Hip and Knee Replacement Rapid Recovery

Hip and knee joint replacements are very common surgeries that often result in a greatly increased quality of life for patients with pain and mobility issues. However, it’s usually a very invasive operation that can result in significant pain and a long rehabilitation period as you recover from surgery. That’s why a newer procedure, Rapid Recovery hip and knee replacement, has been developed. It offers all of the benefits of this type of surgery while minimizing pain and recovery time.

In this blog, orthopedist Dr. Peter K. Sculco in NYC explains more about the specifics of Rapid Recovery and how it may be able to help you:

What is Rapid Recovery hip and knee joint replacement?

This type of surgery enables you and your doctor to take steps before, during, and after your procedure so you’ll have a better, easier recovery. At an initial consultation, your surgeon will discuss your general health with you, stressing the importance of getting your blood sugar levels under control before surgery. You should also quit smoking and address any other medical issues to ensure the best possible outcome after surgery.

With traditional knee and hip joint replacement surgery, you’ll learn to use a walker and perform certain exercises at home after your procedure. But with Rapid Recovery, you’ll learn how to do this prior to your surgery, which makes your post-surgical transition easier. In addition, you’ll use specific pain medication before your surgery, which will help minimize post-operative issues such as nausea, vomiting, and constipation. It will also help you resume walking more quickly after your procedure.

During your Rapid Recovery hip and knee replacement surgery, you’ll receive nerve blocks and joint injections. Your surgeon will take special care to minimize tissue damage and blood loss during your surgery. He or she will also prescribe pain medication to help you after surgery.

How does the recovery process work?

Your rehabilitation will begin just a few hours after your surgery. You’ll start to walk and perform your exercises, and the next day, you’ll begin physical therapy. You’re likely to have fewer side effects after surgery and have an easier recovery, both physically and psychologically, than you would after traditional surgery.

Why is it better than traditional surgery?

Rapid Recovery hip and knee replacement surgery offers many advantages over traditional joint replacement surgery, including the following:

• Avoids the use of post-operative opiates for pain and their accompanying side effects
• Gets you back on your feet more quickly
• Allows for quicker full joint motion
• Makes rehabilitation faster
• Requires a shorter length of stay in hospital (often 24 or less, compared to an average of eight days for traditional surgery)
• Results in a reduced rate of complications such as nausea, blood clots and infection
• Results in significantly reduced pain
• Provides increased satisfaction and elimination of psychological issues that can occur with traditional surgery

To find out if you’re a good candidate for a hip and knee replacement surgery, contact us today for a consultation with Dr. Peter K. Sculco in NYC. Dr. Sculco specializes in adult reconstruction of the hip and knee, including Rapid Replacement. He’ll talk with you and conduct any examinations and testing to determine whether a hip and knee replacement is your best option and if you qualify for Rapid Replacement Surgery. Call 212.606.1771 today or fill out the form on this page to request an appointment.