The Mutschler Orthopaedic Institute

Joint Replacement Education

You and your physician have made the decision for you to have Joint Replacement Surgery in the near future at Canonsburg General Hospital. Your hospital stay will be less stressful for you and your family if you know what to expect. Dr. Mutschler and the Canonsburg General Hospital staff encourage you and your family to attend one of our classes to help prepare you for your surgery.

THE CLASS WILL PROVIDE THE FOLLOWING:

• Information about osteoarthritis

• Explanation of a joint replacement surgery

• Details of your pre-operative, operative and post operative care

• Information on anesthesia

• Pain management guides for your recovery period

• Physical Therapy information

• The opportunity to address any questions you or your family may have

CLASS SCHEDULING

• Classes will be offered on a bimonthly basis.

• Classes will be on the first Wednesday of the month at 2 p.m.

• Classes will also be offered the third Wednesday of every month at 6:30 p.m. and the second Saturday of every month at 11:00 a.m..

• The classes will be held at Canonsburg General Hospital in the McNary Conference Center.

• Free parking available.

• Classes are free to you and your family member as well as care givers.

• Family and care giver participation is encouraged.

To register, call 1-888-877-5955

View Class Dates

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long is the surgery?

   • Hip replacement - 30 minutes
   • Knee replacement - 40 minutes
   • Bilateral knee replacement - 90 minutes

2. How long will I be in the hospital?

   • Hospitalization for a single joint (knee or hip) is 3 days with home care services or transfer to skilled nursing facility.
   • Hospitalization for a bilateral knee replacement is 4 days then admission to an inpatient Rehabilitation Unit.

3. Will I need to take antibiotics before dental work after a joint replacement?

   • Yes, antibiotics are needed prior to dental work. For any other type of surgery, it is recommended that you make your physician aware that you have had joint replacement surgery.

4. How long will I will be in the recovery room?

   • 30-60 minutes

5. What test will I need to have done before surgery?

   • Tests prior to surgery are age dependent and medication dependent. Blood work, urinalysis and EKG if over 40. Chest x-ray if over age 60 or if you are a smoker.

6. How long after surgery will I be able to drive?

   • You may drive when you feel you are ready, as long as you are not taking pain medication.

7. What type of anesthesia will I have?

   • Typically, a spinal anesthetic will be administered. You will be evaluated by an anesthesiologist to determine the best type of anesthesia for you.