I prefer to use anterior approach to perform most of my hip replacement procedures. This involves a relatively smaller incision, less muscle damage during surgery, less pain, early discharge, less chances of dislocation as compared to other approaches and a quicker recovery.

Patients are able to stand and walk within 24 hours of surgery and are walking independently with a walker frame 48-72 hours after surgery.

You will usually stay in the hospital for 5-6 days. After surgery, you will feel some pain in your hip. Pain medication will be given to make you as comfortable as possible.

To avoid lung congestion after surgery, you will be asked to breathe deeply and cough frequently.

Walking and light activity are important to your recovery and will begin the day of or the day after your surgery. The physical therapist will teach you specific exercises to strengthen your hip and restore movement for walking and other normal daily activities.

You will have stitches or staples running along your wound or a suture beneath your skin. The stitches or staples will be removed approximately 2 weeks after surgery.

Avoid getting the wound wet until it has thoroughly sealed and dried. A bandage may be placed over the wound to prevent irritation from clothing or support stockings.

To assure proper recovery and prevent dislocation of the prosthesis, you must take special precautions:

• Do not cross your legs
• Do not bend your hips more than a right angle (90°).
• Do not turn your feet excessively inward or outward
• Use a pillow between your legs at night when sleeping until you are advised by your orthopaedic surgeon that you can remove it.