Post-operative Instructions

During your early post-operative period your surgeon will provide you with the appropriate medication and care needed for your recovery. In the early postoperative period following a joint replacement surgery your active involvement is necessary for a quick and successful recovery.

Day of surgery

You will remain in the recovery room for two hours for monitoring after your surgery and then be transferred to your hospital room.

Incision Care

There will be a sterile dressing over your surgical wound. Your wound dressing will be changed regularly and removed about a week after surgery. Depending on the suture material used, the sutures may either be removed or left in situ to be gradually absorbed. You need to keep your wound clean and dry. You can usually use the shower the day after surgery.

Medications

Your surgeon will prescribe pain medications to ensure your comfort after surgery. To protect the implants from infection, you will be prescribed antibiotics. You may also receive a blood thinner for 2-3 weeks to reduce the risk of clot formation after your surgery.

Physical therapy

Walking is important to your recovery and you are encouraged to walk the day of your surgery. Your physical therapist will teach you specific exercises to strengthen your new joint and restore its range of motion. You will also be advised on a home exercise program after your discharge from the hospital.

Follow Up

You will be advised to make a follow-up appointment with your surgeon to check on your progress after your discharge. You should see your surgeon at regular intervals for follow-up examinations.

If there are any queries or concerns, please consult your surgeon.