What other postoperative instructions are given to patients with total hip joint replacements?
Patients will continue to use supportive devices as monitored and recommended by the therapist and attending physician. Medications are likely to be given to further prevent blood clots in the legs. These include warfarin (Coumadin) or aspirin medications. Occasionally, heparin (enoxaparin [Lovenox]) can be given by self-injection. Medications are given for pain, sleep, and occasionally for muscle relaxation. Gradually, patients become more confident and less dependent on supportive devices. Patients are instructed to look for signs of infection including swelling, warmth, redness, or increased pain in or around the surgical site. The patient should notify the doctor’s office immediately if these changes are noted or if there is injury to the hip. The wound site will be inspected regularly by the attending physician. The sutures, which are usually staples, are removed several weeks after the operation.
