Diana K. Lee, MD

Online Joint Replacement Class

Learn what to expect before, during, and after surgery.

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Dental Checkup

Cavities and gum disease, as well as dental procedures and routine dental cleanings themselves, may increase your risk of an infection in your new hip or knee. Infections with hip and knee replacements in place are a serious issue that often require additional major surgery.

Avoid routine dental cleanings and procedures for 6 weeks before and 3 months after your joint replacement.

Important: If you have any cavities or outstanding dental work (besides routine dental cleanings), those should be treated by your dentist at least 6 weeks before surgery.

Once you are cleared by your surgeon to go back to the dentist after your joint replacement surgery, you will be prescribed an antibiotic to take before dental procedures for 2 years after surgery.

Stay Healthy

Staying healthy in the month before surgery is important as infections like UTIs, respiratory infections (e.g. cold, flu), and skin infections can increase your risk of complications. If you develop any signs of infection, please contact our office immediately.

Smoking and Marijuana

Smoking and marijuana use can significantly increase your risk of infection and other complications after surgery. You should stop for at least 6 weeks before and 6 weeks after surgery.

Pre-Book Physical Therapy

Physical therapy (PT) is a very important part of your rehabilitation process after surgery, but PT clinics often have long wait lists. To prevent any delays in your recovery, our surgical scheduling team will place a PT referral before surgery. Please contact your preferred PT provider immediately to schedule your first visit for about 5 days after surgery.

Short Term Disability

If you are still working and plan to apply for Short Term Disability, please notify your Manager or Human Resource Department once you know your date for surgery and forward any necessary forms to our office for completion.

Most patients will need up to 3 months off of work to recover, but your specific job duties will also determine when you can return to work.

Caregiver Support

It's a good idea to have someone stay with you for the first week or so after surgery to help with things like grocery shopping, preparing meals, getting to and from the bathroom, showering, picking things up off the floor, and making sure you don't fall.

Set Up Your Home

Preparing your home before surgery will make your recovery safer and more comfortable. Here are some important steps to take:

• Remove all throw rugs and electrical cords from walkways to prevent tripping
• Clear paths so you can walk around safely with a walker or crutches
• Move items you use often to counter height so you don't have to bend down or reach up
• Set up a recovery station (bed, bathroom, kitchen) on the main floor if possible, or consider staying with a family member or friend if your home has a particularly challenging layout
• Stock up on groceries and prepare some meals ahead of time to freeze

Essential Equipment

The following equipment will be needed for your recovery after surgery and is typically covered by most insurance policies. Our surgical scheduling team will submit a referral and help coordinate with you to ensure you have everything you need before surgery.

Front Wheel Walker

NOT a four-wheel walker. A front-wheel walker provides better stability and control during recovery.

3-in-1 Bedside Commode

This versatile piece of equipment can be used as a raised toilet seat, a standalone bedside commode, or a safety frame around your existing toilet. It helps you avoid bending your hip or knee too much during the early recovery period.

Optional Items

Can be helpful but may not be covered by insurance:

• Ice/cold therapy machine
• Grabber/reacher tool
• Long-handled shower sponge
• Shower grab bar
• Shower chair
• Handheld shower hose

Local Durable Medical Equipment (DME) Suppliers

Temporary Placard

If you anticipate needing accessible parking during your recovery, we can provide the necessary paperwork for a temporary disabled parking placard upon request for a maximum of 6 months after surgery.