1. When can I shower?
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Generally, the skin staples are removed 10-14 days after the surgery. You can begin to shower two days after they are removed. The delay allows the tiny pin holes to close. There are occlusive dressings that can be used at my direction that will allow for earlier showering. In the meantime, to avoid increased risk of infection, stick to sponge baths and washing your hair over the sink.
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2. When can I drive?
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Following joint replacement, one should have discontinued all narcotic pain medications, and have regained adequate strength in their operative limb in order to drive safely. This will vary depending on whether your left or right leg was operated upon, and whether your car has a clutch. In general, patients are able to drive safely 3-4 weeks after surgery.
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3. When can I remove the elastic stockings?
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The elastic stockings help to reduce swelling and prevent blood clots from forming. These should be worn throughout the day and night for the first three weeks after surgery. They should be removed twice a day for about thirty minutes at a time.
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4. When can I stop taking the aspirin?
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The buffered aspirin,one tablet twice a day, is used to prevent blood clots following surgery. It may be stopped after four weeks.
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5. How long do I need to maintain the hip replacement precautions?
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Following hip replacement, there is a risk of dislocation of the prosthesis. By the time you leave the hospital, the Physical Therapists will have taught you how to avoid this risk by avoiding certain positions and motions. The risk of dislocation is highest during the first year after surgery, and is very rare after that. Therefore, I recommend maintaining a conscious awareness during that time. When your pain has gone and you are back to full activity, it is easy to forget. A dislocation is a painful and significant set back and is worth avoiding.
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6. When can I get back to full activity?
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Should I avoid any types of activities? Surgery was performed in order to allow you to resume full activity and to enjoy an active life. This is a gradual process that occurs over the first few months after surgery. Generally speaking, you can return to sedentary work-desk work- after three to four weeks. Your initial focus after surgery should be on optimal healing, and part of that is rest. Your stamina will improve after the first few weeks and this will help at work. Air travel should be avoided for the first six weeks after surgery in order to reduce the risk of blood clots. Impact loading activities-jogging, singles tennis, jumping sports, should be avoided in order to maximize the longevity of the new artificial joint surface. For hip replacement patients, golf should be avoided for the first three months. The pelvic twist that occurs with a golf swing puts the new hip replacement at risk for dislocation until the tissues have healed and strength has returned.
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7. Why is the outside of my knee numb after knee replacement surgery?
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The lateral side of the knee is numb initially after surgery because the skin nerves travel from the inner (medial) side of the knee to the outer (lateral) side. They are cut when we make the incision and the sensation returns slowly over the first year.
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8. When do I have to take antibiotics after my joint replacement?
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An artificial hip or knee can become infected when bacteria travel through the blood stream. This can occur after major surgery or after such minor procedures as having your teeth cleaned. We have developed an antibiotic protocol for you that should be used prior to having a procedure. This will be true for as long as you have your joint replacement-in other words, for the rest of your life!
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9. Should I have a special diet after surgery?
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Following your joint replacement, you will benefit from a well balanced diet rich in leafy green vegetables. A multivitamin, an iron supplement for the first month, CoEnzyme Q, and B complex all help to restore the nutrients that are typically depleted by surgery.
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10. How much does the prosthesis weigh?
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The entire prosthesis generally weighs less than a pound - sorry, you can't blame me for weight gain!
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11. After my hip replacement, my foot on that side is swollen. Why?
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The body's mechanism for pumping fluid out of the legs, is the leg muscles. Once you are putting full weight on your operative leg, your swelling will resolve.
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12. What can I do prior to my surgery to improve my outcome?
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To the best of your ability, strengthen your torso and legs. This can be difficult with arthritic hip and knee joints due to pain. Isometric exercises, swimming, and walking in waist deep water in a pool are all ways to achieve this. Try to get your weight to your optimal level. Surgery and recovery are more difficult in overweight patients. Quit smoking- this will reduce your risk of postoperative lung problems as well as blood clots. It will also improve wound healing and bone healing.
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