Before Surgery

Pre-Assessment Unit

All patients need to attend the Pre-Assessment Unit before their surgery, for blood tests and risk assessment.

Joint School

This is a free educational programme run by Whitfield Clinic, aimed at pre-operative education and answering any questions you may wish to ask. To book your place, call Jo Breheny on 051 319 845. Patient satisfaction rates improve the more they understand about their surgery and when they have realistic expectations. I also recommend you explore educational websites.

Showering

Prior to admission, I recommend you shower twice a day for three days, cleaning the skin about your groin gently with normal soap. I also advise that you take a shower when admitted to Whitfield Clinic.

Hospital Stay

Patients are typically admitted on the morning of their surgery and need 3 - 4 days in hospital, for pain control, while working with physiotherapy. Before theatre, you will be fasting, so we may give you a sugar drink. You will also receive some painkillers (pre-emptive analgesia) before coming to theatre.

Upon Discharge

You can be discharged once your pain is controlled and you have reached our physiotherapy targets including safe use of crutches on stairs. You will be given a prescription for pain relief and Aspirin and advised to attend your GP for clip removal around 12 days after the surgery. Once your wound is healed, you can exercise in a pool or on a stationary bicycle. It is okay to sleep on either side with pillows between your legs. Everyone is sore initially, but in general the pain is very manageable with routine painkillers.

You must use your two crutches, until I see you again at 6 weeks with new x-rays. I suggest it is best to have someone at home with you for the first two weeks and I do not recommend driving until you are off both crutches.