Having Surgery

How long does joint surgery usually take?

Joint surgery generally takes about two to three hours and requires about a three-day hospital stay. Patients are usually admitted on the morning of surgery.

How long will it take for me to recover?

Recovering from surgery depends on your general health before the procedure and the type of joint that is being replaced. The goal during the recovery period is to help you comfortably return to your daily activities.

While most surgical procedures are successful in relieving pain and improving movement, recovery does take time. Most patients need at least three to five months to get their strength and energy back.

During recovery what do I have to do?

Routine care after joint surgery involves wound care, pain management, physical therapy and occupational therapy – all services you can receive conveniently at Newton-Wellesley Hospital.

What will the facilities be like when getting surgery?

The Joint Center surgeons use state-of-the-art laminar flow operating rooms designed with a focus on patient-centered care and successful outcomes. Using the latest tools and technology such as computer-assisted surgery, physicians offer many services including sophisticated minimally invasive procedures.

Surgeons also have access to digital preoperative planning, a technology called e-templating, which utilizes digital images instead of the traditional X-ray films.

The surgeons use various conservative muscle and bone-density techniques and new, improved pain management methods that result in easier faster recovery from joint surgery. Newton-Wellesley also has a dedicated orthopaedic floor with specially trained nurses to take care for patients during their recovery from joint surgery.

Who cares for me during my time at the Hospital?

During your stay at Newton-Wellesley Hospital, your health care team will include your:

• Physician
• Anesthesiologist
• Nursing Staff
• Case management team
• Rehabilitation services staff
• Various other Newton-Wellesley staff

Your health care team will work together to make your hospital stay a positive experience. Each staff member is committed to making your stay comfortable and successful.

During total joint surgery recovery, the focus is on managing pain and keeping the new joint safe in order to get patients active as quickly as possible.

The goal of the case management team, in conjunction with the Joint Center, is to help patients regain their quality of life through successful homecare or rehabilitation.

To learn more about the Kaplan Joint Center or to make an appointment to be seen by one of our providers within 48 hours, please fill out our online appointment request form, call us at 855-KNEE-HIP (855-563-3447) or email us.