Are you planning on undergoing orthopedic surgery? Whether it’s a hip replacement or a knee surgery, here are some tips on how to prepare for your procedure to ensure the safest and most satisfactory results.
Orthopedic surgery refers to a wide range of surgical procedures that are designed to prevent, diagnose, and treat disorders of the bone, joints, ligaments, tendons and muscles. At our Kelowna private hospital, we focus on three key areas of orthopedic surgery, including shoulder, knee, and foot/ankle surgery.
Whether you are undergoing a hip replacement or a knee arthroscopy, surgery can help:
- Relieve any pain or discomfort
- Increase function
- Improve your quality of life
- Give you a better range of motion
In most cases, orthopedic surgery is used as a last resort, after other treatment options, such as medication and physiotherapy, have failed to improve your condition. During a consultation, your surgeon can help determine if this is the right step for you.
Customized Orthopedic Surgery Treatments at Our Kelowna Private Hospital
At our Kelowna private hospital, our team of board-certified orthopedic surgeons offer a range of orthopedic surgeries, including hip replacement surgery and knee arthroscopy, to minimize any pain and help you live a healthier and more fulfilling life.
We also offer a range of cosmetic surgery treatments through our board-certified plastic surgeons, such as facial surgery and body contouring procedures, to help you achieve all your aesthetic goals.
Want to know more?
CONTACT OUR KELOWNA PLASTIC SURGEONS
How to Prepare for Orthopedic Surgery
Are you feeling a little nervous or uncertain about your upcoming orthopedic surgery? Working with a board-certified orthopedic surgeon can ensure that your experience is a safe and positive one.
However, it’s also important to know what to expect from your upcoming treatment, and the steps you need to take before and after the procedure, to ensure the best results. Here are some tips on how to prepare for your upcoming orthopedic surgery:
Book a Consultation
Prior to any surgery, it is critical that you book a consultation with your surgeon. During this appointment, you can discuss any of your concerns and goals, and any important aspects of the procedure, such as:
- Expected outcomes
- Risks and benefits of the treatment
- Aftercare needs
- Time frames
During this appointment, don’t be afraid to ask questions! You should understand the procedure fully, know any potential risks, and understand what you can do to improve the results before going into surgery.
Getting Ready for Orthopedic Surgery
While one of the most important aspects of a successful orthopedic surgery is choosing a board-certified and experienced orthopedic surgeon, there are several other factors that can impact the outcome of your procedure.
If you have an upcoming surgery, you should:
- Quit smoking. If you smoke, it is imperative that you stop prior to your treatment. This is because smoking can increase your surgical risk, delay healing, and prolong the recovery time. Talk to your surgeon beforehand about timings and cessation tips.
- Follow a healthy diet. Healing from surgery requires a healthy body, so prior to your surgery, make sure you are following a balanced diet that includes plenty of nutrients. Look for foods that are rich in protein, Vitamin C, and iron, and make sure to stay hydrated.
- Exercise. A regular exercise routine of walking, cycling, or any other activity a few times a week can help prepare your body for an upcoming surgery and any therapies that will follow. Talk to your aftercare physical therapist prior to your procedure to discuss what types of exercise will be most helpful in preparing for your recovery. (4 Reasons You Should Work With a Physical Therapist After Orthopedic Surgery >)
Day of Your Surgery
Prior to your procedure, you will be given important instructions that you will need to fully understand and follow. Some examples of what you might be asked to do include:
- Do not drink alcohol or smoke the day before your surgery
- Wear comfortable clothing, no makeup, and no jewellery
- Make arrangements for a family member or friend to drive you home after the procedure
- Following the surgery, you will need someone at home with you for at least 24 hours
- After midnight before your surgery, do not eat or drink anything
If you are unclear about any instructions given to you, make sure to discuss this with your orthopedic surgeon, so you are certain about what right steps to take to ensure the safest procedure.
After Surgery
During the recovery process, you can take control of your own care. Because of this, the patient typically affects the outcome and results of the procedure. Here are some tips on how to maximize your recovery following your surgery:
- Move safely. When you are recovering from surgery, you must follow the advice your surgeon has given you. Only move the surgery site as recommended by your doctor, and stand/walk only when your surgeon has told you it is safe to do so. Whenever you are moving, be sure to stay consistent with your exercises.
- Eat nutritious foods. Foods that are rich in protein, such as lean meat and eggs, can help you recover from orthopedic surgery by supporting your musculoskeletal system. Avoid foods that are processed or high in sugar.
- Always ask for help. When you are recovering, you will not be able to perform certain daily activities and you will require assistance from others in order to accomplish some daily goals, such as moving to and from the bathroom or cooking food. Never feel guilty asking for help when you are recovering from surgery.
- Rest when you are tired. Resting will help your body recover and repair, so make sure to do so whenever your body tells you to. However, you also want to be sure that you are still moving your body during the daytime, safely and as instructed by your surgeon, as this can promote blood flow and encourage healing.
To regain your movement, balance, and coordination as quickly as possible, you should follow the instructions given to you by your surgeon and team of doctors. That way, you will prevent any injuries or damage that could occur if you try to return to activity too fast or engage in the wrong movements.
Contact Us
To find out more about the costs, benefits, and risks of orthopedic surgery, or to learn how our team of board-certified orthopedic surgeons can help you regain function and minimize any pain in your body, contact us at 250-868-9799 or fill in our online contact form.
