Please remember to bring along all x-Rays, the concent form that was signed in the consulting room and crutches/walker. The patient will usually be admitted (report at reception) at 06:00 on the day of surgery. Nothing to eat or drink from the previous night 22:00. The sister or nurse in the ward will complete some paperwork in the ward. The patient will be asked to complete a medical information form and an anaesthetic form. An ECG will be done as well

Dr Botha will see the patient in the ward prior to surgery to confirm the procedure and to answer any last questions. The Anaesthetist will see the patient for a pre-operative evaluation and discuss the anaesthetic procedure. The anaesthetic procedure usually involves one or a combination of the following

1. General anaesthetic
2. Spinal or Epidural anaesthetic
3. Femoral nerve block

The surgical procedure will take about 60 minutes. The patient may be in theater for up to 2 hours due to the anaesthetic procedure and preparation.

A Urinary catheter might be inserted prior to or after the procedure. After the procedure the patient will be sent to the highcare unit for post-operative monitoring for at least 24 hours. There will be stocking fitted to both legs as well as calve compression pumps to maintain blood flow in the legs to aid in preventing thrombosis.

The physiotherapist might see the patient in the afternoon to start chest physiotherapy and gentle leg movements.

The physician will also see the patient in highcare after the surgery Medication for pain, nausea and a sleeping tablet will be prescribed. The patient should not hesitate to ask for pain medication or any other assistance

Drains may be put in place and maintained for 24 to 48 hours to draw off any excess blood.