Scheduling My Surgery & The Total Joint Class

1. Once you have been indicated for surgery by our team you will receive a blue pre-surgical information packet that contains all preoperative testing orders, and educational materials.
2. Within 2 days of your office visit, our surgical coordinators will call you to help you plan the date of surgery, choose a facility, and help you navigate the preoperative testing needed. Surgery will usually be scheduled within 4-6 weeks of your first appointment.
3. Approximately 2-4 weeks before surgery you will attend a mandatory  total joint replacement class to assist with pre-operative questions/concerns and ensure you understand our postoperative protocol
4. Roughly 2 weeks before surgery you will return to see your physician to review all pre-surgical testing ordered, and make a plan for physical therapy after surgery.
5. After surgery, you will return to the office within 2-4 weeks for postoperative evaluation and x-rays.

Class attendance is mandatory to ensure you understand the surgical booking process, understand postoperative expectations, recovery time, and pain management protocols. This information takes roughly 30-45 minutes to review and cannot be accomplished during the office visit. While we understand that attending the joint class is a separate event in which you will have to come into the office, this course significantly helps to decrease complications rates, and ensures you are prepared for the major procedure you will be undergoing. Roughly 8-10 classes are offered each month in 7 locations. Your surgical coordinator will schedule you for a course date at the time of surgical scheduling.

Most patients will need to undergo the following tests and clearances:

• Blood work & MRSA screening
• EKG
• Medical clearance

Orders for this testing will be provided the day you are indicated for surgery in the office. We require the results at least 2 weeks prior to surgery to avoid cancellation. 

If you suffer from heart, lung, vascular, or neurologic conditions we may also request special testing or clearances from a specialist such as a cardiologist to ensure you are safe to proceed with surgery.

☐ Meet with your primary care doctor 4-6 weeks before surgery to discuss improving your health to decrease risk of surgical complications

☐ Begin pre-surgical testing & make sure it is received by your office 2 weeks prior to surgery

☐ Begin your home exercise program 2-3x per week

☐ STOP the following medications 2 weeks before surgery (NSAIDs, fish oil or turmeric supplements, and blood thinners at the discretion of your PCP

☐ Remove any fall hazards in the home

☐ Make sure you have access to a two-wheeled walker

☐ Schedule your first visit with PT