What's Involved in Your Joint Replacement?
People who have chosen joint replacements are a motivated group. If you're like most, you'll be in the hospital just three days. While this may sound fast, your recuperation from surgery will occur rapidly. All you need to do is follow the instructions of your team. From the time you make your decision to undergo surgery, we'll be with you every step of the way.
Education
An education booklet isavailable from your physician. We also encourage you to attend the Total Joint Replacement Clinic prior to your surgery. This two-hour seminar is a chance for you to meet members of your orthopedic team to discuss various details of your joint replacement. Take this opportunity to ask them any and all questions you may have. We invite you to bring a reliable friend or family member who can be your “coach.” He or she will encourage and motivate you prior to surgery, during your hospital stay, and throughout your recovery and rehabilitation at home. At the seminar, you'll learn how to prepare your home, what to expect during your hospital stay, and what precautions you'll need to take after your surgery.
Preadmission testing
You'll complete paperwork and undergo lab tests prior to your admission in order to streamline your hospital stay.
Surgery
Led by your board-certified orthopedic surgeon, your specially trained joint replacement team will operate in a state-of-the-art surgical suite outfitted specifically for orthopedic procedures. While the joint replacement itself usually lasts two to four hours, the entire process, including anesthesia and recovery, may last most of the day. Once you're in your hospital room, your team will monitor your progress and make you comfortable.
Rehabilitation and recovery
You'll be amazed at how soon you'll be moving after your surgery. With the help of St. John Macomb-Oakland Macomb Center's physical therapists, occupational therapists, and nurses, you'll begin rehabilitation in your bed on the day of your surgery. By day three, you'll be walking and visiting the bathroom on your own. Once you're home, you'll continue daily therapy. Although therapists will monitor your progress, we expect you to exercise at home on your own every day.
Patient and caregiver support
A joint replacement will cause big changes in your lifestyle. Our social work team is available to provide you and your family support and counseling along the way. If needed, they'll also help you with home care needs.
Discharge planning
We want to make your return home as smooth as possible. Our discharge planners will help you with insurance issues and equipment needs.
