Preparing for hip surgery - I'm going to have surgery!

Preoperative consultation with the surgeon

Pre-operative consultation is the first step in preparing for hip surgery. It makes it possible to assess the general condition of the patient, to make a precise diagnosis, to possibly plan an intervention as well as to answer any questions.

Explanation of the procedure

The surgeon will explain the surgical procedure, potential risks, and expected benefits in detail. The patient will be able to ask questions and express concerns to ensure that they fully understand how the procedure is going.

Medical preparation before surgery

Medical preparation prior to surgery is an essential step in ensuring patient safety during surgery. A consultation with an anesthetist from our team allows us to discuss the type of anesthesia as well as the management of possible pathologies. This anesthesia may be general or spinal anesthesia (only the lower extremities are asleep) depending on your choice, your history and decided during the preoperative consultation with the anesthetist.

Les patients ayant des antécédents comme le diabète ou les maladies cardiaques, peuvent être tenus de consulter en parallèle des spécialistes dans ces domaines afin s’assurer leur capacité à subir une intervention chirurgicale.
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Les patients qui tombent malades (par exemple, rhume, grippe, fièvre, poussée d’herpès) dans les jours précédant une intervention chirurgicale doivent le signaler à leur médecin.

Discussion of medical history

The patient should discuss their medical history with the surgeon, including allergies, current medications, and previous surgeries. This information is crucial for planning surgery safely.

Taking medication

The patient should follow the instructions for taking medication prior to surgery. This may include stopping certain medications, such as blood thinners, several days before surgery.

Some medications are more at risk, including:

Aspirin, NSAIDs (for example: Advil, Ibuprofen, Ketoprofen...) and other medications that make it more difficult for blood to clot.

Corticosteroids and other medications that decrease the immune system and may therefore increase the risk of post-surgical infection.

Anticoagulants (Previscan, Coumadine, Xarelto, Arixtra...) Analgesic premedication will be prescribed on a case-by-case basis by the attending physician or anesthetists. As part of the prevention of anemia (low red blood cells), anesthetists, depending on the preoperative assessment, may ask you to take certain supplements and medications, such as iron supplements.
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La prémédication antalgique sera prescrite au cas par cas par le médecin traitant ou les anesthésistes.

Dans le cadre de la prévention de l’anémie (baisse des globules rouges), les médecins anesthésistes, en fonction du bilan préopératoire, pourront vous demander de prendre certains suppléments et médicaments, tels que des suppléments de fer.

Blood test

A biological check-up will be prescribed before the intervention. It must be brought when the anaesthetist is examined.

Preoperative fasting

Preoperative fasting is generally required. The patient should abstain from eating and drinking for a certain period of time prior to surgery, often starting at midnight the day before the procedure.

Preoperative hygiene

Adhering to preoperative hygiene guidelines, such as an antiseptic shower, is essential to reduce the risk of infection. The surgeon will provide specific instructions to follow.

Physical preparation

Physical preparation prior to hip surgery can improve post-operative outcomes and facilitate recovery.

Exercise and muscle building

Exercising and strengthening the muscles around the hip prior to surgery may help improve recovery. Specific exercises may be recommended by a physical therapist to strengthen the quadriceps, hamstrings, and gluteal muscles.

Weight loss

Losing weight can reduce pressure on the hip joint, which can improve the results of surgery. A balanced diet and an appropriate exercise program can help the patient reach a healthy weight prior to surgery.

Quitting smoking

Quitting smoking before surgery is highly recommended as tobacco can increase the risk of complications, including infections and wound healing problems. Nicotine consumption affects blood flow. We recommend stopping at least 2 weeks before and 6 weeks after the operation.

The doctor can provide resources and advice to help the patient quit smoking.

If you need help, contact the secretariat of theTobacco Cessation Assistance Coordination Unit At 05-67-77-17-43. https://www.chu-toulouse.fr/-ucast -

Alcohol consumption

Excessive alcohol consumption significantly increases the risk of postoperative complications such as massive bleeding and infections. Regular alcohol consumption has a negative impact on the immune response.

Mental and emotional preparation

Mental and emotional preparation is just as important as physical preparation for hip surgery.

Stress Management

Surgery can be a source of stress and anxiety. Relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, and yoga can help manage stress prior to surgery.

Social support

Strong social support is crucial for good preparation. Friends and family can offer emotional and practical support, such as helping arrange transportation and care after surgery.

Information and education

Being well-informed and educated about the procedure and the recovery process can help reduce anxiety. The patient should read the materials provided by the surgeon and participate in information sessions if available.

Preparing provisions

Preparing groceries and meals in advance can make the post-operative period easier. It is advisable to store foods that are easy to prepare and to ensure that all the necessary medications are available.

Digital tracking

Orthense is a medical application that will support you throughout your journey, from the pre-operative phase to the preoperative consultation and throughout the postoperative follow-up. It allows a continuous link with our teams and personalized support to help you resume your current activities.

Vos réponses sont capitales. En répondant à plusieurs questionnaires envoyés par votre chirurgien à des dates clés, l’application permettra de répondre à vos questions, d’évaluer vos progrès et de vous rassurer. Ce site est accessible sous tous les supports (smartphone, tablette, ordinateur).

Elle est consultable par le chirurgien, qui a accès en temps réel à vos résultats et votre progression. En cas d’évolution défavorable, le chirurgien en sera directement informé et pourra interagir avec vous via l’application.

Conclusion

Preparing for hip surgery is an essential step in ensuring the success of the procedure and optimal recovery. By following the tips and steps outlined, patients can reduce the risks of complications and improve their post-operative outcomes.

Prof. Nicolas Reina and his team are dedicated to providing comprehensive care and guiding patients throughout their surgical journey. For more information or to schedule a consultation, please contact us.