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Preparing For Joint Replacement Surgery

Getting Ready for Total Joint Surgery: Tips for a Successful Recovery

Preparing for your joint replacement surgery is one of the most important steps you can take to ensure the best possible outcome. By planning ahead, you can shorten your recovery time, reduce complications, and return to your normal activities more smoothly. Below are essential tips to help you get ready for surgery with Dr. Ryan Cone.

Medical Preparation

  • Obtain Medical Clearance: Visit your primary care physician—and if recommended, your cardiologist—for medical clearance prior to surgery.

  • Pre-Operative Testing: Your primary care physician will arrange labs and an EKG to make sure you are ready for anesthesia and surgery.

  • Pre-Operative Appointment with Dr. Cone: Plan to see Dr. Cone 1–2 weeks before surgery to review your health, discuss your recovery plan, and address questions.

Support System

  • Arrange a “Joints Coach”: Have a trusted family member or friend available to help with your home recovery during the first 72 hours after surgery.

  • Transportation: Make sure someone is available to take you home after surgery and to your early follow-up appointments.

Home Preparation

  • Set Up Your Recovery Space: Clear walkways, remove loose rugs, and arrange frequently used items at waist level to avoid bending or reaching.

  • Safety Equipment: Consider a shower chair, raised toilet seat, and stable armchairs for safe mobility at home.

Optimize Your Health

  • Nutrition: Focus on lean protein, fruits, and vegetables to promote healing. If interested in nutrition supplements, Dr. Cone recommends  

  • Limit Alcohol: Avoid excessive alcohol in the weeks leading up to surgery. 

  • Stop Tobacco Use: Stop smoking, vaping, or chewing tobacco at least 6 weeks before surgery to reduce complications and support healing.

  • Pre-Surgical Rehabilitation: Strengthen your lower extremities with simple exercises or physical therapy to help improve recovery after surgery.

Surgery Essentials to Pick Up​

  • Post-Operative Medications: Fill all prescriptions before your surgery date.

  • Ice Pack or Cold Compression Device: Helps reduce swelling and manage pain after surgery.

  • Hibiclens® Soap: Begin daily Hibiclens washes 5 days prior to surgery as instructed to reduce infection risk.

  • RomTech recovery Bicycle (Partial and Total knee Replacements): If prescribed, This will be set up in your home by a representative prior to the surgical date. 

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