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| T O T A L H I P R E P L A C E M E N T P O S T - O P :: Return to Treatment & Procedures Page :: Surgery and Post-Op Length of Hospitalization: Average stay is three to 10 days, but this varies according to an individual's general health and any complications that may occur. Anesthesia: A spinal or epidural is usually recommended, but some patients undergo general anesthesia. IV sedation is used with the epidural to help you relax and sleep. Blood Transfusions: We generally have patients donate one unit of their own blood to be used after their surgery if necessary. This will be arranged for you pre-operatively in coordination with your family doctor. Physical Therapy: Physical therapy begins the day after surgery. A therapist will come to your room and help you with exercises and walking. You will receive therapy twice a day while you're in the hospital. Following home physical therapy you may go to an outpatient physical therapy facility two to three times a week for four to six weeks. IMPORTANT: PRIOR TO SURGERY, VERIFY INSURANCE BENEFITS FOR YOUR PHYSICAL THERAPY AS ALL VISITS ARE NOT ALWAYS COVERED BY ALL COMPANIES. IT IS VERY IMPORTANT THAT YOU CONFIRM THE NUMBER OF PHYSICAL THERAPY VISITS APPROVED BY YOUR INSURANCE COMPANY FOLLOWING TOTAL HIP REPLACEMENT. INFORM YOUR PHYSICAL THERAPY PROVIDER ABOUT WHAT HAS BEEN APPROVED BEFORE YOU BEGIN THERAPY. Crutches/Walker: Initially you will walk with a walker, which will be provided while you are in the hospital. As you progress, your physical therapist may switch you to crutches or a cane. Wound Care: The surgical dressing is usually removed after two days. You may keep the incision open to air as long as there is no bleeding or drainage. We will remove your sutures in the office approximately two weeks after your surgery. Driving: Most patients are able to safely drive a car approximately four to six weeks after surgery. Home Care: You will need help with meal preparation for one to two weeks following discharge from the hospital. We recommend that you have someone stay with you after you leave the hospital for at least a week (and longer if possible). If this is not possible, please let the nurse know you will need assistance after surgery. Things to Report: Call the office at (573) 346-3700 if you develop any of the following: · Redness around the incision · Drainage or bleeding from the incision · Fever over 101 degrees · Increased swelling · Calf pain · Calf swelling Return to Work: Following total hip replacement, you will be able to return to sedentary work four to six weeks after surgery. We recommend restricting certain work activities: · No heavy lifting · Limited bending, stooping, and squatting PLEASE NOTE: After hip replacement, it will be necessary for you to take antibiotics before you undergo any standard dental work or teeth cleaning. Please contact our office at (573) 346-3700 to arrange for a prescription. If you are on any blood thinners (Coumadin, aspirin) or if you are diabetic, please notify Dr. Mihelic's nurse. |
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