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Frequently Asked Questions
Before Surgery
What kinds of test will I need before surgery?
The type of testing needed prior to surgery depends on the type of surgery
being done, and on your personal medical history. Pre-Surgery
testing could consist of blood work, a chest x-ray, and an EKG.
Will I need to donate blood before surgery?
Donating blood prior to surgery is not necessary for most surgeries.
There are some total joint surgeries in which this is an elective, but
this needs to be discussed with the physician.
Are there any medicines that I need to take before surgery?
The only medications that maybe prescribed is an iron supplement prior to
a total joint replacement surgery. This is to the doctor discretion,
and based on your medical history.
Are there medications I need to stop taking before surgery?
Prior to any surgeries, aspirin or any blood thinning medication,
nonsteroidal medications, or herbal supplements, should be stopped 5 days
prior to surgery. Your medications and medical history should be
reviewed by the physician upon scheduling a surgery.
How long will I be in the hospital?
The length of your hospital stay is dependant upon the type of surgery and
your medical history. Typically for a total joint replacement
surgery a patient is in the hospital 3-5 days. If the patient isn't
ready for discharge, there are several options which include transitional
care, Home Health care, or outpatient physical therapy.
What should I bring to the hospital?
This will be discussed at your pre-surgery testing appointment with the
nurse. Different things are needed depending on the type of surgery
being performed.
When should I arrive at the hospital for my surgery?
Depending on the surgery and the location in which surgery is being
performed, this could be anywhere from 1-2 hours prior to your surgery
time.
Can my family stay with me during this time?
During the actual surgery, most facilities have a family waiting area in
which the family is updated on how you are doing during the procedure.
If the type of surgery being performed requires you to stay overnight,
accommodations for your family will be determined by the family.
Will anyone contact me before surgery to discuss any concerns I may have?
You will meet with your physician prior to the surgery to discuss the procedure
and any questions you have. There will also be an opportunity to ask
questions at your pre-surgery testing appointment. If you should have
anymore questions you can always call the office and ask for nurse.
Day of Surgery
What type of anesthesia will I have?
The type of anesthesia will be determined between you and the physician at
your surgery consultation. You will also have an opportunity to
speak with the anesthesiologist prior to surgery.
How long will the surgery take?
Depending on the type of surgery, and what the surgeon encounters, the
procedure will vary in time. Please make sure to ask the physician
of nurse at the time of your consultation.
Will the surgeon see my family immediately after the surgery is completed?
Yes - at some point the surgeon will meet with your family to discuss your
procedure.
After Surgery
What will my hospital stay be like?
Depending on your procedure. It is best to discuss this with the physician
at your surgery consultation
Will I see my doctor regularly while in the hospital?
The physician tries to have an encounter with you everyday. However
if the physician is unable to see you, the nursing staff keeps the
physician informed of your progress
When will I be ready for discharge?
Each patient's time of discharge differs on their medical history, and the
procedure that was performed.
How will I know whether to go home or to another facility for further rehab?
The medical staff at your chosen facility will assist you in deciding if
you are capable of going home.
Discharge Day: Recovery
What can I expect the first few days after discharge?
At the time of discharge you will be expected to be able to function at
home with little or no help. These first few days may be
challenging.
Do I need someone to stay with me full-time when I go home?
This is determined on an individual basis, and your progress when in the
hospital. The hospital will help you on determining what you will or
will not need.
When can I go up and down stairs?
Stair climbing will be discussed with your therapist and the physician.
Typically patients are able to go up and down stairs with some
limitations.
Will I need pain medicine after I'm discharged from the hospital?
The necessity of pain medications differ with each patient. The
physician will make sure that you are comfortable while at home.
How long will I need to use my walker or crutches?
Walker and crutches will be discussed with the physician and the physical
therapist. This is based on the type of surgery being performed
also.
When can I go outside?
There isn't really any limitations of going outside. however, it is
a good idea that you are stable on your feet in case of uneven ground.
When can I drive?
A patient is usually able to drive whenever they feel they are able to
take full control over a vehicle at any cost. Example - sudden turn,
or quick braking. Also, a patient should not drive if consuming pain
medication.
When will I be able to return to work?
The time away from work will be discussed with the physician and will be
determined by the type of surgery done, and the type of work the patient
does.
When will I be able to participate in sports activities?
Depending on the surgery and the location in which the surgery is being
performed, this could be anywhere from a few days to over a few months.
When will I be able to have sexual intercourse after my surgery?
Depending on the surgery and the location in which the surgery is being
performed, this could be anywhere from a few days to over a few months.
Access Orthopaedics is a division of
Northern Ohio Medical Specialists
and
a member of North Central CareNet.
Copyright 2007 Access Orthopaedics | Disclaimer
Last Modified: March 1, 2007