Pre-operative
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What materials are used in the replacement implants?
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The replacement parts are made out of metal and plastic. Typically a titanium stem is inserted into the canal of your proximal femur (thigh-bone), and a cobalt-chrome or ceramic ball is mated to the stem. A titanium or tantalum shell is pressed into your acetabuulum (pelvic socket), and a polyethylene plastic piece is inserted into the shell.
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I have a metal allergy. Am I still a joint replacement candidate?
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True metal allergies are rare, even in patients who develop rash when skin is in prolonged contact with metal. Moreover, the titantium and tantalum used in joint replacement implants are biologically inert. If you believe you have a true metal allergy, testing by an allergist doctor can be performed, which usually confirms that an allergy is not present.
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Which implants would be used for my hip replacement?
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Many hip implants exist on the market. Dr. Lee has extensive experience with multiple different systems. Dr. Lee only uses implants with proven track records that have stood up to the test of time. Most major implant companies have at least one. The two Dr. Lee most commonly uses are Zimmer and Depuy.
Post-operative
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Are sutures or staples used for my incision?
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You will have dissolvable suture reinforced by skin glue for your incision. (Closure technique for revision surgeries may differ.)
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Can I shower after my surgery?
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Yes you may shower as soon as you would like after your surgery, provided your impervious surgical dressing remains sealed over your incision. Do not submerge it in a bath or pool until we discuss it at your follow-up appointment.
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How long should my dressing stay on?
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You have an impervious dressing that protects your incision. Please leave it in place for 10 days. If your incision is dry, you may leave it open to air and continue to shower.
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How soon after surgery can I put weight on my leg with the hip replacement?
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You can walk on your hip replacement immediately after surgery.
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How long will my stay in the hospital be after the surgery?
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The majority of patients are able to discharge home the day after surgery.
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Patients who meet specific criteria may be eligible to go home the same day of surgery.
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What precautions do I need to exercise with my hip replacement?
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This is surgeon and surgical approach specific.
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For Dr. Lee's anterior approach hip replacements, there are no specific precautions.
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For Dr. Lee's posterior approach hip replacements, he asks that you stay vigilant about posterior hip precautions indefinitely, but especially for the first 3 months after surgery. An easy way to remember this is avoid putting your lower extremity in a position where you can see the outside of your ankle; for instance, shaving the outside of the leg near the ankle (without a mirror) is a precarious position.