Orthopaedics

Total Joint Replacement Program

UMMC's Orthopaedics Program ranked as one of the nation's 50 best by U.S. News & World Report's 2010 "Best Hospitals" survey.

Answers to Common Postoperative Questions

After going home from the hospital or rehabilitation center, many patients have questions. Here are the answers to some commonly asked questions.

The white support stockings are to be worn for at least two weeks from the date of surgery or longer if you are having swelling of the operated leg. These are to be put on first thing in the morning after bathing and removed at bedtime. They are used to help control edema and to help prevent blood clot formation
You need to call and schedule a follow-up appointment as instructed by the doctor if one was not made for you upon your discharge.
If you run out of pain medication, call your physician's office with your pharmacy number and another prescription will be called in for you.
You will be visited at home usually three times a week by a physical therapist, who will continue your exercise program. Once you are independent, your home therapy will be discontinued. You are to continue your exercise program daily. Please contact your physician for a referral to our outpatient physical therapy if needed.
When bathing, make sure someone is with you for assistance. You may want to use a shower chair. Pat your incision line dry.
If you are taking warfarin (coumadin), a visiting nurse will come to your house twice a week to draw blood. This is to monitor the effectiveness of the blood thinner.
If you have any further questions, please call your physician's office
Call your doctor if you develop any of these symptoms:

fever
drainage from the incision
redness or swelling around the incision
calf pain or swelling
chest pain, congestion, difficulty breathing
increase in pain to the affected joint.

This page was last updated on: January 9, 2012.

For more information about UM Orthopaedics or to make an appointment, call toll-free at 1-877-771-4567 or 410-448-6400, send us an e-mail or complete our secure contact form.