If you’ve learned you need replacement surgery, you likely know others who have gone through it. It’s one of the most frequently performed orthopedic surgeries, and as many as 760,000 of these procedures are performed each year.
Though patients entrust their care to their surgeon, there are things you can do to ensure that your hip replacement surgery is as successful as possible — and your recovery is smooth and rapid.
Dr. Vasilios Mathews not only has extensive experience with multiple types of hip replacement surgery, but he’s also dedicated to communicating closely with his patients so they can get their questions and concerns addressed and enjoy an optimal recovery.
Dr. Mathews is your partner in care, no matter what orthopedic procedure you need.
We noted the number of hip replacement surgeries occurring in the United States today, but procedures vary depending on a patient’s unique needs and situation.
To resolve your hip pain and mobility issues, Dr. Mathews removes damaged or diseased tissue and replaces it with a prosthetic. He may opt to:
He’s also familiar with surgical methods that can spare muscle and conserve bone, so you don’t have anything done that he doesn’t deem completely necessary.
Patients can rest assured, too, that if they’ve experienced failed hip replacement surgery, Dr. Mathews has performed countless reparative revision surgeries.
When you consult with Dr. Mathews, he can help you by providing education and advice on preparing for and recovering from your surgery — and what you can do to set yourself up for success.
Pre-surgery, get your house in order — literally and figuratively. This means:
Good surgery preparation impacts recovery:
It’s also wise to talk to your doctor about any medications you should stop taking before surgery and prepare a medical directive if you haven’t already.
Arrange for transportation to and from the hospital.
Finally, eat a nutrient-dense diet before surgery (and after), and if you smoke, look into a cessation program, as smoking hinders healing.
After surgery, it’s good to start moving as soon as possible.
At the same time, you must also be clear about what movements are restricted and avoid them.
Have a thorough discussion with Dr. Mathews about post-surgical pain management and how you can organize your medication schedule effectively. Your medications will not only ease pain but also help prevent infection and minimize inflammation.
Don’t feel embarrassed about getting a cane, walker, or other device to help you move about as you recover. They not only help you move, but they also lessen the strain on your hip when you ambulate.
Physical therapy is critical as you heal from hip replacement surgery (and before it) and helps you develop muscle strength and coordination while you’re also improving your range of motion.
Your body is getting used to its new parts, and PT helps with this.
Icing your hip, elevating your leg when you lie down, and taking your pain medication when you should are all ways to stay ahead of your pain.
If your pain gets to a level of 6 or beyond, don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Mathews.
Open communication with Dr. Mathews — before and after surgery — is essential. There are lots of moving parts when it comes to successful hip replacement surgery preparation and recovery (in addition to the actual moving parts in your new hip!), so contact Dr. Mathews when any concern arises, or you feel uncertain about anything. He welcomes it.
By doing all you can to get ready for your hip replacement surgery and engage in the best self-care afterwards, you’re supporting the goal that both you and Dr. Mathews have set — moving well and being pain-free so you can thrive.
Contact Dr. Mathews’ conveniently located Houston office at 713-794-3548 to schedule a consultation about hip replacement surgery, or book one online.
