Question 1

What is the recovert time for a total hip replacement?

Accepted Answer

Everyone heals from total hip replacement surgery at a different pace. In most cases, however, you will be restricted to using a walker or crutches for 1½ month after your operation. You will then be allowed to advance to a stick outdoors and no support around the house for several weeks. You will gradually return to normal function without any assistive devices. This usually takes about 3 months but may take longer

Question 2

When do I need to follow up?

Accepted Answer

Follow-up appointments should be made post-operatively at 4-6 weeks, 1 year, 2 years, 5 years, 7 years, and 10 years.

Question 3

What is the dislocation of the hip?

Accepted Answer

A dislocation of the hip occurs when the femoral head (ball) comes out of the acetabulum (socket). While this risk is very small, typically less than 2%, you are given dislocation precautions to help avoid this happening.

Question 4

How long do I need to follow my dislocation precautions after total hip replacement surgery?

Accepted Answer

Follow your precautions very carefully for the first 6 weeks. You should avoid extreme positions of hip flexion (bending) forever.

Question 5

I've insomnia after total hip replacement surgery. Is this normal?

Accepted Answer

Insomnia is a common complaint following hip replacement surgery. Non-prescription remedies such as Benadryl or melatonin may be effective. If insomnia continues to be a problem, medication may be prescribed for you.

Question 6

I feel dipressed after total hip replacement surgery? Is this normal?

Accepted Answer

It is not uncommon to have feelings of depression after your hip replacement. This may be due to a variety of factors such as limited mobility, discomfort, increased dependency on others, and/or medication side effects. Feelings of depression will typically fade as you begin to return to your regular activities. If your feelings of depression persist, consult your internist.

Question 7

When can I discontinue using a raised toilet seat after total hip replacement surgery?

Accepted Answer

You may discontinue using a raised toilet seat between 6 and 10 weeks after your total hip replacement operation.

Question 8

Do I need antibiotics before dental work or an invasive procedure after total hip replacement surgery?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You will be given a letter explaining this in detail at your first follow-up visit. Avoid any dental cleaning or non-urgent procedures for 6 weeks post-operatively.

Question 9

What should I expect for my range of motion (ROM) at 6 weeks? At 1 Year?

Accepted Answer

Everyone’s range of motion (ROM) varies and depends on individual factors. Your potential will be determined at the time of your surgery. In most cases, you will have enough motion to put on socks and tie your shoes. Clipping toenails may be difficult.

Question 10

Can I sleep on my side after total hip replacement?

Accepted Answer

You may sleep on your operative side whenever you feel comfortable. You may sleep on your non-operative side at 4 weeks with a thick (8-10 inch) pillow between your knees.

Question 11

How long do I need a bandage after total hip replacement surgery?

Accepted Answer

You need a bandage for approximately 2 week after total hip replacement surgery. If desired, you may continue to wear a bandage to protect the incision from irritation.

Question 12

Can I kneel after total hip replacement surgery?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can kneel 6 weeks after total hip replacement surgery. To kneel, touch down with your operative knee first. To arise from kneeling, use your non-operative leg first.

Question 13

When can I shower after total hip replacement surgery?

Accepted Answer

You may shower 5-7 days after your operation,but keep the dressing dry.

Question 14

Can I go up and downstairs after total hip replacement surgery?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Initially, you will lead with your non-operated leg when going up stairs and lead with your operated leg when going down stairs. You can use the phrase, “Up with the good, down with bad” to help you remember. As your leg gets stronger, you will be able to perform on stairs in a more regular pattern (about 1 month).

Question 15

Shoudl I use ice or heat after total hip replacement surgery?

Accepted Answer

Ice should be used for the first several days after total hip replacement surgery, particularly if you have a lot of swelling or discomfort. Once the initial swelling has decreased, you may use ice and/or heat.

Question 16

How long should I use compression stockings (TEDS) after total hip replacement surgery?

Accepted Answer

Compression stockings should be used for the first few weeks in order to help reduce swelling and improve circulation. You may wear them longer, especially if you find that your ankles swell without them.

Question 17

What activities should I avoid after total hip replacement surgery?

Accepted Answer

Compression stockings should be used for the first few weeks in order to help reduce swelling and improve circulation. You may wear them longer, especially if you find that your ankles swell without them.

Question 18

What activities are permitted?

Accepted Answer

You may return to most activities as tolerated after total hip replacement surgery, including walking, gardening, and golf. Some of the best activities to help with motion and strengthening are swimming and a stationary bicycle.

Question 19

Will I set off the machines at airport security after total hip replacement surgery? Do I need a doctor's note about my surgery?

Accepted Answer

You may set off the machines at airport security depending on the type of hip implant you have and the sensitivity of the security checkpoint equipment. At your follow-up visit you may ask to have a wallet card to carry with you for travel.

Question 20

When can I travel after total hip replacement surgery?

Accepted Answer

You may travel as soon as you feel comfortable after total hip replacement surgery. It is recommended that you get up to stretch or walk at least once an hour when taking long trips. This is important to help prevent blood clots.

Question 21

When can I return to work after total hip replacement surgery?

Accepted Answer

When you can return to work after total hip replacement surgery depends on your profession. Typically, if your work is primarily sedentary, you may return after approximately 2 month. If your work is more rigorous, you may require up to 3 months before you can return to full duty. In some cases, more time may be necessary.

Question 22

When I can drive after total hip replacement surgery?

Accepted Answer

If you had surgery on your right hip, you should not drive for at least 2 month after total hip replacement surgery. After 2 month, you may return to driving as you feel comfortable. If you had surgery on your left hip, you may return to driving as you feel comfortable as long as you have an automatic transmission. Be careful getting into and out of a car, and avoid crossing your operated leg over the other. DO NOT DRIVE IF TAKING NARCOTICS.

Question 23

I'm constipated after total hip replacement surgery?

Accepted Answer

It is very common to have constipation post-operatively. This may be due to a variety of factors but is especially common when taking narcotic pain medication. A simple over-the-counter stool softener (Isabgole) is the best prevention for this problem. In rare instances, you may require a suppository or enema.

Question 24

How long should I take iron suppliments after total hip replacement surgery?

Accepted Answer

Taking iron supplements for 4 weeks after total hip replacement surgery is usually sufficient. These supplements help your body replenish its iron stores, which may be depleted post-operatively.

Question 25

How long will I will be on "blood thinner" This medication is used to help prevent bloods clots you will stay blood thinner for 4 to 6 weeks?"

Accepted Answer

Typically, you will be on “blood thinner” This medication is used to help prevent blood clots. you will stay blood thinner for 4 to 6 weeks.

Question 26

Can I use weights after total hip replacement surgery?

Accepted Answer

Generally, you should not use weights for the first 2 months after total hip replacement surgery. However, as everyone’s strength varies, consult with your physical therapist before using weights. Use light weights to begin with and gradually progress from 1 lb. to a maximum of 5 lbs.

14/15, Indira Nagar, Opp. Sec - 14 Power House, Lucknow - 226016, (U.P)

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0522-4022591

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14/15, Indira Nagar, Opp. Sec - 14 Power House, Lucknow - 226016, (U.P)

0522-4022591

MANJU

MULTISPECIALITY HOSPITAL

A Unit Of Manjushri Lifesciences Private Limited

Frequently Ask Question

Call Us Now

0522-4022591

Manju

Multispeciality Hospital

MULTISPECIALITY
HOSPITAL

Multispeciality
Hospital