Discharge Instructions for Hip Replacement

Thank you for entrusting your care to us. My philosophy is that successful surgery involves a complete team including a caring, competent surgeon with his assistants and equally important a well-educated, motivated patient. Below are some instructions and questions that relate directly to proper care and expectations after a hip replacement surgery.

  • Plan to return to my clinic in 10 to 14 days for follow-up evaluation and removal of sutures. (435) 628-9393, be sure and specify “surgical follow-up with Dr. Anderson”. If need be ask for “Julie”and she will take care of you.
  • Keep a dry dressing over the wound, changing it if necessary. You will be instructed on this prior to discharge from the hospital. Do not apply any antibacterial creams, salves, or ointments to the wound for five weeks following surgery.
  • Use either a walker or crutches for the first 4 to 6 weeks following surgery. Likely your pain will diminish and at some point you will feel that you do not need to have the added assistance however using the walker or crutches will ultimately give you a better long-term result (trust me on this one).
  • You may shower after five days and it is okay for the incision to get wet but do not scrub or soak the incision. A shower chair is actually very helpful in the first couple of weeks following surgery. Do not use a hot tub or bathtub for 4 weeks, no soaking of the incision.
  • Pain medications are prescribed post operatively and are recommended to help with the pain. Minimizing the use of narcotics when possible is strongly recommended. Narcotics are associated with nausea, dizziness, constipation, and depression. Alternative means such as ice and nonnarcotic medication (Tramadol, Tylenol) may be a valuable substitute.
  • You should not drive for 6 weeks following your hip replacement and if you are taking any narcotic medications you should not be driving.
  • Some form of Blood Clot Prevention (DVT Prophylaxis) is used following Total Hip Replacement. Usually 325 mg of aspirin twice per day used unless other methods are indicated. Being up and walking at least 3 times per day is also very important in preventing blood clots. If you develop shortness of breath, chest pain, or calf pain and swelling go immediately to the emergency room.
  • If you have any of the following, call our office to be seen or if that is not possible go to the emergency room:
    • Increasing redness or drainage from the wound
    • Increasing pain despite taking the pain medication
    • Temperature above 101 degrees Fahrenheit
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