t is perfectly normal to be a bit anxious about undergoing a major surgical procedure such as a hip or knee replacement. Once you have decided on a surgical course of action after going through all other possible options with Dr. Jacob, there are several things you can do prior to surgery to optimize your chances of a positive outcome:
Mental preparation: Take an active role in learning all you can about the surgical procedure you are about to undergo. Also pay attention to all the instructions given by Dr. Jacob and his team making sure you understand their importance. Being aware of all aspects of the surgery will help put you in a more relaxed and positive frame of mind.
Lifestyle preparation: Avoid smoking and excessive drinking as this can interfere with post-surgical healing. Make sure you are eating a healthy diet and your bodyweight is as close as possible to normal. When undergoing hip or knee replacement surgery, even a small amount of weight loss can contribute to greatly to improving the function and life expectancy of the implant.
Physical preparation: Depending on the type of surgery, specific exercises may be prescribed to strengthen the muscles that surround and support the joint. Routine lab tests and imaging studies may be performed one week prior to surgery. Dr. Jacob will also perform a complete physical examination and screening tests to make sure you do not have any medical condition that could negatively impact the outcome of surgery. Any medications you are currently taking may have to stopped or modified and this should be discussed with Dr. Jacob.
Importance of communication: Keeping open the channels of communication to freely discuss all your concerns will help build a trusting relationship and instill greater confidence as the date of surgery approaches.
Dr. Jacob brings cutting edge techniques and technology to the Oklahoma City area. He has extensive training in minimally invasive, rapid recovery joint replacement as well as robotically assisted hip and knee replacement. Dr. Jacob is a pioneer in outpatient joint replacement allowing some patient to go home the same day as their procedure and recover in the comfort of their own home. The cornerstone of Dr. Jacob ’s practice is to have the recovery process be easier, faster and less painful allowing his patients to get back into the game of life. Dr. Jacob is committed to bringing the highest level of orthopedic care while treating each and every patient like a family member. Providing you with patient centered care you can trust.
