can I swim after surgery?
A water-resistant dressing will be placed over your surgical incision and you will be allowed to shower immediately after surgery. However, you cannot submerge your incision (spa, bath, pool, etc.) for 6 weeks following surgery, or until a scar has formed and your incision is completely healed.
When can I travel?
It’s best not to travel long distances for 6 to 8 weeks after surgery. For 3 months after surgery, there’s a risk of developing blood clots in your legs. If you travel, stop often and walk to prevent blood clots. You may choose to wear support stockings to help your circulation.
Please note, your new joint will set off the security alarms at the airport. We don’t provide a letter stating you have an artificial joint, because airport security no longer accepts these.
How long will my new knee/hip last?
The duration of a total joint replacement will vary for everyone. The implants can last upwards of 20 years, but their longevity will vary based on an individual’s weight and activity level.
What if I don’t have anyone to help me after surgery?
Your care coordinator nurse may be able to help you secure postoperative care arrangements. They can inform you of the different services available to you, such as Skilled Nursing and Assisted Living Facility placement, privately hiring caregivers, and looking into potential long-term insurance benefits.
Please discuss any caregiver concerns with us prior to your procedure, so that you have ample time to make arrangements.
You can find the phone number for our Care Coordination / Discharge Planning Dept. under the “Resources” section of this website.
Will I need a Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) placement?
Most patients can discharge home after a joint replacement. However, if you are slower to progress or have preexisting conditions that limit your rehab potential, you may be transferred to a Skilled Nursing Facility for continued rehab.
Please keep in mind that there must be a clinical indication for placement at a rehab facility. Social issues, such as not having help at home, do not warrant placement.
If you have difficulties securing help at home, please discuss your discharge plan with your care coordinator nurse. She will be able to explain the skilled nursing facility criteria for placement and notify you of your insurance coverage for services.
You can find the phone number for our Care Coordination / Discharge Planning Dept. under the “Resources” section of this website.
