Here are some frequently asked questions related to hip replacement:
Q: “I am scared of this operation”
A: The fear for this kind of surgery is real and quite natural. Preparing yourself psychologically can go a long way towards relieving your anxiety. The following tips could help: Fear of the unknown
Our team includes resident doctors who will explain what is an artificial joint with the help of a bone model. Talk to us and take the telephone numbers of people who have been successfully operated upon. You can also meet them personally at the clinic, which will help allay most your fears.
Q: “What are the chances of infection?”
A: Our infection rate is very minimal, matching international standards (less than 1% in about 700 cases over the last 12 years). This is owing to the multiple precautionary measures that we take which are:
- Personalized attention and strict adherence to the stringent protocol devised by us which is time tested for almost a decade now. This includes use of disposables which guard and minimize the chances of infection.
- Operating in a specialized operation theatre designed exclusively for joint surgeries. It is equipped with Laminar Air Flow technology which drastically minimizes the risk of infection by using special filters and a vertical flow which creates a “bacteria free” sterile environment.
- Use of body exhaust space suits similar to the suits worn by astronauts.
- Use of prophylactic antibiotics personally supervised by a team of dedicated doctors and infection specialists.
Q: “How long will the artificial joint last? What are my limitations after the surgery?”
A: Published literature the world over clearly shows that an artificial hip or knee joint can last at lest for 10 years although in some cases, joints have lasted as long as 25 years. It has relieved millions of crippled arthritic patients of pain and improved their quality of life. In the USA alone 450,000 patients are operated upon every years. The artificial joint can last longer if the following points are seriously considered:
- The surgeon who performs this operation has been trained under the guidance of a reputed teacher who follows global standards.
- Patients must strictly adhere to the post-operative physiotherapy program and avoid doing those activities which are not permissible. They must remember that the artificial joint can last longer only if used properly. Impact loading activities like running, jumping and extreme positions like squatting for Indian toilet are best avoided.
- The quality and design of the joint used by the surgeon also matter. We always insist on using a standard design with a 25-30 years proven track record.
Q: “How long will I have to stay in the hospital? What will be my schedule after the surgery?”
A: Majority of the patients are made to walk with support on the third post-operative day barring those who have other joints affected. Patients are discharged as soon as they are able to climb stairs, which is generally in the second week (presuming an uneventful post-operative regime). They walk with elbow crutche, which are kept for six weeks after the operation. Remember that the purpose of this operation is to make you independent and give a pain free, mobile existence without any support and getting back to normal activities of your daily routine.
Our team members will call you and will train you so that your gait balance returns to near normal. This critical surveillance will go on for at least a year after the surgery. Thereafter your visits will be on a yearly basis or whenever we wish to see you.
Q: How soon following total knee replacement should I be able to progress to walking independently?
A: The speed with which a person is able to discontinue the use of crutches, walker or cane varies from individual to individual. The majority of people require only a cane after six weeks, although others may need more time to progress and soon after become independent of any assistive device.
Q: How soon can one drive again after total knee replacement?
A: It is generally recommended not to drive for six weeks following total knee replacement However, if good knee control is achieved some may be able to return earlier. The surgeon will determine the appropriate time.
Q: What is a bilateral total knee replacement?
A: When both knees are replaced at the same time, the procedure is a bilateral total knee replacement. The simultaneous procedure refers to replacing both knees during one surgical event, under one anesthesia followed by a single rehabilitation period. A staged surgical procedure means that the second knee is replaced at a later period several months apart, requiring two separate hospital stays, anesthesias, and rehabilitation periods.
Q: If I have one knee replaced does this indicate I will definitely be in need of replacing the other?
A: No. Often only one knee is affected and the other completely normal. Sometimes the other knee is also affected either as severely or not as badly. The surgeon can inform you of the likelihood if the other knee will need to be replaced in the future.
Q: Will I loose a great deal of motion if I discontinue my exercise program given to me in physical therapy?
A: How high at risk you are for losing range of motion will depend how active you are with your new knee. If you are relatively active with bending and straightening you probably will not lose a significant amount if any. However, if you lead a sedentary lifestyle it is best to continue with all of the flexibility and strengthening exercises at least 3 times per week to maintain range of motion and strength.
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