Your operation: before, during and after
Knowing what to expect makes surgery easier. This page covers the usual steps for hip and knee replacement at Nuffield Health Ipswich Hospital. I will tailor the advice to you.
Before your operation
- Pre-operative assessment: a nurse at the hospital checks your health, takes blood tests and swabs, and reviews your medicines, including any blood thinners.
- Get fit for surgery: keep active, do the exercises your physiotherapist gives you, and stop smoking if you smoke. Both help you recover faster.
- Prepare your home: clear trip hazards, put everyday items within easy reach and arrange help for the first week or two.
In hospital
Most people have a spinal anaesthetic, sometimes with sedation. Physiotherapists will help you walk on the day of surgery or the next morning, and teach you your exercises. You can go home when you are comfortable, walking safely with crutches or sticks, and managing stairs if you need to.
Recovery milestones
| When | What to expect |
|---|---|
| First 2 weeks | Walking with crutches, doing your exercises several times a day, wound check by your practice nurse |
| About 6 weeks | Follow-up with me; many people walk without crutches and can start driving |
| About 3 months | Most daily activities and many hobbies; heavier work may be possible |
| Up to 1 year | Continued improvement, especially after a knee replacement |
Get medical advice straight away if you notice:
- A wound that becomes red, hot or swollen, or leaks fluid
- A fever or feeling unwell
- Pain or swelling in your calf
- Chest pain or breathlessness: call 999
Call the hospital on 01473 279100, or NHS 111.
Common questions
When can I drive?
Usually after about 6 weeks, once you can safely make an emergency stop. Tell your insurer that you have had surgery.
When can I fly?
Short flights are usually fine after about 6 weeks. For long-haul flights, it is usually best to wait about 3 months because of the risk of blood clots. Please ask me about your own plans.
Will I be able to kneel after a knee replacement?
Kneeling will not damage your new knee, but many people find it uncomfortable. It often gets easier with time.
Will my joint replacement set off airport scanners?
It may. You do not need a card or letter; tell the security staff that you have a joint replacement.
Sources
Book a consultation
I see patients at Nuffield Health Ipswich Hospital. You can book online, or contact my secretary, Daniela Capaldo, who can also help with insurance and self-pay questions.