Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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How do I make an Appointment?

Simply call us at during our working hours or you can request an appointment online using this form.

Do I need a referral to make an appointment?

We are happy to see anyone! If you don’t have a referral, please check with your insurance company to see if a referral is necessary.

What to bring for your initial consultation?

For your initial consultation, you will need to bring a referral letter from your physician if necessary.

Here is check list for your initial consultation

• Driver’s License or a valid ID
• Insurance information
• Referral Letter (if required)
• X-rays, MRIs, CT scans etc. and any other relevant information (please do not just bring the report, rather ask for a CD with the images for appropriate review and interpretation during your evaluation)
• List of medications (if any)

We encourage you to come to your initial consultation with a written list of questions to ensure you don’t forget to ask them when you are seeing the doctor.

How long do I need time off work after the surgery?

The post-operative recovery period varies based on the surgery. Generally, it is recommended patients take two weeks off work to recover from any surgery and to resume light duty following resumption of work. Your surgeon will give you specific instructions to follow for a successful recovery.

How long before I can resume driving?

You should wait at least one week before driving after surgery. The effects of anesthetic and surgery can affect judgment and reflexes during the first week following your surgery. Once you are off narcotic medication, able to ambulate independently and have enough strength to stop the car appropriately you should be able to return to driving. Patients with manual transmissions may require additional time off. Your surgeon will provide more specifics for your particular situation.

When can I resume exercise?

Your doctor will instruct you about post-treatment exercises – the type and the duration to be followed. You may be referred to a physical therapist to help with strengthening and range of motion exercises following surgery.

Who do I contact after hours?

There will be a point of contact 24 hours a day for any concerns you may have. You will be provided with contact details following your treatment.

Do I need to donate blood before surgery? 

Donating your blood prior to surgery is not required. Recent research shows that shorter surgical times, improved anesthesia techniques, and new medications to prevent bleeding have made needing a transfusion very rare. 

Will my insurance cover the surgery?

Once your surgery has been scheduled, your surgeon’s office will obtain insurance authorization for the surgery. Contact your insurance company for specific insurance coverage information, including copay and deductible costs. 

What kind of assistance will be needed? 

Initially, you may need help with cooking, housework, shopping, laundry, bathing, and transportation (especially first 1-2 weeks). Start recruiting family members, friends or neighbors to stock fridge with microwavable meals. Also, plan visits to help with chores, and help with medication management.  

How do I file my disability paperwork? 

First, decide if your employer has forms or if you plan on filing for state disability. Second, provide the office with the paperwork to file (Possible fee).  

Do I need a medical or cardiac clearance before surgery?

We will usually have you get a clearance with your primary care doctor to make sure they consider you optimized for surgery. We may obtain further tests depending on you medical condition or obtain further referrals based on your health.

How long is the surgery? 

The average surgery time is 1-1.5 hours. The time you will be in the operating room is longer due to anesthesia and prep time.  

How long will I be in the hospital? 

Most patients go home the same day of surgery or stay 1 night for total joint replacement. Almost all patient go home with family or friends; however, the stay could be longer depending on surgery and recovery. It is rare for discharge to a skilled nursing facility (SNF). The hospital's case manager will work with you to determine best course for discharge. 

What approach do I use for hip replacement?

I typically will use a direct anterior or anterolateral approach. In some patients with prior surgery, I may utilize a posterior approach. Each approach has its advantages and disadvantages and I am happy to discuss what is best for you.

What type of anesthesia will I get for my joint replacement?

The options include general anesthesia and spinal anesthesia. I typically prefer spinal anesthesia as their is less risk of medical complications, reduced pain postoperatively,  and decreased blood loss. Some patients may not be great candidates for spinal anesthesia such as patients with prior spine fusion. I encourage you to discuss your options with your anesthesiologist.

What if I have trouble sleeping; is this normal? 

This is a common complaint following surgery but tends to resolve quickly. Non-prescription remedies include Tylenol PM, Benadryl, or supplement such as melatonin – please consult your pharmacist or primary care provider.  Nerve medication or a muscle relaxer may also help with this.

Will I set off the metal detectors at the airport? 

Yes, you will probably set off the security monitors; however, most airports have scanners that can visualize the implant and further inspection is not needed. Be proactive and let them know you have a knee replacement. No letters or documents are accepted or needed. 

If I feel constipated, what should I do? 

This is a common problem following surgery, usually due to limited activity and side effects of narcotics. We recommend stool softeners/laxatives such as Senna, Colace and MiraLax packets; decrease narcotic use; drink water; eat prunes or drink prune juice; walk regularly; increase fiber in diet; and avoid straining on the toilet as this can cause you to faint. Your bowel movements may be irregular at first, but they will gradually return to normal. You should have a bowel movement at least once every 3 days.

Do I need Physical Therapy?  

Many patients find it helpful. You may be sent with home physical therapy for 2 weeks and be transitioned to outpatient PT. I typically recomment outpatient PT at 2-3 weeks after surgery for patients with total knee replacement to regain your motion. The most important therapy after knee and hip replacement surgery is walking and motion exercises. 

How long will it take to regain my leg strength? 

Most patients will notice improvements throughout the rehabilitation process. However, if your arthritis was longstanding and your function was severely limited prior to surgery, it may take up to 1 year before you regain your full leg strength.  

Should I use ice or heat after surgery? 

Ice is very helpful during recovery when there is swelling and warmth around the knee. Use the ice pack 15-20 minutes, 4-5 times a day; it is best to combine with elevation (prop pillow(s) under ankle while reclining to decrease swelling and therefore pain in the leg

When can I drive? 

On average, it is 1-4 weeks. Once you are off narcotics, ask the surgeon’s permission if you have knee precautions, and you feel safe to react to hit the breaks to avoid an accident. 

How soon may I travel by airplane? 

You should avoid travel on airplane for 6 weeks after surgery. If you cannot avoid airline travel, discuss your plans with your surgeon.  

Do I need prophylactic antibiotics before routine dental cleanings? 

We typically do not require antibiotics before routine dental work after a joint replacement, if 6-12 weeks have passed from surgery date; however, if dental procedure is due to infection or more involved, then discuss treatment with dentist and the office. Infections in the mouth can travel to the knee joint. 

When can I return to work? 

In general for a desk job, anywhere from 1-6 weeks, for a more laborintensive job, it could be 3-4 months.