FAQ’s
Do you have contracts with medical aids?
Yes we are contracted to numerous medical aids. See the sections under our medical aid network and elective network replacement partners.
How long do I have to stay in hospital after a joint replacement?
On average, about 2-3 days. If you are not mobile enough to be discharged home, there is the option of a subacute (step down) facility. Check your medical aid for coverage.
What do I have to bring with me to the hospital?
Comfortable, loose-fitting clothes that are easy to handle. For instance, elastic-waisted pants. Toiletries, books or magazines for reading, non-slip soled shoes that are easy to get on but not loose. Any other medication (to be handed in to the ward sister so that the doctor can assess any potential conflicts). Dressing gown, ID book or ID card, medical aid card, pre-authorisation number, X-rays and any other documentation your doctor has given you.
What should I NOT bring to the hospital?
Valuables like jewellery, watches, electronics devices, money or credit cards.
Do I have to wear DVT stockings?
These are required for certain big operations to prevent deep venous thrombosis. They also reduce swelling in the limb.
How long do I have to wear the orthopaedic stockings?
Six weeks from the date of operation. These are worn during the day and can be removed at night.
Do I bring crutches with me to the hospital?
If you have , you can bring them. However, if you don’t you will be provided with a pair.
If I book early will I be first on the theatre list?
No. The theatre list it planned for the day of surgery, based on a variety of factors and following important protocols.
What medications can I not take before surgery?
Any Blood thinners like Warfarin, Aspirin, Ecotrin etc must be stopped before surgery. Please ask the doctor and follow his directions closely.
If I have special dietary requirements what should I do?
The hospital kitchen caters for special needs. The ward sister will ask this question on admission.
Can I get a private ward?
Yes, subject to availability. They do however cost more than a shared ward. Some medical aids allow this.
Who is responsible for getting my authorisation from medical aid?
You are. We will provide you with a comprehensive guide to the paperwork. We are available to assist if needed.
If I have problems with my dressing what should I do?
You can contact my rooms ASAP for Esmaralda on weekdays to address your problem. On weekends the hospital casualty unit is open, but try to sort it out during the week.
When can I shower?
Replacements are supplied with waterproof dressing. This means you can shower as soon as the bandages are removed. Arthroscopies and smaller procedures can wet the wound after 1 week. Rather bath during this time.
How often do I need to change the dressing?
Please follow discharge instructions, but it is imperative that the dressings for replacements should not be removed for the first 3 weeks. Contact the rooms if you encounter problems.
Is it good to contact the GP after the operation for queries?
Rather contact my rooms, because we have set protocols to manage your recovery for optimal outcomes.
Do you do day surgery?
Yes, we do.
How soon will I be able to walk after an operation?
Smaller operations will be operated as day cases allowing immediate weight bearing on the operated limb. There might be guidelines as to how much weight your operated limb can handle. This will be instructed by the attending Physiotherapist on the day of the theatre procedure.
Replacement surgery will also be guided in early weight bearing after the operation, depending on the time of day the surgery was completed, you might be walking on the same day as the operation.
How soon will I be able to return to work after an operation?
This is highly dependent on the type of surgery. Smaller operations might allow immediate return or up to 3 weeks sick leave. Bigger operations like replacements require 3-6 weeks of sick leave. You will receive a sick leave certificate that will indicate how much the doctor has allowed for your condition.
Is a follow up appointment important?
Follow up appointments are very important to evaluate your response to the procedure and to get follow up information on your recovery process. You will be supplied with a date for follow-up upon discharge.
Can I drive to the hospital for the operation?
It is advisable that you be brought to the hospital for the surgery. You may be unable to drive after the procedure. The anaesthesia may negatively affect your ability to drive.
Can I live on my own after replacement surgery?
You may struggle the first 3 weeks after the operation, and you may require some form of assistance. Please arrange for some form of assistance after the surgery.
Can I play sport again after replacement surgery?
You will be able to participate in sporting activities after the procedure. This depends on the type of sport, your level of activity before the surgery, and the type of prosthesis. Please discuss this with your surgeon.
Low risk activities: Walking, Golfing, Swimming and Bowls.
Medium risk activities: Tennis and Padel.
High risk activities: Cycling, Squash and Jogging.
When can I drive?
For a replacement surgery usually 3-6 weeks after the procedure. This depends on the type of procedure and type of vehicle. Please confirm with the doctor.