Planning for your hip surgery prepares you for the operation and helps to ensure a smooth surgery and easier recovery. Here are certain pre-operative and post-operative guidelines which will help you prepare for hip surgery.

Pre-operative guidelines

When your surgeon decides that surgery is the best option to overcome hip pain and restore movement, you will be briefed about the procedure and can start preparing yourself for the surgery.

• Prior to surgery, you should inform your doctor about all the medications you are taking, so that your doctor can decide if any medications can interfere with the procedure and ask you to stop using it. In particular, you will be asked to stop using aspirin, inflammatory and herbal medications before surgery as they can lead to bleeding.
• You will be asked to quit smoking prior to surgery.
• Your doctor will explain all the possible risks and complications involved with the surgery.
• You may also be advised to consult your general physician to confirm on any other health conditions that may cause complications during surgery.
• Based on your medical history, ongoing medications and physical examination, the different options for anesthesia will be explained to you.
• Your surgeon may also recommend a strengthening program, which includes exercises to improve your strength and flexibility prior to surgery in order to help you in your post-operative recovery.

Before you go for your surgery, it is advisable to plan ahead for coming home from the hospital.

• Remove loose rugs and anything that can obstruct your walking path and cause falls or accidents. If necessary, you can widen the walking path to accommodate your walker or cane that you will be using during your recovery period.
• Place all items that you regularly use, such as remote controls and medications, in easy-to-reach places.
• Un-tuck your bedding so that it is easier to move in and out of bed. If your bedroom is situated in one of the higher floors, it is advisable to relocate to the lower floor to avoid climbing stairs.
• Opt to have some assistance after your surgery for a few days.
• Prepare single serving meals so that they can be quickly heated and easily cleaned.

Post-operative guidelines

After your surgery, you will be shifted to the recovery room where your vitals will be monitored. X-rays will be taken to determine the success of the surgery. Once you are in a stable condition, you will be shifted back to the ward. Drains will be removed and you can start walking depending on your comfort and surgeon’s advice. Your physiotherapist will help you move around better by teaching you certain post-operative hip exercises. You will be discharged around 5 to 7 days after the surgery. Your doctor will give you a recovery plan that you should follow.

During the first few weeks at home, you should take care of your operated hip. You should avoid crossing your legs while sitting or standing, and do not allow your knees to come higher than your hips. Also, avoid sitting in low sofas or chairs. It is always helpful to have some assistance while walking. Your doctor may recommend you continue the post-operative exercises until your complete recovery. It is important to keep up your three, six, nine months, and annual follow-ups with your surgeon.