Hip replacement surgery effectively alleviates chronic hip pain and improves mobility. It replaces damaged bone and cartilage with prosthetic components, allowing individuals to regain function and enhance their quality of life. Understanding the hospital stay helps prepare patients for this important surgery.
Average Hospital Stay
Hospital stays after hip replacement have significantly decreased due to advancements in surgical techniques and recovery protocols. Most patients now stay one to three days. Some healthy individuals may even be discharged the same day. This reduction is largely attributed to enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) pathways, which optimize patient care from before the operation through recovery.
Factors Affecting Stay Length
Several elements influence hospital stay length. Patient-specific factors like overall health, age, and pre-existing conditions (e.g., diabetes, heart disease) affect recovery speed. Older patients or those with higher American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) grades may experience longer stays. Surgical factors also play a role, including the specific approach and whether it is a primary or revision surgery. Post-operative progress, such as effective pain control, independent mobilization, and absence of complications like blood clots or infection, are important determinants of discharge readiness.
What to Expect During Your Stay
During the hospital stay, a structured care plan supports immediate recovery. Pain management focuses on comfort and early movement using various medications, and patients begin mobilizing soon after surgery, often the same day or the day after, with physical therapist assistance. These therapists guide patients through exercises, helping them get out of bed, walk with assistive devices like walkers or crutches, and practice essential movements such as climbing stairs. Occupational therapists help patients practice daily activities safely, preparing them for home, while the medical team monitors for complications like blood clots and infection, and provides wound care instructions. Patients receive intravenous fluids until they can drink independently, and their diet progresses to solid foods by the day after surgery.
Planning for Post-Hospital Recovery
Discharge planning begins early to ensure a smooth transition to the next recovery phase. The team determines the most suitable discharge destination, often home with support or a short-term rehabilitation facility. Continued physical therapy, through home visits or outpatient sessions, is important to regain strength and mobility. Managing pain with prescribed medications, performing wound care, and using assistive devices are important aspects of home recovery, along with follow-up appointments with the orthopedic surgeon to monitor healing and assess the new hip’s function. Preparing the home by removing trip hazards and arranging assistance with daily tasks supports recovery and safety.