How to Prepare for Your Orthopaedic Surgery: A Patient’s Guide

Orthopaedic surgery can be life-changing, whether you're undergoing a knee replacement, a ligament repair, or any other procedure to address musculoskeletal issues. Preparing for your surgery is key to ensuring the best possible outcome and a smooth recovery. This guide will offer practical tips to help you get ready for your orthopaedic surgery, covering everything from pre-operative health management to creating a comfortable recovery space at home.

Understanding the Importance of Pre-Operative Preparation

Proper preparation before orthopaedic surgery not only helps improve surgical outcomes but also shortens recovery time. Being physically and mentally prepared can make a significant difference in how you experience the surgery and recovery process. Whether you're scheduled for a hip replacement, knee surgery, or shoulder procedure, your preparation steps will have a lasting impact on your healing journey.

At MSK Doctors, we want to empower our patients with the knowledge and tools they need to be fully prepared. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started.

Step 1: Pre-Surgical Health Optimisation

In the weeks leading up to your surgery, your overall health can affect how well you recover. Here’s how you can optimise your health before surgery:

Exercise Regularly: If possible, engage in light exercise to strengthen the muscles around the area that will be operated on. For example, strengthening your legs before knee surgery can help improve post-surgery mobility.
Quit Smoking: If you smoke, quitting before surgery is crucial. Smoking can slow down healing and increase the risk of complications during and after surgery. Talk to your healthcare provider about support options to help you quit.
Maintain a Healthy Diet: Eating a balanced diet full of nutrients, especially proteins, will help your body heal faster. Ensure you're consuming enough vitamins and minerals to support tissue repair.
Manage Any Medical Conditions: If you have underlying health conditions like diabetes or hypertension, ensure they are well-managed before surgery. Your doctor may recommend a pre-operative assessment to check your health status and identify any risks.

Step 2: Plan Your Post-Operative Recovery Space

Setting up a comfortable and functional recovery space at home will make your post-surgery experience easier. This is especially important if your mobility will be limited after surgery, such as following hip or knee replacements. Consider the following:

Create an Accessible Resting Area: Arrange your living space so that everything you need is within reach. This might include pillows, medications, water, your phone, and entertainment like books or a TV remote. If possible, set up a resting area on the ground floor to avoid stairs.
Mobility Aids: Depending on the type of surgery, you may need crutches, a walker, or a cane for support. Make sure these items are readily available before you come home from surgery.
Assistive Devices: Items like shower chairs, grab bars, or raised toilet seats can make daily tasks easier and safer during recovery. These devices can prevent falls and ensure you are as independent as possible.
Prepare Meals in Advance: Preparing and freezing meals before your surgery can reduce the need for cooking during the early stages of recovery, when standing and moving might be uncomfortable.

Step 3: Mental and Emotional Preparation

Surgery can be an anxious experience for many patients. Preparing mentally and emotionally is just as important as physical preparation.

Understand the Procedure: Speak with your orthopaedic surgeon to fully understand the procedure you’re having. Knowing what to expect during and after surgery can ease anxiety and help you feel more in control.
Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask your surgeon any questions about the surgery, recovery process, or potential risks. Having your concerns addressed can provide peace of mind.
Prepare for Post-Surgery Feelings: It’s normal to feel some emotional ups and downs after surgery, particularly during the initial recovery phase when mobility is limited. Keep in mind that healing takes time, and reaching out for emotional support can make the process smoother.

Step 4: Practical Preparations for Surgery Day

There are some practical steps to take the day before and the day of your surgery to ensure everything goes smoothly:

Follow Pre-Surgery Instructions: Your surgeon will provide specific instructions, such as fasting before surgery or stopping certain medications. Be sure to follow these instructions closely to avoid complications.
Pack a Hospital Bag: Pack a bag with essential items like comfortable clothes, toiletries, your phone, and chargers. If you’re staying overnight, you may also want to bring something to keep you entertained, like a book or tablet.
Arrange for Transportation: You won’t be able to drive yourself home after surgery, so make sure you’ve arranged for someone to take you to and from the hospital.

Conclusion: Preparing for Orthopaedic Surgery

Proper preparation can make a huge difference in how smoothly your surgery and recovery go. By optimising your health, setting up a comfortable recovery space, and preparing mentally for the procedure, you can ensure that you’re ready for your orthopaedic surgery. At MSK Doctors, we’re committed to helping you through every step of the process—from surgery to full recovery.

If you’re scheduled for an orthopaedic procedure and have any questions about how to prepare, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for guidance and support.

FAQ Section:

How soon before my surgery should I start preparing? Ideally, you should start preparing at least two to three weeks before your surgery. This gives you time to optimise your health, organise your home, and mentally prepare for the procedure.
What should I avoid eating or drinking before surgery? Your surgeon will typically advise you to stop eating and drinking 6-8 hours before your surgery. Avoid heavy or greasy foods the night before and follow any specific instructions from your healthcare provider.
Can I exercise before surgery? Yes, light exercise can be beneficial in the weeks leading up to surgery, as it helps strengthen the muscles around the area that will be operated on. However, avoid any strenuous activities and consult with your doctor about appropriate exercises.
What items should I have at home for post-surgery recovery? Make sure to have mobility aids like crutches or a walker, assistive devices such as shower chairs or grab bars, and a comfortable resting area with all essentials within reach. Pre-prepared meals can also be helpful during recovery.
How can I reduce anxiety before surgery? Understanding the procedure, asking questions, and preparing mentally can help reduce anxiety. Deep breathing exercises and mindfulness techniques can also be helpful. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your surgeon if you have concerns.
How long will recovery take after orthopaedic surgery? Recovery time varies depending on the type of surgery. Some patients recover in a few weeks, while others, especially those undergoing joint replacements, may need several months of rehabilitation. Your surgeon will give you a specific timeline based on your procedure.