Total joint replacement is a surgical procedure that is done to relieve pain and maintain or increase motion in a damaged or diseased joint. 
 

Hip Replacement: The worn ball and socket of the hip joint are removed and replaced with a prosthesis (artificial hip joint) that is similar to the once normal ball and socket it replaces.

Knee Replacement: The knee itself is not replaced; an artificial substitute for the cartilage is inserted on the ends of the bone. A metal alloy is used on the femur and a plastic spacer on the tibia and kneecap. This creates a new smooth cushion and a joint that does not hurt with movement.

A Checklist Before Your Surgery
From the time your surgery is scheduled until the day of your surgery, there are several things you will want to do and think about:

• Discuss with your doctor the risks and benefits of having the surgery
• Physical Exam, if ordered by your physician
• Do any pre-operative exercises recommended by your physician
• Contact your insurance company for pre-authorization, pre-certification or for a second opinion or referral form as needed
• Talk to your family about the care you will need when you return home
• Have your information ready for pre-registration or complete the online pre-registration form
• Review your education materials

What To Bring

• Copy of your Advance Directive or Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare; bring those if you have them. Sanford USD Medical Center can provide information if you need it.
• Current home medications
• Walking shoes
• Comfortable fitting clothes
• Walker or crutches, if you have them
• Any necessary medical equipment (i.e., CPAP, dialysis machines, etc.)
• Small amount of cash if you want to purchase the Argus Leader

Please leave your valuables at home, as you will be spending time in therapy; and they will be unattended in your room!