When faced with whether or not to have surgery, you must arm yourself with as much information as possible. You need to know what to expect before, during, and after the procedure. There are many things to take into consideration when making this life-altering decision.
What is arthroplasty surgery?
Arthroplasty surgery is the surgical replacement of a joint. The most common type of arthroplasty surgery is hip replacement surgery, and other types of arthroplasty surgeries include knee replacement surgery, shoulder replacement surgery, and elbow replacement surgery.
These procedures replace joints with artificial parts. The surgery is performed when damage to one or both sides of the joint precludes it from functioning normally or at all. Patients suffering from chronic inflammation as a result of Crohn’s disease may be candidates for arthroplasty surgery.
Below are tips to prepare for a visit to an arthroplasty surgeon
- Make a list of questions to ask the surgeon
These questions should include both general and specific concerns about the procedure. You must be completely comfortable with your surgeon and confident in their capabilities before agreeing to any treatment plan. Any reputable arthroplasty surgeon will welcome all questions, no matter how basic or advanced they may seem! Also, make sure to ask if there are any risks or complications associated with the surgery and what you can do to minimize them.
- Create a list of questions to ask yourself
It is a crucial step for those considering surgery as a last resort. If you have exhausted all other avenues, it means that you have done everything in your power to avoid surgery, but nothing has worked. Make sure that this option truly feels like the right one before allowing anyone to operate on you.
- Make a list of questions to ask your family and friends
What do they think about you having surgery? How did their experience with this type of procedure go for them, if at all? What would they recommend that you do before or after the operation? It is also an essential step because those around us influence our decisions more than we realize.
Take all of these points into consideration as you weigh your options and make the best decision for you. Remember, there is no “right” or “wrong” answer – only what feels right for you!
- Get a second opinion
It is always a good idea, especially when it comes to surgery. You must have complete faith in your surgeon and their abilities, so getting a second (or even third) opinion is never a bad thing.
- Be prepared for a long recovery process
It is especially important to keep in mind if you have a job that requires heavy lifting or strenuous activity. You will need time to rest and recuperate after surgery, so make sure to factor that into your plans.
- Follow all post-operative instructions closely
It is crucial for a successful and speedy recovery. Disregarding your surgeon’s instructions could lead to serious complications down the road.
If you considerarthroplasty surgery, talk to your doctor today about what steps you can take to prepare. Being as informed as possible is the best way to decide that you will be happy in the long run.