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A Patient's Guide to Birmingham Hip
Resurfacing
Preventing Hip Resurfacing Complications
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As with any major surgical procedure, post-operative
complications can occur following hip resurfacing surgery. Below
is a list of some of the more common complications that can
occur after hip resurfacing surgery. This list is not meant to
be all-inclusive.
Thromboembolism
Infection
Pneumonia
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Thromboembolism
This condition, which includes two interrelated conditions—deep vein
thrombosis and pulmonary embolism—occurs when blood clots are formed in
the large veins of the legs. In some cases, these clots can become
dislodged from the veins, travel through the circulatory system, and
become stuck in the critical arteries of the lungs. This scenario,
called a pulmonary embolism, is a serious medical condition.
The following steps may be taken by you and your physician to avoid or
prevent thrombosis:
1. Blood-thinning medication (anticoagulants, aspirin)
2. Elastic stockings (TED hose)
3. Foot elevation to prevent swelling
4. Foot and ankle exercises to optimize blood flow.
5. Pneumatic devices placed on the feet to improve circulation.
IMPORTANT: If you develop
swelling, redness, pain and/or tenderness in the calf muscle, report
these symptoms immediately to your physician.
Infection
Infections occur in a small percentage of patients undergoing hip
resurfacing surgery. Unfortunately, infections can occur even when every
effort is made to prevent them.
The following steps may help to minimize the risk of post-operative
infections:
1. Closely monitor the incision and immediately report signs of redness,
swelling, tenderness, drainage, foul odor, increasing pain or persistent
fever.
2. Always wash your hands before and after handling your incision site,
especially when the sutures are still in place.
Pneumonia
A possible side effect of surgery is the development of pneumonia.
The following steps may help minimize this risk:
1. Deep breathing exercises: A simple analogy to illustrate proper deep
breathing is to: “smell the roses...and blow out the candles.” In other
words, inhale slowly and deeply through your nose, and exhale slowly
through your mouth at a slow and controlled rate. A simple rule of thumb
may be to perform these deep breathing exercises 8-10 times every waking
hour.
2. Coughing: This activity helps to loosen the secretions in your lungs
and excrete them from your pulmonary system.
3. Incentive spirometer: This simple device provides visual feedback
while performing deep breathing exercises. Your nurse or respiratory
therapist will demonstrate the proper technique.
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5/11/2006
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