Preparation for a planned hip or knee replacement involves more than choosing an operation date. It brings together the treatment decision, medical assessment and practical arrangements for recovery. This guide is for patients and families preparing for that discussion; it does not replace the instructions given by your treating team.
If you are still exploring treatment options, start with our knee and hip replacement guide. A consultation does not mean surgery is inevitable.
1. Put your information in one place
Prepare a concise record of your health conditions, previous operations, allergies and any past problems with anaesthesia. Include prescription medicines, over-the-counter products and supplements, with their doses and how often you take them. This helps the team review information that may affect surgical planning.
Keep your existing prescriptions, reports and imaging organised for the consultation. Note the everyday activities that are difficult and what you hope treatment will help you do. If you want a family member or trusted person involved, consider bringing them so they can help you remember the discussion.
2. Understand what the medical assessment is for
Pre-operative assessment considers your general health as well as the affected joint. The team may arrange tests or another specialist assessment according to your circumstances. Not everyone needs the same investigations, and assessment is not a guarantee that an operation can proceed on a particular date.
Discuss preparation such as suitable activity, nutrition, smoking cessation and management of existing health conditions with your clinicians. Exercise advice should fit your ability and joint problem rather than an online routine intended for someone else. Tell the team about new illness or changes in your health before the planned procedure.
3. Get an individual medicines and admission plan
Do not stop, start or change medicines because of a general preparation article. Ask the treating team for specific instructions, including what to do about regular medicines and supplements. Follow the fasting and arrival instructions supplied for your procedure rather than assuming a universal timetable.
Before admission, clarify which documents and personal items to bring, whom to contact if something changes, and how you will receive the final instructions. Record unanswered questions so that they can be addressed before surgery.
4. Arrange practical help before returning home
Consider who can assist with meals, shopping, household tasks and travel to follow-up appointments. Discuss work or caring responsibilities early. If you live alone, have stairs at home or cannot arrange support, tell the team before admission so these circumstances can be considered in discharge planning.
Look at the routes between your bed, bathroom and living area. Clear loose rugs, trailing cables and other obstacles, and keep frequently used items within comfortable reach. Ask whether a walking aid or bathroom equipment is appropriate before buying or borrowing it; the equipment and instructions should suit your needs.
5. Know what must be clear before discharge
Ask for a written plan covering medicines, wound care, exercises, walking support, any movement precautions and follow-up. Make sure you know whom to contact about concerns and which symptoms require urgent help. Hospital stay and the support needed afterwards vary; another patient's timetable may not apply to you.
Recovery includes learning to move safely and gradually rebuilding function. Driving, work and more demanding activities should be discussed with the treating team rather than planned around a promised recovery deadline.
Continue the discussion
For procedure-specific information, read our total knee replacement guide or total hip replacement guide. You can also book a consultation at Hari Ram Kohli Memorial Hospital, Dehradun. Appointments are recommended to help reduce waiting; walk-ins are welcome.