So your orthopedic surgeon has recommended joint replacement surgery for your condition – likely due to severe arthritis, osteoporosis, or injury. Not everyone is a suitable candidate for the procedure, so if you are, you can rest assured that it has had decades of improvements and now provides outstanding results.
Today, joint replacement surgery can be a minimally invasive outpatient procedure, thanks to incredible advances in arthroscopy. It is quick, causes minimal bleeding, has a low risk of infection, and usually enables a speedy recovery time. Most patients who undergo this surgery go on to enjoy life with greatly reduced pain and improved joint function.
Before you have joint replacement surgery, you will be asked to undergo several tests in order to have a safe and successful operation. Let’s talk about some of the tests that are generally required before having joint replacement surgery and why they are performed.
Pre-Surgery Tests for a Joint Replacement
Your surgeon will order routine lab tests before the surgery in order to prevent possible complications. They are likely to include the following:
Complete Blood Count
Having a complete blood count (CBC) checks your health by evaluating several factors. First is your red blood cell count, which affects your body’s ability to transport oxygen. A complete blood count also includes a white blood cell count, which can diagnose infections. (A white blood cell count will be much higher if your body is fighting an infection.)
The CBC includes an analysis of your blood’s hemoglobin (protein) levels, plasma ratios, and platelets. Your CBC needs to be healthy before having surgery of virtually any kind.
Cone and Platelet Analyzer (CPA)
Need content (Blood test for predicting bleeding times in a patient)
Chest X-Ray
An X-ray is necessary to diagnose heart conditions, abnormal heart rates, breathing issues, and problems with the lungs. These issues could cause complications during or after surgery if not discovered beforehand.
Electrocardiogram
Often abbreviated as EKG for its original German spelling (elektrokardiogramm), an electrocardiogram measures your heart’s electrical activity and heartbeat health. It can diagnose any heart issues such as damaged heart muscle, heart murmurs, and abnormal rhythms.
Joint Replacement Surgery in Watertown
If you need to have joint replacement surgery or would like an evaluation by an experienced doctor, our board-certified orthopedic surgeons here at the North Country Orthopaedic Group will determine whether you are right for the procedure. We will offer the least-invasive procedures possible to help alleviate your pain or movement issues.
If you would like to schedule a consultation, contact us today by calling us at (315) 782-1650. You can also fill out our online appointment request form now. We look forward to seeing you here.
