Successful surgery is always a cooperative effort between the patient, the orthopaedic surgeon and the people who will help the patient recover from surgery.
Prior to your hip surgery be sure to ask about the following:
Pre-operative procedure
An orthopaedic evaluation of your hip is essential to determine the severity and type of hip injury. Your orthopaedic surgeon will discuss with you how your injury occurred and symptoms you are experiencing. During this visit your surgeon will assess your hip motion and stability, muscle strength and overall leg alignment. X-rays and a magnetic resonance image (MRI) scan may be taken to further evaluate the bones, ligaments and surrounding tissue of your hip.
Your orthopaedic surgeon may require that you have a complete physical examination by your family physician or internist as you will need to be cleared medically before undergoing this procedure. Also, remember to inform your surgeon of any medications you are taking and allergies you may have.
In addition, your surgeon may ask you to consult a physical therapist to discuss recovery and a hip rehabilitation program.
Preparing for surgery
Here are a few things to keep in mind as your prepare for your outpatient surgery.
Clothing:
Wear comfortable casual clothing that is easy to get on and off, such as drawstring-style sweatpants, boxer-style shorts or loose clothing.
Walking aids:
If you currently have crutches, bring them with you on the day of surgery. You may need them after your surgery.
Transportation and home care:
Arrange to have an adult available to drive you home after you have been discharged. Also, it is important to have someone stay with you for the first 24 hours you are at home.
Day of surgery
Once admitted, you will be asked to change into a hospital gown and remove all jewelry, contacts, glasses and even nail polish. The nursing staff will take your vital signs and ask you a few questions. Then you will be taken to the operating room on a cart. The anesthesiologist will meet you there and review the medications and procedures to be used. An IV is inserted into your arm and final preparations for your surgery are carried out.
