FAQ
Below are brief answers to some frequently asked questions about joint surgery. If you have other questions, write these down and ask your consultant general practitioner.
Q: Will I be able to get back to normal after joint surgery?
Most people who undergo joint surgery experience a dramatic reduction of pain and a significant improvement in their ability to perform the normal activities of daily living. However surgery will not enable you to do more than you could before your problem developed and you may be advised to avoid certain activities, such as high-impact sports. You may also be asked to avoid specific positions of the joint.
Q: Who is suitable for joint replacement surgery?
Patients may be considered for joint replacement surgery if joint pain and stiffness limits their everyday activities, pain continues while resting, either day or night, little pain relief is gained from anti-inflammatory drugs, and other treatments such as physical therapy or the use of a gait aid (such as a walking stick) do not relieve the pain.
Q: When should I have surgery?
Your surgeon will evaluate your health history, carry out a physical examination, and may request X-rays or other diagnostic tests to decide if you are a candidate for surgery. You must then decide if your discomfort, pain or stiffness, and overall loss of quality of life justify undergoing surgery. Generally, there is no harm in waiting to have surgery if conservative, non-surgical treatments are effective.
Q: What can I do to prepare myself for surgery?
It is sensible to get as fit as you can before surgery, although this may be limited by your medical condition itself. If possible, stop smoking at least 6 weeks before surgery and cut down on alcohol to no more than the recommended limits. If you are having a joint replacement, consider taking extra iron in the form of ferrous sulphate, 200 milligrams twice daily, for up to four weeks beforehand – this can help prevent post-operative anaemia.
Q: What will I need to do after the operation?
You will be given detailed instructions on post-operative rehabilitation by your surgeon and a physiotherapist during your hospital stay. This will cover any physiotherapy you may need, as well as further outpatient visits, etc.
Q: Will I have any restrictions following my surgery?
Depending on the procedure you have carried out, you may be restricted from performing high-impact activities such as running and competitive sports. Hip patients may be restricted from crossing their legs or bending their hips more than 90° for a period after surgery.
Q: How quickly will I recover from surgery?
Your recovery will depend on the type of surgery you have and how well you follow your orthopaedic surgeon’s instructions regarding home care during the first few weeks after surgery. Good care of your wound is important until it has thoroughly sealed and dried. A balanced diet, often with an iron supplement, is important to promote proper tissue healing and restore muscle strength. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids. Exercise is a critical component of home care, particularly during the first few weeks after surgery. Some initial discomfort with activity and at night is common.
Q: When will I be able to return to work?
This depends on the type of surgery and also on your type of work. Office workers may return to work more quickly than those with strenuous jobs. The timing of your return to work depends considerably upon your commitment to recovery.
Q: How long do joint replacement implants last?
Even with normal use and activities, an artificial joint develops some wear over time. If you participate in high-impact activities or are overweight, this wear may accelerate and cause the prosthesis to loosen and become painful earlier than would otherwise be the case.
Q: How can I find out more about joint surgery?
For more information about joint surgery, there are a number of useful websites you can visit, including:
British Orthopaedic Association – www.boa.ac.uk
Minimal Invasive Hip – www.minimalinvasivehip.com
The Knee Clinic – www.thekneeclinic.org.uk
Midlands Upper Limb Surgery – www.midlandsupperlimbsurgery.co.uk
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons – www.orthoinfo.aaos.org
Arthritis Research Council – www.arc.org.uk
Federation of Independent Practitioner Organisations (private insurance) – www.fipo.org.uk/docs/patients/uk_insurance.htm
