Careful preparation is an important part of achieving an optimal surgical outcome. Our team will guide you through each step to ensure you feel informed, organised and confident prior to your procedure. If at any stage you are uncertain about instructions, please contact our rooms. We are here to assist.
Coordinated Medical Assessment
For some joint replacement and selected reconstructive procedures, you may be reviewed by a peri-operative physician prior to surgery, if required.
The peri-operative physician:
- Assesses your general medical fitness for anaesthesia and surgery
- Optimises existing medical conditions (e.g. blood pressure, diabetes, cardiac history)
- Advises on medication management, including blood thinners
- Provides additional medical oversight during your hospital stay if required
This collaborative approach is intended to make your surgery safer.
Pre-Surgery Coordination
In the week prior to surgery, our team will contact you to confirm:
- Hospital arrival time
- Fasting instructions
- Medication adjustments (if required)
- Final practical details for the day
Medications & Fasting
Certain medications may need to be temporarily withheld before surgery.
These can include:
- Immunomodulators (e.g. biologic agents)
- Anticoagulants and antiplatelet agents (aspirin, clopidogrel and warfarin)
- Selected diabetic medications
- Weight-loss medications (Ozempic, Mounjaro)
Fasting generally commences at:
- Midnight for morning surgery
- 6:30am for afternoon surgery
Skin Preparation & Infection Prevention
To reduce the risk of surgical site infection with knee replacement surgery, please wash your whole body with 4% chlorhexidine wash on each of the three days before surgery, and again on the morning of your procedure. That is four washes in total. For example, if your surgery is on a Wednesday, wash on Sunday, Monday and Tuesday, then again on Wednesday morning.
This preparation is available from most pharmacies.
If you notice any cuts, abrasions, rashes or signs of infection near the operative area, please notify our rooms promptly. In some cases, delaying surgery is the safest course.
If you develop a fever, respiratory symptoms or feel unwell in the days before surgery, please contact us for guidance.
Preparing for the Day
To ensure a smooth admission, please:
- Bring your Medicare and private health insurance details
- Bring an up-to-date list of your medications
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing
- Bring any prescribed walking aids
- Arrange for a responsible adult to accompany you home
We recommend arranging support at home for the first 48–72 hours following surgery.
If you live alone or would like guidance regarding post-operative support, our team can assist with planning.
Optimising Recovery
Your overall health plays an important role in recovery.
- Smoking increases the risk of wound complications and delayed healing; cessation is strongly advised.
- Good control of medical conditions, including diabetes, reduces surgical risk.
- In selected cases, pre-operative physiotherapy may enhance early recovery.
We are committed to providing thorough preparation and attentive care at every stage of your surgical journey.