Modern hip replacement surgery has low failure rates. The implants used in hip replacement surgery can withstand constant wear and tear for years. However, there are instances when the implant starts to fail, or other complications occur, compromising the stability of the joint. A revision or second hip replacement surgery aims to correct these issues, and it pays for you to know how to prepare for one.
Know the Causes and the Procedure
Revision surgery is required to fix or replace an implant when complications have occurred. Commonly, the implant material may have worn down, causing pain and difficulty in movement. If the device is unstable, it may cause frequent hip dislocations. Trauma can cause bone adjacent to the artificial joint to fracture, and bacteria may invade neighboring tissue and cause an infection.
Surgeons use revision surgery to address the root of these concerns. The general procedure is similar to a regular hip replacement. However, the process can take more time as the surgeon needs specialized tools to manipulate the implant into position. The new implant itself is more specialized to account for the damage to nearby tissue caused by the old artificial joint.
Plan For Your Recovery
You need to use foresight to prepare for recovery from hip replacement surgery. For instance, you may need assistance for the first few days after surgery, so talk to a friend or loved one who can support you. Recovery can take weeks, so account for the lengthy period when making professional work arrangements.
You will have limited mobility during the rehabilitation phase, so ensure that you can navigate your home easily. It’s a good idea to get assistive walking devices, such as crutches, and to start using them around the house to get used to them. It’s ideal to install aids such as handrails to help you climb stairs or use the bathroom.
Depending on your case, your doctor may require you to stay in a rehabilitation center after surgery. This facility will be prepared to handle the needs of patients recovering from hip surgery. Consult with your surgeon and discuss these plans in advance so that you can prepare.
Pay Attention to Your Health
A second hip replacement surgery will take longer, and it is more complex. Your health may not be the same as it was during your first hip replacement, and you may be less tolerant of long surgeries. Likewise, your health affects how quickly you can recover. Physical fitness can also reduce the risk of complications.
Starting now, live a healthier lifestyle. Eat a well-balanced diet to make sure that you’re getting all the required nutrients. Avoid smoking or drinking, both of which can slow down the healing process.
Exercise regularly to keep your cardiovascular system in good shape and perform strength training exercises to fortify your muscles and bones. Pay attention to upper body exercises, as you’ll be using your arms and shoulders more when using assistive devices.
Your doctor may conduct a physical examination and diagnostic tests before surgery to assess how well you’ll respond to anesthesia and how easily you’ll recover.
Compile Medical Information
To help medical professionals manage your surgery well, you need to give them accurate information about yourself. It’s best to compile all the information in a single source that you can quickly give to your doctors.
Aside from basic info such as age and gender, note any preexisting medical conditions and your medical history, like the details of your last hip surgery. Enumerate any medications that you’re regularly taking and any allergies or reactions to drugs or anesthesia.
Get Quality Orthopedic Care
Preparing for a second hip replacement surgery involves meticulous planning to help you adjust and recover post-surgery. You also need to improve your health and make it easy for medical professionals to access your information. Finally, you need to choose a healthcare facility that can adequately service your needs.
Based in Farmington Hills, Michigan, Tri County Orthopedics is here to provide high-quality and proactive healthcare to our valued patients. We use a professional and compassionate approach to establishing strong relationships with our patients. For inquiries, call us at (248) 474-5575 or use our online form to schedule an appointment.
