Here Einstein offers answers to common questions about hip and knee replacement. Click a topic below to learn more.
Hip replacement
Knee replacement
Hip Replacement
What is total hip replacement?
Total hip replacement surgery means replacing the painful parts of the damaged hip with an artificial part called a prosthesis.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, some 200,000 artificial hip joints are implanted annually in the United States;
the success rate is greater than 90 percent.
What do I need to know before having hip replacement surgery?
Your surgeon may ask you to have a physical exam by your primary care physician. You should finish any dental work you have
underway to prevent germs in your mouth from entering the bloodstream and infecting the new joint. If you prefer, or if your
surgeon feels it is needed, you may want to donate your own blood ahead of time to reduce the risk of your body reacting to
the blood transfusion that will take place during surgery.
How long does hip replacement surgery take?
The surgery usually takes one to two hours.
What happens during hip replacement surgery?
On the day of surgery, an intravenous tube will be inserted into your arm to give you necessary medications and fluids during
surgery. You will then be taken to the operating room and given anesthesia.
In the operating room, a urinary catheter will be inserted and left in place for one to two days. Compression stockings and
pneumatic sleeves (boots) will be put on both legs to improve your circulation and help prevent blood clots.
The procedure is performed through an incision over the side of the hip. The ball end of the thighbone (femur) is cut and
replaced with the new metal ball and stem component. It may be stabilized with or without cement. The damaged surface of the
socket is smoothed in preparation for the insertion of the new socket. The ball and socket are then joined.
When the surgeon is satisfied with the fit and function, the incision will be closed and covered with dressings. You will
also find small drainage tubes coming out of the hip to drain fluid from the wound.
How long am I going to be in the hospital?
The length of stay varies, but most people are in the hospital two to three days. After the hospital stay, most patients are
transferred from the hospital to a rehab center where they receive more intensive physical and occupational therapy. Other
patients are sent directly home, with home or outpatient physical therapy. Patients are usually discharged from rehab when
they can get into and out of bed by themselves and walk safely with crutches or a walker.
What can I expect after hip replacement surgery?
Your surgeon will recommend a rehabilitation program to help strengthen the muscles around your new hip. Usually within 24
hours after the surgery, your physical therapist will help you start walking a few steps at a time. As you heal, you might
need the assistance of a walker, crutches and/or a cane.
Before you leave the hospital, an occupational therapist will show you how to perform routine tasks with your new hip, such
as how to pick up objects.
About two to four days after surgery, you may be discharged. You will need to continue to take your regular medications and
continue exercising as directed by your surgeon or physical therapist. Walking, remaining active and practicing the required
exercises are the quickest ways to a full recovery.
How long will my replacement hip last?
In most cases, today’s artificial hips can last the life of the patient. The expectation with total hip replacement is that
the replaced joint will last at least 10 to 15 years.
Knee Replacement
Do I need to stop taking any of my medications before the surgery?
Be sure to tell your doctor all the medications that you take regularly. Talk to your doctor if you are taking aspirin or
any other blood-thinning medication. Most of your regular medications will be started after your surgery except aspirin or
anti-inflammatory medications.
Do I need to donate blood for total knee surgery?
Your surgeon may recommend that you donate two units of your own blood prior or that you take an iron supplement prior to
the surgery.
How long does total knee replacement surgery take?
The surgical procedure takes about one to two hours. After the surgery, you will be in the recovery room for another one to
two hours before returning to your room.
How will my pain be controlled after the surgery?
Immediately after surgery, your pain will be managed either through an epidural block or with intravenous medication using
a device that allows you to safely control the amount of medication you receive. A few days into your hospital stay, you will
begin taking oral pain medications instead, which you’ll get a prescription for when you’re discharged.
How long does knee surgery recovery take?
Most patients are transferred to inpatient rehab two to three days after surgery. A walker is used for three to six weeks.
Resting, using ice packs and elevating your leg can help speed recovery. Physical therapy is required for all patients. The
entire process of recovery can last two to three months.
When will I be able to walk following the operation?
You will get out of bed the day after surgery and will take a few steps using a walker. A physical therapist will help you.
You will be allowed to bear as much weight as is comfortable for you. If you are more comfortable with crutches, you will
be shown how to use them before leaving the hospital. While in the hospital, you will be using a machine that continuously
moves your knee while you are in bed.
How long will I have to wait before I can drive again?
Most patients are able to drive six weeks following the operation. If you feel you may be ready to drive sooner than six weeks,
ask your doctor.
How long will my replacement knee last?
Total knee replacements are designed to provide painless and unlimited standing, sitting, walking and other activities of
normal daily living. The average implant longevity is 12 to 15 years. For some patients, their total knee replacement will
last their lifetime. It all depends on your lifestyle and your amount of activity.
Reviewed for clinical accuracy by Anthony S. Puglisi, MD and John T. Williams Jr., M.
