Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to have surgery during the COVID-19 pandemic?
Yes. Surgery patients will enter through a special entrance of the hospital, be fast tracked through atouchless registration process and then escorted through a different path to surgery by team member.
What type of joint replacement surgeries do you offer?
Our board-certified surgeons perform total hip replacements, and partial and total knee replacements in our advanced surgical facilities.
What are the main reasons for a hip replacement?
Certain conditions cause damage to the hip joint, like osteoarthritis, commonly known as wear-and-tear, rheumatoid arthritis, and osteonecrosis (loss of blood flow to the ball portion of the hip joint).
What are the top signs you might need a hip replacement?
- Pain that persists or worsens, even with pain medication
- Pain while walking, even with a cane or walker
- Ability to sleep, get dressed, or use stairs is affected
- Difficulty to stand up from a seated position
What happens in a hip replacement surgery?
In a nutshell, the surgeon replaces the hip socket and the ball, or head, of the thigh bone. Areas in the socket and ball where cartilage and bone have been lost are resurfaced, and then the surgeon inserts an artificial ball and socket into healthy bone.
Do you perform second hip replacements?
Yes. If you already have a prosthetic hip joint, it can wear out over time. Meet with your orthopedic surgeon for an evaluation to see if this is the best option for you.
What happens in a knee replacement surgery?
Knee replacement surgery is designed to replace your damaged cartilage, as well as any loss of bone structure or ligament support.
What are the different types of knee replacement?
Knee replacement options can vary based on your age, weight, activity level, knee size and shape, and overall health. Depending on how severe your knee pain is, your orthopedic surgeon may recommend total or partial knee replacement.
How do I know which knee replacement surgery is right for me?
Each patient is unique and can experience joint pain differently, so be sure to discuss your treatment options with one of our orthopedic surgeons. You may be a candidate for a total or partial knee replacement.
What are the main reasons for a knee replacement?
Like the hip, knees are susceptible to osteoarthritis, taking a lot of wear and tear, as well as rheumatoid arthritis. Other conditions that can cause damage to the knee joint include structural issues like bowed legs, knee injuries, and the loss of blood flow to the knee bone.
What are the top signs you might need a knee replacement?
- Pain and/or difficulty walking, climbing stairs, and getting in and out of chairs
- Pain while at rest
- Work, hobbies and/or daily activities restricted
Are there any risks in having a joint replacement surgery?
All surgical procedures involve risks. Your surgeon will discuss with you the major risks associated with your procedure. You will be treated with antibiotics before and after surgery to help avoid infection. You will also receive anticoagulant (blood thinning) medication to decrease the risk of developing blood clots. Please discuss any concerns you have regarding your joint replacement with your surgeon.
Will I be awake during surgery?
Two types of anesthesia are most used for joint replacement surgeries. General anesthesia allows you to sleep during the procedure. Spinal anesthesia is also an option for some patients. It allows certain areas of the body to be numbed for a procedure while also receiving medication to make you sleepy. There are several determining factors into which type of anesthesia is recommended for each patient. Your surgeon and anesthesiologist will discuss the options with you before surgery.
How long will my surgery last?
Average surgery time for a joint replacement is one to three hours. Your time may be more or less, depending on your specific circumstances.
Will I have pain after surgery?
Joint replacements are major procedures and you will experience some pain afterwards. Most patients will have a moderate amount of discomfort for the first couple of days after surgery. Pain medications will be administered to you through an IV and then with pain pills. Our staff is dedicated to helping you manage your pain and learning other techniques that will increase your comfort level.
When can I walk?
You may get up and walk with a physical therapist on the day of surgery, if your doctor has ordered it. Otherwise, you will begin physical therapy the morning after surgery. We ask that you always call for assistance in getting out of bed. Your physical therapist will inform you when you are safe to move on your own.
Will I need a walker or cane after surgery?
You will need an assistive device, such as a walker, cane or crutches, after surgery. These will only be temporary, and your surgeon will determine how long you will need the device. We work with you and your insurance provider to provide you with the appropriate equipment before leaving the hospital.
When can I shower?
Your surgeon will determine when you may shower after surgery. Our staff will assist you with daily baths while in the hospital. You will not be able to sit down in a bathtub for several months after surgery. Talk with your surgeon on how long you will need to wait before sitting in a bathtub.
How long will I be in the hospital?
The average stay for a joint replacement is one to two nights in the hospital. Your stay with us may be shorter or longer, depending on your progress and the recommendation from your surgeon. Our social worker will help you with a discharge plan to home, rehabilitation center or skilled nursing facility.
Will I need physical therapy when I leave the hospital?
Your physical therapy starts in the hospital, where your care team will then decide which setting is best once you leave the hospital. This could mean going home with outpatient therapy or home health visits, or even staying in an inpatient post-acute care facility for those who need a higher level of professional clinical care than they would receive at home.
Can I drive after surgery?
You cannot drive immediately after surgery and should have arrangements for someone to bring you home from the hospital. Typically, patients may resume driving four to six weeks after surgery. Discuss with your surgeon when you may begin driving after your joint replacement.
When will I need to see my surgeon again?
Your doctor will instruct you on when a follow-up appointment will be needed. You will also be given instructions at discharge on how to contact the surgeon’s office to make an appointment or if you should have any issues after returning home.
