If you are told that you need surgery, you probably want to do everything in your power to help ensure the surgery is a success. Even though you’re not the one performing the operation, you play a very large role in the success of your operation, and a lot of work begins before you go under the knife. In today’s blog, we share some tips for how to prepare for your hip replacement operation so you can have the best chance at a full recovery post-op.
Ask Questions
You’ll have at least one pre-surgery consultation with Dr. Botero, and it’s important that you ask questions during this time. Research has shown that asking questions before surgery can help to calm anxiety and reduce stress ahead of the operation. Having a calm demeanor and being prepared for life after surgery can actually help you start the process off on the right foot. Ask about the operation, your rehab, your recovery timeline and anything else on your mind. We’ll be happy to answer any questions you might have.
Medication Management
If you’re taking any medications, it’s important that you talk to the surgeon, your surgical team and your prescribing physician to find out how to best manage your medications leading up to and following the procedure. You may be required to wean off of a drug, or you may switch to another medication that is less likely to increase complication potential during the operation. Follow your care team’s instructions with regards to how to manage prescriptions leading up to the day of surgery.
Diet and Exercise
While your hip may not allow you to be as active as you’d like to be prior to the operation, it’s important that you maintain a healthy diet and try to remain active in the days and weeks leading up to your operation. This will help ensure your body has a healthy amount of vitamins and minerals in your system leading up to and following your operation, and it can help you maintain a healthy weight. Having a healthy weight can help you avoid overstressing your new hip joint during the recovery stage.
House Prep
It’s also a good idea to get your house in order before you head in for your surgery. Some actions will be tough to do while you’re recovering, so plan ahead. Pick up tripping hazards, get the laundry done and prep some healthy, easy-to-reheat meals so you don’t have to labor through the cooking process after an operation. Also be sure to stock up on entertainment items, like books, movies and puzzles.
Day of Surgery Prep
Finally, the day has come for you to have your hip surgery. Shower following your doctor’s instructions, and wear and pack comfortable clothes. Depending on how long you’ll stay in the recovery ward, be sure you have arraigned a ride home for when you’re discharged. Also, avoid eating or drinking ahead of your surgery as advised by your surgical team. Follow their instructions in regards to how to prepare in the 24 hours leading up to your operation, and you’ll be good to go.
For more information about having the best
outcomes following hip surgery, check out some of the other blogs Dr. Botero has written on the subject, or contact his office today.
