Preoperative Assessment
Making Sure You Are Safe For Surgery

A total hip replacement is a serious operation which is classed as major surgery. It is graded 4 on the 1- 4 "Grading of Surgical Procedures Severity Scale" with 4 representing the most severe. It is because of that severity that is absolutely essential that your surgeon and anesthetist are confident that you are in the very best possible state of health before they begin.

Do not miss this appointment as there is very little chance of your surgeon going ahead with your operation unless you've attended.

As well as assessing your ability to withstand surgery the assessment will also ensure that you have all the equipment you need at home and that you are aware of the importance of exercising both pre- and post-operatively.

Preoperative Assessment - What it covers?

• Medication List - an assessment of your current medication, in particular, how it might interact with medication (including anesthesia) to be given during and after surgery.
• Physical exam - a check of your general health and suitability for surgery. If a problem is found (or suspected) further medical tests will be carried out.
• Preoperative medical tests - these tests are carried out a few weeks before surgery to allow time for treatment of any problems that may be found.
• Physiotherapy assessment - the physical therapist will explain hip precautions to you and teach you the exercises that you need to do both before and after surgery.
• The Occupational Therapist - the OT will talk you through the process from admission to discharge. They will also carry out a home assessment with you to ensure that you will be safe at home and advice you about how your daily activities will be affected by your hip replacement.