Your doctor

Before undergoing your total hip replacement, your doctor will prescribe a complete physical examination to assess your condition and to ensure that there are no factors that could interfere with your operation.

Tests
Your doctor may ask you for blood and urine tests and possibly a cardiogram, prior to your surgery.

Check yourself

CHECK YOUR SKIN 
If your hip and l​eg have any skin infections or irritation, contact your orthopaedic surgeon prior to surgery: he or she will tell you how best to prepare your skin for surgery.
 

CHECK YOUR TEETH
The incidence of infection after hip replacement is very low, but even an infection far from the hip joint can spread through the bloodstream to the new hip. Prevention is the best way to avoid early problems. Therefore, you should contact your dentist to have your teeth checked before your total hip replacement surgery.

Medications

Prior to surgery, provide your surgeon with a complete list of the medications you are taking including doses and times. He or she will inform you if you need to stop or change any medication.

Special equipment

After the intervention special equipment, such as support stockings and crutches, maybe needed: you can rent or buy them from specialized shops.
Check with your physiotherapist.  

Arrange for help

  • You will not be able to drive for at least two weeks after your surgery.
  • Make arrangements to have someone stay with you, if needed, for the first 24 hours.
  • Have family or friends available to assist you once you’re home.

 

Reduce your risk of a fall

  • Remove any throw rugs.
  • Tack down any loose carpeting so walking will be safer.
  • Look around the room for other hazards and remove them.
  • Wear shoes with non-slip soles (not house slippers).
  • Make sure you have a supportive, comfortable chair.