Patient Education

Frequently Asked Questions

Before Surgery

• What kinds of tests will I need before surgery?
  
• Will I need to donate blood before surgery?
  
• Are there any medicines I need to take before surgery?
  
• Are there medications I need to stop taking before surgery?
  
• How long will I be in the hospital?
  
• What should I bring to the hospital?
  
• When should I arrive at the hospital for my surgery?
  
• Can my family stay with me during this time?
  
• Will anyone contact me before surgery to discuss any concerns I may have?

Day of Surgery

• What type of anesthesia will I have?
  
• How long will the surgery take?
  
• Will the surgeon see my family immediately after surgery is completed?

After Surgery

• What will my hospital stay be like?
  
• Will I see my doctor regularly while in the hospital?
  
• When will I be ready for discharge?
  
• How will I know whether to go home or to another facility for further rehab?

Discharge Day: Recovery

• What can I expect the first few days after discharge?
  
• Do I need someone to stay full-time with me when I go home?
  
• When can I go up and down stairs?
  
• Will I need pain medicine after I'm discharged from the hospital?
  
• How long will I need to use my walker or crutches?
  
• When can I go outside?
  
• When can I drive?
  
• When will I be able to return to work?
  
• When will I be able to participate in sports activities?
  
• When will I be able to have sexual intercourse after my surgery?