Preparing for hip or knee replacement surgery

• 1

  Pre-operative evaluation

  Blood tests, an ECG and internal-medicine or cardiology clearance depending on your age and conditions. Diabetes and blood pressure should be well controlled before surgery.

• 2

  Dental check-up

  An active dental infection can seed bacteria to the new joint. Treat cavities or gum infections before surgery.

• 3

  Stop smoking

  Tobacco delays healing and increases the risk of infection and implant problems. Quitting several weeks before surgery measurably lowers that risk.

• 4

  Prehabilitation

  Strengthening the muscles around the joint before surgery («prehab») makes rehabilitation easier. Weight management also reduces load on the implant.

• 5

  Review your medications

  Report all medications and supplements. Some (blood thinners, anti-inflammatories) need adjustment before surgery — always under medical guidance.

• 1

  Clear the walkways

  Remove loose rugs and cables, light the hallways well, and keep the routes to the bathroom and bedroom clear.

• 2

  Live on one floor

  If your home has stairs, arrange to sleep and bathe on a single level for the first days.

• 3

  A safe bathroom

  A shower chair and grab bars help a lot in the first weeks; a raised toilet seat is useful after hip replacement.

• 4

  Support and logistics

  Arrange who will accompany you on surgery day and during the first days at home, and leave prepared meals ready.

Patients from the United States and Canada regularly travel to Costa Rica for joint replacement. Your imaging and records can be reviewed remotely before you travel, and your stay is planned around the surgery and early recovery. See the medical tourism guide and the cost overview.

You’ll receive fasting instructions and which medications to take that morning. Surgery is performed under regional or general anesthesia, and with modern rapid-recovery protocols most patients are up and walking the same day or the next.

How long will I stay in the hospital?

It depends on your case; with current protocols the stay is usually short — one to two nights for many patients.

Do I need physical therapy before surgery?

It isn’t always mandatory, but strengthening beforehand makes rehabilitation easier. Dr. Ravery will recommend a plan for your case.

Who performs the surgery?

Dr. Aria Ravery Morovati, an orthopedic surgeon fellowship-trained in hip and knee replacement at the University of Toronto, operating at Costa Rica’s leading private hospitals. Learn about his training.

References

Based on guidance from the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) and the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons (AAHKS). Content reviewed by Dr. Aria Ravery Morovati, orthopedic surgeon.