At Rockhill Orthopaedics, we recognize that surgery often creates concern and anxiety for a patient. Our goal is to make your surgical experience a positive one, both before and after your procedure. While our staff is always available to answer any specific questions you might have prior to surgery, the following reminders will help as you prepare for your upcoming surgery.

When your physician recommends surgery, talk to him or her about what to expect before, during and after the procedure. Make sure all your questions are answered. The more you know and understand about the procedure, the better prepared you’ll be after the surgery and your recovery will go more smoothly. Often times, your postoperative appointment can be scheduled at the same time your surgery is scheduled. For some surgeries, you may be directed to call your physician’s office after surgery to schedule the first post-op appointment.

Our office will make the necessary calls and relay any financial information to you prior to surgery. You may want to contact your insurance company to confirm coverage, co-pays or deductibles.

Some surgeons may require preoperative clearance, which is usually obtained from your primary care physician. Your surgeon will tell you if pre-surgical clearance is needed.

During the weeks leading up to your surgery, various providers will be asking for the same information: insurance coverage, medical history, current medications and medical directives. Having this information readily available makes the process go smoothly.

After you’ve awakened, you will be given ice chips or fluids to drink. Your family will be able to see you at some point during this postoperative period. If needed, pain medication will be given. Upon discharge, you will receive oral and written discharge instructions.

Please remember, following anesthesia, your coordination, judgement and ability to react may be impaired for a while after surgery. You should not drive for at least 24 hours postoperatively unless otherwise permitted by your physician.

Remember to follow all your doctor’s instructions when you return home and keep any scheduled post-operative appointments or remember to call and make your postoperative appointment. An outpatient surgery nurse will call you the day after your surgery to see how you’re doing and try to answer any general questions you may have. Unless otherwise instructed, leave on any dressings (if applicable) at the surgical site and make sure the dressings remain clean, dry and intact. Removing dressings without being told to do so by your surgeon can affect the outcome of your surgery. If you have specific questions regarding your surgery, or have concerns or problems following surgery, you should contact your surgeon’s office.

Unlike some surgeries, physical therapy and rehabilitation will be critical to the success of your surgical outcome. You may be given post-operative physical therapy instructions during the pre-surgical office visit with your surgeon. Actual physical therapy may start as early as just a few hours after surgery. If you’re an inpatient in the hospital, and your physician has ordered PT for you, a physical therapist will come to your room for therapy or you will be taken to the physical therapy facility in the hospital. Upon discharge, your physician will provide specific instructions on the number of physical therapy sessions per week you are to attend, as well as to provide orders to the therapist on the therapy modalities appropriate to your recovery. Therapy progress reports will be provided to your physician prior to each of your follow-up appointments.