An Insider's Guide to Orthopedic Surgery

1. Prepare Thoroughly: Understanding Your Surgery and Recovery

What you learn will build your confidence, decrease the apprehension you may feel about your impending surgery, and help you navigate this challenging experience with greater ease and control.

Knowledge is power. Understanding your specific surgery, including the anatomy involved, the procedure itself, and what to expect during recovery, can significantly reduce anxiety and improve outcomes. Familiarize yourself with:

• Types of joint replacements or spine surgeries
• Basic anatomy of the affected area
• Expected length of hospital stay
• Precautions and movement restrictions post-surgery
• Home safety modifications needed
• Early exercises and activities recommended

Pre-surgery preparation. Take proactive steps to optimize your health and home environment:

• Attend pre-operative education classes if offered
• Practice using assistive devices (walker, crutches) before surgery
• Prepare your home by removing tripping hazards and installing safety equipment
• Start a pre-surgery exercise program to improve strength and flexibility

2. Choose Your Surgeon Wisely and Communicate Openly

I would prefer a surgeon who has a great track record and performs more than three hundred knee replacements annually over one who performs thirty.

Surgeon selection criteria. When choosing a surgeon, consider:

• Experience and specialization in your specific procedure
• Volume of surgeries performed annually
• Patient outcomes and complication rates
• Hospital affiliation and quality ratings
• Communication style and willingness to answer questions

Open communication. Establish a rapport with your surgeon and healthcare team:

• Prepare a list of questions for your pre-operative appointments
• Discuss your goals, concerns, and medical history openly
• Be honest about lifestyle habits, medications, and any substance use
• Ask about the surgeon's preferred communication methods for post-operative care

3. Set Up Your Home and Support System for Post-Surgery Care

The first two weeks after a major orthopedic surgery aren't exactly a picnic, unless your picnic includes fire ants and three-legged races in the living room.

Home preparation. Create a safe and comfortable environment for recovery:

• Rearrange furniture to accommodate mobility aids
• Install grab bars in bathrooms and on stairs
• Prepare a recovery area on the main floor if possible
• Stock up on easy-to-prepare meals and necessary supplies

Support system. Arrange for help during the initial recovery period:

• Identify a primary caregiver for the first few days or weeks
• Schedule visits from friends or family members
• Arrange for transportation to follow-up appointments
• Consider hiring professional home care if needed

4. Navigate Hospital Culture and Advocate for Your Needs

Rest assured that most nurses and other clinicians have been grilled about appropriate and inappropriate behaviors toward patients. But what about your behavior toward them? How should you relate to them during your experience? What are your responsibilities?

Hospital etiquette. Understand your role as a patient:

• Communicate clearly and respectfully with all staff members
• Ask questions when you don't understand something
• Follow instructions and safety precautions
• Use the call button appropriately
• Be patient and understanding of staff constraints

Self-advocacy. Take an active role in your care:

• Keep track of your medications and pain levels
• Speak up if you're uncomfortable or in pain
• Ask for help when needed
• Understand your discharge plan and follow-up care instructions

5. Manage Pain Effectively with a Multimodal Approach

Pain is your body's normal response to an injury, and surgery is injurious.

Understanding pain. Recognize that some pain is normal and part of the healing process:

• Use the pain scale to communicate effectively with healthcare providers
• Understand the difference between acute surgical pain and chronic pain
• Be aware of the emotional and psychological aspects of pain

Multimodal pain management. Work with your healthcare team to develop a comprehensive pain management plan:

• Medications: Opioids, NSAIDs, acetaminophen, and nerve pain medications
• Non-pharmacological approaches: Ice, elevation, positioning, and relaxation techniques
• Early mobilization and gentle exercises as recommended by your therapist

6. Embrace Early Mobility and Rehabilitation

Rehab starts now.

Early mobility benefits. Understand the importance of getting moving as soon as possible:

• Reduces risk of blood clots and other complications
• Improves circulation and promotes healing
• Prevents muscle weakness and joint stiffness
• Boosts mental well-being and confidence

Rehabilitation process. Commit to your recovery:

• Follow your physical therapist's instructions carefully
• Perform prescribed exercises consistently
• Gradually increase activity levels as advised
• Be patient with your progress and celebrate small victories

7. Plan for Long-Term Recovery and Return to Activities

You will be able to return to sports.

Realistic expectations. Understand that full recovery takes time:

• Most joint replacements take 3-6 months for basic recovery
• Continued improvement can occur for up to 1-2 years
• Set realistic goals based on your pre-surgery condition and surgeon's guidance

Returning to activities. Work with your healthcare team to safely resume normal activities:

• Driving: Usually allowed 4-6 weeks post-surgery, depending on the procedure
• Work: Return time varies based on job requirements (2-12 weeks)
• Sports: Most low-impact activities can be resumed within 3-6 months
• High-impact activities may need to be modified or avoided long-term

Long-term care. Protect your investment in your health:

• Maintain a healthy weight
• Continue with regular exercise and stretching
• Attend follow-up appointments as scheduled
• Be aware of signs that may indicate problems with your implant or fusion

Last updated: August 10, 2024