It’s not uncommon for patients to feel anxious before surgery but particularly when it’s a major procedure like a joint replacement. This is the reason that orthopaedic surgeons like Carrothers Orthopaedics ensure that patients have plenty of opportunities to ask questions before their operation. If you are due to undergo joint replacement surgery and are feeling anxious, here are six positive things you can do…
(1) Recognise that you are not alone
It is very common to feel anxious before a surgical procedure, which is why we are sharing this blog. No matter how much your orthopaedic surgeon may reassure you that a joint replacement is a routine procedure (and it is), for you this is a major event and one that requires careful planning. Often it can be helpful to recognise that you are not alone in feeling anxious and that most patients have concerns prior to surgery.
(2) Tell your surgical team about your concerns
It is important that you tell your surgical team about anything that concerns you before the day of your surgery (or even on the day). There are things that can be done to reduce or alleviate your concerns. You might have questions about what sort of surgery is best for you (for example, whether you should have a total or a partial knee replacement), the ideal timing for surgery, or the potential risks (such as the chance of developing an infection, how quickly you might recover, what the likely outcomes might be etc.). You might want information about Mako robotic arm-assisted joint replacement surgery or which type of implant to choose. Whatever it is, don’t keep your concerns to yourself. Your surgical team is there to answer your questions and support you throughout the procedure – from pre-surgery to aftercare.
(3) Make a list of questions
We recommend making a list of questions to ask your surgical team. No question is too small, so jot things down as you go and bring your questions to your pre-assessment appointment so we can go through them with you on the day.
(4) Read up about the procedure you are having
It can be helpful to research and read up about the procedure you are going to have so you know what to expect. Make sure you choose authoritative websites from reputable healthcare providers/clinics or the NHS. Most sites will provide details about what surgery involves as well as information about aftercare and recovery. Remember, this information is generic so always follow the guidance of your own orthopaedic team if it differs from online content.
Read more on our blog > Joint Replacement
(5) Read reviews for your orthopaedic surgeon
Knowing your surgeon has the right level of skill and expertise can help to reassure you if you are due to undergo joint replacement surgery. I Want Great Care is a site that publishes patient healthcare reviews. You can search by doctor, hospital or clinical service and read in patients’ own words about the experience and how they felt about their care. For example, a recent review of Andrew Carrothers (posted on 23 February 2023) praised not only Mr Carrothers’ surgical skill but also his support in helping the patient cope with having surgery very soon after the death of his wife.
Read our reviews from I Want Great Care >
(6) Take time to prepare yourself and your surroundings
As with most things, being well-prepared for surgery helps to make it a smoother and easier experience. Your surgical team will talk to you about pre-habilitation (which means preparing yourself so you are in an optimal state of fitness for surgery) as well as making adaptations to your home environment to support you during your recovery.
Joint replacement can be life-changing
As orthopaedic surgeons, we would always recommend undergoing joint replacement surgery if it has been recommended, rather than continuing to suffer pain or discomfort due to fears about the procedure.
Joint replacement surgery can be life-changing, it can help you to regain your mobility and quality of life.
Talk to your surgeon about any fears or concerns so they can reassure you and support you throughout the process.
Talk to an orthopaedic consultant | Cambridge
We are always happy to provide information and guidance about the various treatment options, both surgical and non-surgical, including Mako robotic arm assisted surgery and conventional surgery.
For more information, please contact us.
Our consultation fees are clearly presented here.
For your convenience, we offer appointments at both Nuffield Hospital Cambridge and Spire Cambridge Lea Hospital.
