HIP REPLACEMENT (ARTHROPLASTY)
Patients must be seen in Hobart for surgical opinion prior to booking surgery. After consultation, surgery can be arranged at a later date at a time that is suitable.
Pre Operative Appointments
Patients are required to travel to Hobart for face to face consultation with Dr Pritchard. On this day, arrangements will also be made to attend:
- Pre-Admission Clinic with the hospital nurse (this will include routine pathology, ECG and a pre-op X-ray). These investigations cannot be done interstate prior to admission.
- Consultation with Anaesthetist (if available)
Telephone consult can be arranged if anaesthetist not available same day.
Hospital Stay
Patients are admitted into hospital on the day of their scheduled surgery and will remain in hospital for 1-3 days following. Patients are required to stay in Hobart for a minimum of 10 days following surgery. This is to comply with airline regulations and to minimise the risk of DVT.
Post Operative Appointments
A post operative appointment with Dr Pritchard will be arranged in Hobart at approximately 10 days post surgery. Clearance will be given at this appointment to fly.
Patients will be required have an xray at 6 weeks post surgery. The films will be uploaded for Dr Pritchard to view. A phone consultation will be pre-arranged with Dr Pritchard for the 6 week mark.
Physiotherapy Post Direct Anterior Approach Hip Replacement
Patients are seen by the physiotherapist in hospital the day of surgery. They will progress and monitor patients movements and strength during the hospital stay.
On discharge from hospital, it is recommended that these exercises are continued at home until review at 6 weeks.
Not all patients require monitored follow-up physiotherapy after leaving hospital. Dr Pritchard will advise if this is indicated prior to discharge.
Overseas Travel
When planning surgery, overseas travel is not recommended under 12 weeks post joint replacement.