Frequently Asked Questions
Patients have asked many questions about total knee and hip replacement. Below are a list of the most frequently asked questions along with their answers. If there are any other questions that you need answered, please ask your Surgeon or Rapid Recovery Coordinator. We want you to be completely informed about this procedure.
WHAT IS ARTHRITIS?
Arthritis is very common but is not well understood. Actually, “arthritis” is not a single disease; it is an informal way of referring to joint pain or joint disease. There are more than 100 different types of arthritis and related conditions. People of all ages, sexes and races can and do have arthritis, and it is the leading cause of disability in America.
WHAT IS A TOTAL HIP/KNEE REPLACEMENT?
A total hip replacement is a surgical procedure whereby the diseased cartilage and bone of the hip joint is surgically replaced with artificial materials.
WHAT ARE THE RESULTS OF TOTAL HIP/KNEE REPLACEMENT?
Success rates for knee replacement are also very high with 9 out of 10 people experiencing immediate pain relief and 95% reporting satisfaction with the procedure.
WHEN SHOULD I HAVE THIS TYPE OF SURGERY?
The most common diagnosis of the cause of knee pain prior to knee replacement is osteoarthritis. If you are prevented from carrying out your everyday activities due to pain or discomfort in the knee, then you may have arthritis of some kind
HOW LONG WILL MY NEW HIP/KNEE LAST?
A LIFTTIME...
WHAT ARE THE MAJOR RISKS?
Most complications can be treated successfully. Some of the more commoncomplications of joint replacement surgery include infection, blood clots, nerve injury, and prosthesis problems like loosening or dislocation.
SHOULD I EXERCISE BEFORE THE SURGERY
You might think exercise is the last thing someone should do if they need a new hip or knee. But getting stronger is often helpful, as long as the patient doesn't overdo it and gets a doctor's approval first.
WILL I NEED BLOOD?
CSI DOESN'T USE BLOOD TRANSFUSIONS
HOW LONG AM I INCAPACITATED?
DEPENDING ON THE INDIVIDUAL 3-4 DAYS
HOW LONG WILL I BE IN THE HOSPITAL?
DEPENDING ON THE INDIVIDUAL
WHAT IF I LIVE ALONE?
SEE CSI COORDINATORS
HOW DO I MAKE ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGERY?
