Preparing for Surgery

Once you have decided to have a total hip replacement, Dr Kohan and his staff will guide you as you prepare for surgery.

You will be given education and guidance to help you prepare by Rebecca Cordingley (Dr Kohan's Assistant). Dr Kohan will order various tests depending on your medical history. Preparing mentally and physically is an important step towards a successful result.

When preparing for surgery, there are number of tasks to attend to. It is important to feel like you have enough information and education on the operation and follow up care. Please feel free to ask as many questions you want to.

Traditionally autologous blood (blood donated by the patient) has been used when a patient undergoes hip surgery. Autologous blood donation is a good way of providing blood for yourself, if it is required during surgery. The compression garment mentioned above needs to be fitted prior to surgery. This will be done, when you attend the office for education.

Important to remember:

Stop taking your non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medication, such as Aspirin, Brufen, Naprosyn, Voltaren, Feldene, and etc. 3 weeks before your surgery. Consult with Dr Kerr regarding taking your regular medications the morning of surgery. Especially heart, blood pressure, and diabetic medications. You may take them with a small sip of water.

Surgery preparation check list:

• Complete all paper work in the information pack.
• Make sure you have an X-ray of the effected hip.
• Make sure you have given Dr Kohan a complete medical history.
• Chest x-ray and ECG needs to be completed. This is usually done in hospital. q Donate blood for surgery (Autologous) usually completed over a three week period prior to the surgery date.
• The blood tests required
  1. Full blood count
  2. Autologous donation
  3. Cross match
• Complete all medical tests ordered by Dr Kohan.
• Cease taking Anti-inflammatory drugs 3 weeks prior to surgery.

You must make an appointment:

• 1 week prior to surgery to see Dr Kerr for an anaesthetic consultation.
• 1 week post-operation to see Rebecca for post-operative care.
• 3 weeks post-operation to see Dr Kohan for follow-up.

You will need someone able to assist you for the first few days at home. (If you do not have someone, please notify us as soon as possible), otherwise your surgery may be postponed until proper arrangements can be made.

Fasting

Four hours prior to your surgery, drink a glass of water. After this point do not eat or drink, i.e. do not eat or drink 4 hours prior to surgery.

Be sure that you have completed your pre-admission testing and medical clearance requirements as previously directed. Please read all the information carefully and completely. If you then still have any questions or concerns, please notify us.

Your Surgical Experience

On the day of surgery you will be expected to arrive at the hospital 2 - 3 hours prior to your scheduled surgery time. Many patients will be admitted the night before the surgery day. Call the hospital (9650 4000), the day before your surgery for your arrival time. Once admitted, the physiotherapist will come and see you, to measure you for crutches, walking frame or a cane. The physiotherapist will also provide you with education on how to use these aids.

The operation time can be adjusted on your operating day for various reasons. One of the staff will inform you if there has been a change in time. Your family is welcome to visit and stay with you prior to your surgery.

When it is time for surgery, a nurse will arrive to assist you to the surgical area. You will be put in a private area adjacent to the operating room. Here your details will be checked. When everything is ready, you will be taken to the operating room and greeted by the nurse and the Dr Kerr. The operating room must remain cold, but extra blankets are provided for you. You will see Dr Kohan, Dr Kerr, and Rebecca before your surgery. Everything will be done to make you as comfortable as possible.

How it works | Is it suitable for you? | What is involved? | Before the operation | After the operation | Results | Post-operative Hip Exercises | Hip FAQ | Home