How serious is it having a joint replacement?
Having a joint replaced is a major operation. As with any major operation there are risks. Ask your surgeon for more details.
What problems could I have in hospital?
- Confusion This is quite common in the first few days after an operation. This is normally caused by a combination of the anesthetic and being in strange surroundings. It usually settles completely by the time you go home.
- Nausea or Feeling Sick This is a very common problem, especially in the first 3 days following surgery.
- Constipation This is usually caused by a change in routine, the medications and even the food. It can be resolved quite quickly if identified early. Therefore it is important that you let the nurses know if this happens or you feel you would be prone to being constipated.
- Loss of Appetite This is not uncommon and can last for several weeks after the operation. However, it is important that you eat healthily and take in enough fluids to aid your recovery.
Will I be pain free after the operation?
You may expect your new joint and wound to be quite painful for up to 12 weeks after your surgery. To help reduce this pain, the hospital may use several different forms of pain relieving techniques, such as; nerve blocks, oral pain medications, PCA (patient controlled analgesia), ice packs and leg exercises. The pain will steadily decrease over time as your body heals. Most people find that the pain is negligible by 3 months and some report a continual improvement of their pain up to one year after.
How long will I spend in hospital?
All patients recover at different rates. On average, patients go home within 5 days after having the operation. Due to ongoing improvements in patient care, hospital stays are getting shorter.
How successful is this operation?
In terms of reducing pain and increasing function significantly without complications, many studies have reported that almost all joint replacements have been successful.
How much movement will I have after my operation?
On average patients do lose some movement after surgery. However, the amount of bending required to do most activities of daily living is usually achieved. Some patients after their operation complain of a different type of stiffness and describe a sensation that their joint feels stiff particularly after sitting for a period of time or first thing in the morning. This feeling should go away with walking a few steps. This is quite a commonfeeling, it may eventually resolve or it may not, but it is not at all serious.
When will I be able to get back to work?
Your surgeon will advise you on the best time to return to work and will also help you formulate a plan for protecting your joint in the first few weeks back at work.
