What is the typical hospital stay following hip or knee
joint replacement surgery?
joint replacement surgery?
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The duration of the hospital stay averages about three or four days. The surgery
can last on average about one and a half hours and a blood transfusion may be
needed (commonly from patient, family member, or friend with matching blood
type). Regular around the clock pain medicines are provided to minimize
discomfort. Antibiotics are also administered for one day to help minimize the
chance of infection. Frequently beginning one day after the surgery, a medication (a
“blood thinner”) to help prevent blood clots is also given.
Mobility, walking, and full weight on the affected leg are encouraged the same
day of or the day after surgery with assistance from physical therapy. Occupational
therapy also is involved as needed to assist with adaptive activities of daily living.
Knee replacement patients use a brace (knee immobilizer) while in bed at night. Hip
replacement patients follow certain precautions to prevent dislocation. Once
physical independence with mobility is reached and pain control is satisfactory with
pain pills then a patient is discharged home frequently with visits from home health.
Occasionally further rehabilitation is needed in an extended care facility.
can last on average about one and a half hours and a blood transfusion may be
needed (commonly from patient, family member, or friend with matching blood
type). Regular around the clock pain medicines are provided to minimize
discomfort. Antibiotics are also administered for one day to help minimize the
chance of infection. Frequently beginning one day after the surgery, a medication (a
“blood thinner”) to help prevent blood clots is also given.
Mobility, walking, and full weight on the affected leg are encouraged the same
day of or the day after surgery with assistance from physical therapy. Occupational
therapy also is involved as needed to assist with adaptive activities of daily living.
Knee replacement patients use a brace (knee immobilizer) while in bed at night. Hip
replacement patients follow certain precautions to prevent dislocation. Once
physical independence with mobility is reached and pain control is satisfactory with
pain pills then a patient is discharged home frequently with visits from home health.
Occasionally further rehabilitation is needed in an extended care facility.
| Juan C. Frisancho, M.D. Orthopedic Surgery Joint Replacement |
