You are asked to provide your surgeon with information regarding:

• Your general health
• Medications that you are taking
• Allergies.
• Previous operations.
• Bleeding disorders.
• Other bone and joint problems.

If you have any infections, your surgery may need to be postponed.

Medications:

You should cease taking any anti-inflammatory (arthritis) tablets, or any medications containing aspirin, three weeks before coming to hospital. (Note; if aspirin has been prescribed by your cardiologist check with your doctor before discontinuing use)

You may need paracetamol to help with pain relief during this time.

Diet:

Diet is especially important in times of stress such as Surgery. Be sure to include as many iron rich foods in your diet as possible, example: red meats, liver, beans, nuts and dried fruits.

If you are overweight, reducing weight will generally help your exercise program, make you feel better and reduce extra stress on your knee. Avoid crash dieting however as this is not healthy prior to surgery.

Blood transfusion:

Total joint replacement is major surgery, so you may require blood transfusion. Up to three units of blood may be needed.

Patients wishing to pre-donate autologous blood, should discuss this with their surgeon, and then arrange an appointment with Fortis Blood Bank.