JOINT REPLACEMENT PROGRAM HIP AND KNEE JOINT REPLACEMENT GUIDE
CONTENTS JOINT REPLACEMENT SURGERY
1
LEADING UP TO YOUR SURGERY
3
THE DAY OF SURGERY
5
GOING INTO SURGERY
6
PAIN MANAGEMENT
7
POSTOPERATIVE CARE AND RECOVERY
9
WHAT TO EXPECT DAY BY DAY
10
REHABILITATION
11
GOING HOME
12
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW GOING FORWARD
13
LIFELONG PROTECTION AGAINST INFECTION
15
SURGERY INFORMATION TOTAL HIP REPLACEMENT SURGERY
16
WHAT TO EXPECT THE FIRST THREE DAYS AFTER TOTAL HIP REPLACEMENT SURGERY
17
TOTAL KNEE REPLACEMENT SURGERY
23
WHAT TO EXPECT THE FIRST THREE DAYS AFTER TOTAL KNEE REPLACEMENT SURGERY
25
JOINT REPLACEMENT SURGERY
Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Joint Replacement Program Thank you for choosing Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital for your joint replacement surgery. We value the trust you have placed in our organization. Our team of highly trained, experienced and compassionate professionals looks forward to helping you get back in the game of life! Getting You Back In The Game: Joint Replacement Surgery Houston Methodist Sugar Land’s Joint Replacement Program specializes in helping patients recover from joint replacement surgery. Our specialty trained staff, state-of-the-art facilities and advanced diagnostic and treatment techniques all contribute to optimal outcomes for our patients. We believe that joint replacement surgery and recovery is a team effort, which is why we encourage you to be involved in every aspect of your care. Our dedicated team of physicians, nurses, nutritionists, pharmacists, and therapists will assist you throughout each step of the program. Virtually every detail— from preoperative teaching to postoperative exercising—will be considered and reviewed with you. At Houston Methodist Sugar Land, we use new surgical techniques and improved medication methods that allow for a speedy recovery. This rapid recovery process allows you to return to most normal activities, including driving, walking distances and daily living, in just six-to-eight weeks. You Make The Call: Is Joint Replacement Surgery Right For You? Joint replacement surgery is recommended for individuals who have joint damage that 1
Joint Replacement Surgery
interferes with the quality of their daily lives. If you are no longer able to participate in your favorite activities, joint replacement surgery may be the right choice for you. Discuss any questions or concerns you have with your surgeon. You may be required to visit your primary care physician to receive surgical clearance. Risks and Complications Associated With Joint Replacement Surgery Although Houston Methodist Sugar Land exercises extensive safety precautions, there are risks associated with any surgical procedure. The risks of joint replacement surgery may include, but are not limited to: • Blood clots in the legs (deep vein thrombosis, or DVT) • Blood clots that break loose and travel to the lungs (pulmonary emboli) • Dislocation or loosening of the artificial joint • Extra bone growth that can cause stiffness • Infection that requires removal of the artificial joint • Pneumonia
Legal Documents Medical Power of Attorney and Advance Directives are important documents that give you control over what happens to you in the event of unexpected illness, injury or accident. These documents are recommended for all adults: • Medical Power of Attorney – allows you to appoint another person to make health care decisions on your behalf if you are not able to make them for yourself • Advance Directives – helps you communicate your wishes about future medical treatment in the event you become unable to make your wishes known because of illness or injury Visit houstonmethodist.org/advance-directives to access the forms online.
WE’RE ON YOUR TEAM! If you have any questions or concerns regarding your care, please let your doctor or nurse know, or contact the joint coordinator by calling 281.275.0685.
Joint Replacement Surgery
2
LEADING UP TO YOUR SURGERY
Pregame Warm Up: Leading Up To Your Surgery Just as an athlete prepares for a big game, it is important that you prepare for your joint replacement surgery. The better prepared you are, the more rapidly you’ll return to normal activity. Discuss the following with your surgeon prior to your procedure: • W hat you can expect from joint replacement surgery • Q uestions or concerns you have about the procedure • Medications • Provide a complete list of your current medications, including dosages and frequency (include over-the-counter medications such as aspirin or ibuprofen, as well as diet pills, herbal supplements and teas) • A sk about taking any medications prior to surgery • Prescriptions for a walker, crutches or other medical equipment you may need after surgery 3
Leading Up To Your Surgery
To be best prepared, prior to surgery you should also: • Discuss who will assist you for at least a week after surgery during your recovery • P repare your house for your recovery (refer to the home safety tips on page 13) • S chedule follow-up visits and outpatient physical therapy appointments • M ake sure you have any equipment you’ll need while recovering Preparing For Surgery Follow the instructions below the day before surgery: • DO NOT • Eat or drink after midnight the night before surgery (including water, hard candy and gum) • Use alcohol or sedatives 24 hours before surgery • Smoke after midnight the night before surgery • Shave the operative area
Preparing For Surgery continued The following medications may be taken with a SIP of water the morning of surgery: • Blood pressure/heart medications • Stomach/antireflux medication • Seizure medication The following medications should NOT be taken the morning of surgery: • Oral or injectable glucose medication • Diuretics (water pills) Please remember to bring: • Three changes of loose, comfortable clothing and a light bathrobe (loose clothing fits best over bandages); shorts are better than pants to prevent tripping
Make sure you have packed three changes of loose clothing and walking shoes with traction.
• W alking shoes or sneakers with traction and laces – avoid shoes with no back • Personal toiletries • E yeglasses – we are not responsible for lost or misplaced glasses • Dentures – a container will be provided • List of medications – it’s important that you list all of your current medications including dosages and frequency • History of any previous surgeries • List of any phone numbers you may need • W alker and/or crutches and other medical equipment you may need after surgery DO NOT bring valuables, jewelry or medications from home unless advised by your physician.
Notify your doctor immediately if you develop any symptoms of illness prior to your surgery. Symptoms may include cough, fever, upset stomach or skin rash. Leading Up To Your Surgery
4
THE DAY OF SURGERY
The Day Of Surgery Patients must arrive at Houston Methodist Sugar Land at least two hours before their scheduled surgery time. Prior to surgery, be sure to advise your nurse of your medical history, including any allergies, previous complications with anesthesia and any medical issues you may have. Once you arrive: • Report to the front reception desk on the first floor of the Main Pavilion (refer to the map on inside back cover) • After registration, you will be directed to the surgery desk on the second floor of the Main Pavilion • You’ll be escorted to your room, asked to change into a hospital gown, and to place all nonvaluable items into a bag provided for you
• A nurse from the day surgery unit will complete preparations including: • Starting an intravenous (IV) line • Placing a Foley catheter (to monitor the function of your kidneys, hydration level and urine output during surgery) • Monitoring additional vitals such as blood pressure, respiration and pulse
Patients must arrive at least two hours before their scheduled surgery time. For questions about arrival call, 281.275.0685.
5
The Day of Surgery
GOING INTO SURGERY
1 ST BASE
Before Your Procedure: Going Into Surgery
Before your surgery, your operating room nurse will introduce themselves, check your identification band and ask you a few questions. Your surgeon will also visit with you to answer any questions you have before you receive your anesthetic.
Immediate Postanesthesia Phase
Anesthesia services are provided by a care team overseen by board-certified anesthesiologists. The team includes certified nurse anesthetists with special training in providing anesthesia care. Your anesthesiologist will speak with you before surgery and answer any questions you may have. Be sure to talk to your anesthesiologist about any medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs.
To provide privacy for all patients, decrease the risk of infection and enhance the healing process, visitation in the recovery room is not allowed. During your stay in recovery, your family may wait in the designated area. A patient liaison will keep your family informed of your condition.
You can learn what to expect during total hip replacement surgery on page 16 and during total knee replacement surgery on page 23.
After your procedure, you’ll be taken to the recovery room. Specialized nurses with advanced education and training will monitor your progress through the immediate postanesthesia phase.
When you return to your room, the nurse will check your blood pressure, pulse, respirations and bandages. Your IV will remain in place until your physician determines that it’s no longer needed. Visitors are welcome once you are transferred to your inpatient room. Going Into Surgery
6
PAIN MANAGEMENT
Calling In The Relief: Pain Management As most athletes know, sometimes pain is just part of the game. When you have joint replacement surgery, your chronic arthritic pain is gone, but you may experience initial postsurgical pain. Unrelieved pain after surgery can be harmful, making it difficult to take a deep breath, or to move and walk. This can result in complications and a longer hospital stay. That’s why pain management immediately following your procedure is so important. We are dedicated to keeping you as comfortable as possible during your hospital stay. As a patient, you can expect: • Quick response to your pain • Assessment of your response to pain medication given • Detailed information about pain relief measures • Availability of pain relief specialists and/or anesthesiologist The most common types of pain management therapy include: • IV PCA (Patient Controlled Anesthesia) This system delivers medication, usually narcotics, through a peripheral intravenous catheter when you push the IV PCA button. You’ll have a safe, hourly limit and safe time intervals between doses. You know best when you are hurting and when it’s necessary to self-administer a dosage.
7
Pain Management
• Regional blocks – This system is a pressurized pump filled with local anesthetic that delivers continuous medication through a tiny catheter. The regional block provides local anesthetic to the nerve directly associated with the joint for temporary control of pain. This is often used in combination with IV PCA therapy for total knee replacement. • Epidurals – This is a form of regional medication involving injection of medication through a catheter. The injection can cause both loss of sensation (anesthesia) and a loss of pain (analgesia) by blocking the transmission of signals through nerves in or near the spinal cord. This is commonly used in total hip replacement. You may also be prescribed oral pain medication, which is administered on a schedule and/or as needed.
Patient Responsibilities Regarding Pain Management We can manage your pain most effectively if you report: • When the pain began • Where you feel pain • How the pain feels using the pain scale (shown below) • If the pain is constant, or if it comes and goes • What, if anything, makes the pain feel better • What, if anything, makes the pain feel worse • How much pain, if any, your medicine is taking away • How many hours of relief you get from your medication Remember, you may not be completely free of pain, but our staff will work to effectively manage your pain at a comfortable level.
WONG-BAKER FACES® PAIN RATING SCALE Please use the pain scale below throughout your hospital stay to describe your pain levels to your health care professionals.
No Hurt
Hurts Little Bit
Hurts Little More
Hurts Even More
Hurts Whole Lot
Hurts Worst
0 2 4 6 8 10 No Pain
Moderate Pain
Worst Pain
© 1983 Wong-Baker FACES Foundation. Used with permission. www.wongbakerfaces.org
Pain Management
8
POSTOPERATIVE CARE AND RECOVERY
Under no circumstances should you get up by yourself since you could fall without assistance.
2 ND BASE
After Your Procedure: Postoperative Care And Recovery
You may not be running the bases yet, but after the procedure you can expect to be moving toward a successful recovery—all before you even leave the hospital. Your team of physical therapists will evaluate and assist you in taking a postoperative walk—as soon as the morning after your surgery. On your first day after surgery, you will feel much stronger. In addition to walking and attending group physical therapy, you will work with an occupational therapist to create a care plan that maximizes your independence with functional activity. Other important aspects that will be monitored during your hospital stay include: • Eating – When you can eat after surgery depends on how alert you are, how you feel and your physician’s orders. Because of the anesthesia used during surgery, your digestive system will be a little slow in digesting food for a day or two. Your care team will start your diet with clear liquids, such as jello, broth, apple juice, coffee, tea and water. As soon as you are able to pass gas and tolerate a clear diet, you may move on to solid food. 9
Postoperative Care and Recovery
• Neurovascular circulation – Your legs will be checked frequently for the first 48 hours to make sure that you have good blood flow and that you are able to move your legs well. You will be asked to do several small foot and leg exercises to improve circulation and help prevent blood clots from forming. • Exercising your lungs – Anesthesia can often cause a sore throat and shallow breathing. You will be asked to cough and breathe deeply at least every two hours to move secretions. Your doctor will order an incentive spirometer (pictured here)—a medical device used to improve the functioning of your lungs—to be used throughout the day. Your nurse or respiratory therapist will instruct you on how to use it. • Postoperative dressing – You will have dressings that are usually changed the day after surgery. • Urination – A Foley catheter may be used and removed on the second day after surgery. After removal, you’ll be encouraged to use the bedside commode or walk to the bathroom with assistance.
WHAT TO EXPECT DAY BY DAY
Preventing PostOperative Complications Safety measures are in place to help prevent postoperative complications, such as: • Circulation issues – You’ll wear elastic stockings and use a mechanical compression device to prevent circulation problems. You’ll also be asked to perform specific exercises to promote circulation and to strengthen your muscles. • Blood clots – You’ll be prescribed an anticoagulant (blood thinner) to prevent your blood from clotting and causing phlebitis or deep vein thrombosis (DVT)—a possible risk after total joint replacement surgery. Some commonly used anticoagulants include enoxaparin (Lovenox®), and rivaroxaban (Xarelto®). Your physician will prescribe the anticoagulant that is best for you.
What To Expect Day By Day Your game plan will vary depending on the type of joint replacement procedure you undergo. For the best possible outcome, it’s important to follow the guidelines as set out by your team of physicians, nurses and physical therapists. You will find detailed information about what you can expect during your first three days after total hip replacement surgery on page 16 and total knee replacement surgery on page 23.
What To Expect Day By Day
10
REHABILITATION
3 RD BASE
Getting Back On Your Feet: Rehabilitation
To stay in the game, you’ve got to keep your newly improved body warmed up and ready to play. Physical therapy is an essential part of your care. You’ll begin physical therapy the day after surgery and continue with it after you return home. Your rehabilitation care includes: • Therapy sessions – During your hospital stay, you’ll work with your physical therapist twice a day to improve the range of motion and strength of your legs. • Coaching – It’s imperative that you bring someone—a relative or a friend—with you to the Joint Replacement Program to be your “coach.” Your coach will be with you throughout the day in the hospital and can stay the night if necessary. While in the hospital, your coach will assist you each day with your therapy—from getting you out of bed in the morning, to getting you back in bed in the evening. This experience will be invaluable for you—and your coach—when you continue your therapy together at home.
• Gym – The gym offers a positive atmosphere with recliners specifically designed for your therapy. Your care team will support you in beginning to walk by: • Assisting you to sit with your feet over the side of the bed. • Helping you stand with the use of a walker and assist you to a chair. • Encouraging you to increase your walking distance throughout the day.
Walking is a critical aspect for a successful recovery; in fact, getting back on your feet is the most important thing you will do.
11
Rehabilitation
GOING HOME
HOM E P LATE
Getting Ready For Discharge: Going Home
You’ve been working hard to round the bases and now you’re almost home! If you’ve been hitting it out of the park with your recovery efforts, you’ll be discharged from the hospital at this point. However, your care doesn’t end once you’ve made it safely to home plate; your surgeon may recommend that you continue to work with a physical therapist to achieve and maintain optimum joint function. Several items will be reviewed with you before you leave the hospital to ensure your complete recovery. Surgical Site Care Although rare, it is possible for infections to occur after surgery. Check the surgical site daily for symptoms of infection, which may include:
• Any amount of yellow, green or foulsmelling drainage • Oral temperature greater than 100.4º F Notify your surgeon IMMEDIATELY if you have any of the above symptoms. Your nurse will give you specific instructions at the time of discharge. DO NOT peel off your sterile strips from the incision as they will fall off on their own within three-to-six days. Pain Management At Home Before you leave the hospital, your doctor will give you prescriptions for pain medication and an anticoagulant (blood thinner). Take your medication as prescribed. If you are experiencing side effects, or if your pain medication does not work, call your doctor.
• Increased swelling and redness • Increased pain Going Home
12
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW GOING FORWARD
Post Game Review: What You Need To Know Going Forward You may feel like an All-Star now that you’ve successfully completed your joint replacement procedure, but you still need to take it easy for a while. To ease the transition from hospital to home, be sure to arrange for someone to assist you with your daily needs. Home Safety During the first few weeks at home, you’ll need to adapt what you learned at the hospital to your own setting. Rooms and hallways: • Declutter
• Ensure bathtub seat/bench is the appropriate height and secured well • Adhere safety strips to bathtub or shower floor • Use a handheld shower head, if available Other tips: • Place good lighting and nonslip treads on outside steps or ramp • Sit in a firm chair with arms (add two firm pillows to a low chair to provide proper height)
• Have good lighting
• Store items within easy reach, not in high or low cabinets
• Install handrails on stairs
• Prepare favorite meals ahead of time
• Remove cords and rugs
• For safety, be mindful of grandchildren and pets
• Make certain your bed height is 18 inches or more to ensure your hips are above your knees when you sit on the edge Bathroom: • Check toilet seat to make sure it is the adequate height • Install grab-bars by toilet and bathtub
• A key factor to a successful recovery • is your personal motivation and • involvement in continuing your • physical therapy program.
• Be sure to schedule your follow-up
visits prior to your surgery.
13
What You Need To Know Going Forward
Driving Consult with your physician before driving. Typically, patients may begin driving within four-to-six weeks post doctor. Bathing/Showering Please remember your hip/knee precautions while bathing (refer to pages 19 and 27). Your nurse will give you instructions regarding bathing at home at the time of your discharge. Water Exercises/Swimming Swimming and other water related exercises are NOT permitted without consent from your doctor. Healthy Eating Due to anesthesia, pain medications and low levels of activity, constipation will likely occur. To minimize constipation: • Drink plenty of water—at least eight (8 oz) glasses of water per day • Add fiber to your diet by eating at least five servings of fruit and vegetables and threeto-four servings of whole grains
Visit ChooseMyPlate.gov to learn more about My Plate.
• Eat yogurt with live cultures • Take an over-the-counter stool softener, laxative or fiber supplement, if needed My Plate “My Plate” is a resource provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture that outlines what to eat each day. It’s not a rigid prescription, but rather a general guide that lets you choose a healthy diet that’s right for you. My Plate’s healthy diet: • Emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains and fat-free or low-fat milk and milk products • I ncludes lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, eggs, and nuts • Is low in saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, salt (sodium) and added sugars
What You Need To Know Going Forward
14
LIFELONG PROTECTION AGAINST INFECTION
Be A Hall Of Famer: Lifelong Protection Against Infection Although uncommon, an artificial joint can become infected from a bacterial infection in another part of the body, such as pneumonia, urinary tract infection, staph infections, food poisoning, etc. Contact your physician immediately if you think you have a bacterial infection. Routine colds, cuts and bruises do not require treatment with antibiotics. To prevent future infections, be sure to let your physician know that you have an artificial joint when receiving any of the following procedures to determine if an antibiotic regimen is necessary: • Colonoscopy/endoscopy • Cystoscopy • Dermatologic procedures (requiring cutting into the skin) • Podiatry procedures (requiring cutting into the skin) • Routine dental cleaning or any dental procedures, including root canals • Skin biopsy It is NOT necessary to take antibiotics for the following: • Cataract surgery • Gynecologic exams • Injections or blood work • Pedicures/manicures • Routine colds, cuts and bruises
15
Lifelong Protection Against Infection
If you have a prosthetic device, such as an artificial joint, you should: • Carefully protect against infection and take antibiotics before any dental work or invasive procedure • Always tell your health care provider about your prosthetic joint • Carry a medical identification card indicating that you have a prosthetic device
TOTAL HIP REPLACEMENT SURGERY
What You Need To Know: Total Hip Replacement Surgery What Is Total Hip Replacement?
About the Surgery
Total hip replacement surgery—also called hip hemiarthroplasty, hip arthroplasty and—is performed to replace all or part of a damaged hip joint with an artificial device (prosthesis).
Total hip replacement surgery starts with the removal of the head of the femur (Fig. 1). Next, the new socket is implanted, after which the metal stem is inserted into the femur (Fig. 2). The artificial components are fixed in place, sometimes with special bone cement (Fig. 3–4).
The hip is a “ball and socket” joint. The head of the thigh bone (“ball”) fits in the pelvic bone (“socket”). When the joint is damaged, it does not function properly, often causing pain and limited mobility.
Cup
Metal or Ceramic Ball
Total hip replacement uses an artificial joint that consists of three parts • Cup – replaces your hip socket
Metal Stem
• Metal or ceramic ball – replaces the fractured head of your thigh bone (femur) • Metal stem – attaches to the shaft of your femur bone to add stability to the artificial joint Hemiarthroplasty replaces only the head of the femur with a prosthetic device.
SURGERY INFORMATION Total Hip Replacement Surgery
16
Total Knee Replacement Surgery
23
Total Hip Replacement Surgery
16
WHAT TO EXPECT
What To Expect After Total Hip Replacement Surgery DAY OF SURGERY • Physical therapy, once after surgery • If outpatient, will have therapy twice • Care team will assist with:
ACTIVITY
• Getting out of bed and walking with your walker • Getting out of bed and in a chair for meals • Activities of daily living
MEDICATION
17
What To Expect
• Pain medications are given through a regimen developed by anesthesia. It will be a combination of oral nerve, muscle, and acute pain pills • Pain will be managed through oral medications only • Antibiotics given to prevent infection • Blood thinners given and antiembolism stockings used to prevent blood clots • Stool softener given to prevent constipation
BREATHING EXERCISES
• Deep breathing exercises and using the incentive spirometer every hour while awake to prevent fevers and pneumonia
DIET
• Begin with clear liquids; advance to a regular diet
SELFCARE
• Feed yourself • Wash your face and upper body • Ask for assistance to wash your legs
Following your total hip replacement surgery, we’ll work together to help you achieve certain goals that guide you toward a speedy recovery. While there may be exceptions, most patients can expect the days after surgery to look like the chart below:
DAY ONE • Physical therapy, twice a day • Care team will assist with: • Performing hip exercises • Using your walker or crutches • May discharge today if you meet criteria
• Pain will be managed through oral medications only • Continue with blood thinners, antiembolism stockings and stool softener
DAY TWO • Physical therapy, twice a day • You should be able to: • Get out of bed independently • Walk with a walker or crutches • Be independent with your exercise program at home
• Continue oral pain medications • Review medications that will be taken at home (included with discharge instructions)
DO NOT drink alcoholic beverages while on pain medication.
• Same as day of surgery
• Same as day of surgery, except every two hours
• Regular diet (Please note that drinking several glasses of water and eating plenty of fruits and vegetables each day will help prevent constipation.)
• Same as day one
• Walk to the bathroom with assistance
• Dress and bathe yourself with minimal assistance
What To Expect
18
WHAT TO EXPECT
Planning Your Discharge
Other specific instructions include:
Beginning the second day after surgery, we’ll start working with you to plan your discharge from the hospital.
Lying down
• Y our case worker will meet with you and your coach to discuss discharge plans • Your physical therapist and nurse will help you identify what equipment you’ll need at home, and your case manager will arrange for you to get the equipment needed • Your physical therapist will advise you on how to get in and out of a car and how to climb stairs using a walker or crutches • You’ll be given instructions on how to administer self-injected anticoagulation therapy, if needed Upon Discharge • You’ll be given written and verbal discharge instructions • Your nurse will review: • Instructions for your care at home, including caring for your incision • Signs of an infection or blood clot • The importance of good nutrition • Your doctor may suggest home care services, such as home health or physical therapy Total Hip Replacement Precautions Follow hip precautions at all times to prevent dislocation. Immediately following surgery, you should take the following precautions to avoid injury: • Do not bend past 60-or-90 degrees • Do not twist or cross your legs
• W hile in bed, lie on your back and keep a pillow between your thighs to prevent your knees from touching Getting up • M ove to the edge of the bed or chair before standing and keep your recovering leg in front of the other when getting up Walking • Continue using your walker until your doctor instructs you to stop • Wear shoes with good traction • Take short walks every hour; be sure to take small steps when turning • Maintain your weight-bearing status as indicated by your doctor’s orders (the amount of weight you are allowed to safely put on your surgery leg) Sitting • Sit in firm chairs that are higher than knee height that have a straight back and armrests Toileting • U se a raised toilet seat and avoid twisting while flushing or grabbing toilet paper Bathing • I f discharged with staples in place, DO NOT shower unless otherwise advised by your surgeon. Once sutures are removed, you may shower, but do not bathe in a tub until you receive permission from your surgeon • Y ou may use a walk-in shower, a tub seat or bench, or take a sponge bath. DO NOT sit in the bottom of a standard bathtub • R emember, do not bend or reach for the knobs to wash your legs and feet • M ake sure you dry the surgical site gently, but completely
19
What To Expect
Dressing • Ask your coach to assist you in getting dressed or use long-handled equipment • Always place clothing on recovering side first and remain seated when pulling clothing over feet • W hile dressing, remember not to bend over, raise or cross your legs Riding in a car • Driving is not permitted until instructed by your doctor • Enter car from a flat surface (a curb or step could be a falling hazard) • If possible, do not take long car rides. If a long car ride is unavoidable, get out of the car and walk around every two hours • Cars with deep bucket seats or low seats are not recommended; however, if this is your only option, use a pillow to raise the height of the seat Household chores • Ask someone to assist in household chores during your recovery • Do not bend to pick up objects from the floor; use a long-handled reaching tool
Your physical therapist and nurse will help you identify what equipment you’ll need at home, as well as arrange for you to get the equipment needed.
• Do not vacuum or sweep • Use a rolling cart to transport items • To help you avoid bending, place commonly used items above knee level • Sit while preparing food
What To Expect
20
WHAT TO EXPECT
Hip Exercises ANKLE PUMPS Perform this exercise 10 times every hour while awake to promote circulation. 1. Slowly point and flex your foot.
QUAD SETS 1. Press the back of your knee toward the bed and tighten your thigh muscle.
GLUTEAL SQUEEZE 1. Lie on your back and tighten your buttocks muscle for 10 seconds.
SHORT ARC QUADS 1. P lace a small towel behind your knee so that it is NOT touching the bed. 2. F lex your thigh muscle to lift your ankle off the bed. Hold fully straightened for 5-to-10 seconds. Then, slowly lower your heel back down to the bed.
The benefits of exercise after a total hip replacement surgery are endless. Speak with your surgeon and physical therapist about the best postoperative activities for you.
21
What To Expect
Hip Exercises Continued HEEL SLIDES 1. L ie on your back and bend your knee by sliding your heel back toward your buttocks. 2. Do not bend your hip more than 90 degrees, but try to increase the bend in your knee a little more with each repetition. 3. Bend your knee for 5-to-10 seconds and then straighten. 4. Repeat until your legs feel fatigued or until you can completely bend your knee. HIP ABDUCTION 1. L ie on your back and tighten your thigh muscles. 2. L ock your knee and move the recovering leg outward and then back inward. STAIR CLIMBING If needed, you will practice stair climbing. 1. Step up with non-recovering leg. 2. Step down with recovering leg.
What To Expect
22
TOTAL KNEE REPLACEMENT SURGERY
What You Need To Know: Total Knee Replacement Surgery What Is Total Knee Replacement?
About the Surgery
Total knee replacement surgery—also known as knee arthroplasty—is performed to remove a damaged knee joint and replace it with an artificial joint (prosthesis). The goal of an artificial knee joint is to replicate your knee’s natural ability to roll and glide as it bends.
Total knee replacement surgery is performed using general anesthesia. The doctor makes an incision over the knee, moves the kneecap (patella) out of the way, and cuts the ends of the thigh bone (femur) and shin (tibia) to fit the prosthesis. The prosthesis is fixed onto the ends of the femur, tibia and undersurface of the patella, sometimes with the use of bone cement.
There is a wide variety of prosthetic designs that take into account your age, weight, activity level and overall health. You and your doctor will choose the artificial joint design that works best for you.
23
Total Knee Replacement Surgery
The goal of an artificial knee joint is to replicate your knee’s natural ability to roll and glide as it bends.
Total Knee Replacement Surgery
24
WHAT TO EXPECT
What To Expect After Total Knee Replacement Surgery DAY OF SURGERY • Physical therapy, once after surgery • If outpatient, will have therapy twice • Care team will assist with:
ACTIVITY
• Getting out of bed and walking with your walker • Getting out of bed and in a chair for meals • Activities of daily living
25
What To Expect
MEDICATION
• Pain medications are given through a regimen developed by anesthesia. It will be a combination of oral nerve, muscle, and acute pain pills • Antibiotics given to prevent infection • Blood thinners given and antiembolism stockings used to prevent blood clots • Stool softener given to prevent constipation
BREATHING EXERCISES
• Deep breathing exercises and using the incentive spirometer every hour while awake to prevent fevers and pneumonia
DIET
• Begin with clear liquids; advance to a regular diet
SELFCARE
• Feed yourself • Wash your face and upper body • Ask for assistance to wash your legs
Following your total knee replacement surgery, we’ll work together to help you achieve certain goals that guide you toward a speedy recovery. While there may be exceptions, most patients can expect the days after surgery to look like the chart below:
DAY ONE • Physical therapy, twice a day • Care team will assist with: • Performing knee exercises • Using your walker • May discharge today if you meet criteria
NO PILLOW UNDER LEG
• Pain will be managed through oral medications only • Continue with blood thinners, antiembolism stockings and stool softener
DAY TWO • Physical therapy, once in the morning • You should be able to: • Get out of bed independently • Walk with a walker or crutches • Be independent with your exercise program at home
• Continue oral pain medications • Review medications that will be taken at home (included with discharge instructions)
DO NOT drink alcoholic beverages while on pain medication.
• Same as day of surgery
• Same as day of surgery, except every two hours
• Regular diet (Please note that drinking several glasses of water and eating plenty of fruits and vegetables each day will help prevent constipation.)
• Same as day one
• Walk to the bathroom with assistance
• Dress and bathe yourself with minimal assistance
What To Expect
26
WHAT TO EXPECT
Planning Your Discharge Beginning the second day after surgery, we’ll start working with you to plan your discharge from the hospital. • Y our case worker will meet with you and your coach to discuss discharge plans • Your physical therapist and nurse will help you identify what equipment you’ll need at home, and your case manager will arrange for you to get the equipment needed • Your physical therapist will advise you on how to get in and out of a car and how to climb stairs using a walker or crutches • You’ll be given instruction on how to administer self-injected anticoagulation therapy, if needed Upon Discharge • Your nurse will review: • Instructions for your care at home, including caring for your incision • Signs of an infection or blood clot • The importance of good nutrition • Your doctor may suggest home care services, such as home health or physical therapy Total Knee Replacement Precautions Certain body positions and activities can cause knee dislocation. Prevention of dislocation includes the following: • D O NOT stand, bend knees and twist at the same time • D O NOT put more weight on your affected leg than instructed
KNEE EXERCISES 27
What To Expect
Knee Exercises ANKLE PUMPS Perform this exercise 10 times every hour while awake to promote circulation. 1. Slowly point and flex your foot. QUAD SETS 1. Press the back of your knee toward the bed and tighten your thigh muscle. HEEL SLIDES 1. Lie on your back and bend your knee by sliding your heel back toward your buttocks. 2. Do not bend your hip more than 90 degrees, but try to increase the bend in your knee a little more with each repetition. 3. Hold your knee in maximally bent position for 5-to-10 seconds and then straighten. 4. Repeat until your legs feel fatigued or until you can completely bend your knee. HEEL SLIDES IN CHAIR 1. Sit in your chair and make sure the foot of your recovering leg is as close to you as possible. 2. S coot toward the edge of the chair without moving your feet. 3. Stretch for a full 10 seconds and repeat 10 times.
What To Expect
28
WHAT TO EXPECT
Knee Exercises Continued STRAIGHT LEG RAISES 1. Lie on your back and bend your non-recovering knee. 2. Raise your recovering leg, keeping your knee straight. 3. Repeat 20 times. STAIR CLIMBING If needed, you will practice stair climbing. 1. Step up with non-recovering leg. 2. Step down with recovering leg.
The benefits of exercise after a total knee replacement surgery are endless. Speak with your surgeon and physical therapist about the best postoperative activities for you.
29
What To Expect
Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Campus Map AMC THEATRE
CHAPEL DINING
T O W N C E N T E R B LV D . S O U T H
ELEVATOR GIFT SHOP INFORMATION MUSLIM PRAYER ROOM PARKING RESERVED PARKING
ENTRANCE
RESTROOM EMERGENCY ROOM
Cancer Center
ENTRANCE Heart & Vascular Center
LEVEL 2 SKYBRIDGE CONSTRUCTION ZONE
MEDICAL OFFICE BUILDING 2
Infusion Center
ENTRANCE
Breast Care Center
MAIN PARKING GARAGE (FREE)
SWEETWATER BLVD.
IV Therapy
SOUTH ENTRANCE
SWEETWATER PAVILION Outpatient Imaging & Lab
EMERGENCY ENTRANCE
Main Imaging
Childbirth Center
SWEETWATER PARKING GARAGE (FREE)
WALGREENS
MEDICAL OFFICE BUILDING 3
Main Conference Center
BRAZOS PAVILION Brazos Conference Center
Wound Neuroscience Care & Spine Program Center
ENTRANCE
MAIN PAVILION
MAIN ENTRANCE
U.S. 59 FRONTAGE ROAD
NORTH ENTRANCE
MEDICAL OFFICE BUILDING 1
ORTHOPEDICS & SPORTS MEDICINE
ENTRANCE ENTRANCE
SOUTHWEST FWY.
Joint Program located on the 6th floor in the Main Pavilion All parking is free. Complimentary valet parking is available at the Main entrance until 7 p.m. For directions, please call 281.274.7000.
16655 Southwest Fwy. Sugar Land, Texas 77479
092018