Hip Replacement Patient Notebook - Christiana Care Health System
Hip Replacement Patient Notebook - Christiana Care Health System
Hip Replacement Patient Notebook - Christiana Care Health System
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How long does the surgery take?<br />
We say roughly two to two and a-half hours for surgery.<br />
What are my anesthesia options?<br />
You may have a general anesthetic which most people call "being put to sleep." Some patients<br />
have a spinal anesthetic. The choice is between you and the anesthesiologist. For more<br />
information read “Anesthesia” in the FYI section of your notebook.<br />
Will I have pain after surgery?<br />
Yes, but we will keep you comfortable. Generally most patients are able to stop strong<br />
medication within one day. The day of surgery, most patients control their own medicine with<br />
a special pump that delivers medication directly into their IV. Your surgeon will talk with you<br />
what pain control option is best for you. For more information read about <strong>Patient</strong> Controlled<br />
Analgesia (PCA) in the FYI section of your notebook.<br />
Who will be doing the surgery?<br />
Your orthopedic surgeon will do the surgery. A physician's assistant often helps during the<br />
procedure.<br />
How long and where will my scar be?<br />
The scar will be six to eight inches long and found along the side of your hip.<br />
Will I need a walker, crutches or cane?<br />
Yes. Until your muscle strength returns after surgery, you will need a walker, a cane or<br />
crutches. Your needs will be decided by the PT and ordered for you by the Center for<br />
Advanced Joint <strong>Replacement</strong> case manager and delivered to you before you leave the<br />
hospital.<br />
Will I need other supplies?<br />
After hip replacement surgery, you may need a high toilet seat for three months.<br />
You might also think about installing grab bars in your tub or shower and buying a bath seat<br />
for safety. If needed, an OT will teach you how to use adaptive tools to help you with lower<br />
body dressing and bathing.<br />
Where will I go after go home from the hospital from the hospital?<br />
Most patients are sent home and carry on with their PT in an outpatient office. Some will<br />
need in home therapy three times a week for two weeks which will be arranged by the case<br />
manager. Others need a short inpatient stay at an extended care facility. This stay is most often<br />
from three to ten days. Check with your insurance company to understand your rehabilitation<br />
benefits. For more information about the Rehabilitation Services available through <strong>Christiana</strong><br />
<strong>Care</strong>, see the FYI section of your notebook.<br />
Will I need help at home?<br />
Yes. The first several days or weeks you will need someone to help you with making meal,<br />
housekeeping, etc. If you live alone, please set up to have someone in your home around the<br />
clock for at least the first three days when you go home.
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