A few tips for those heading abroad for Hip Replacement surgery (THJR). These are a combination of what I tell our clients coming to New Zealand for surgery, what they tell me, and what our surgeons and physical therapists advise.

1. Choosing accommodation

If you are not using a medical travel facilitator to book your accommodation (or even if you are in some cases) make sure that your accommodation is suitable for someone who is having hip replacement surgery. You need to make sure that you don’t have to navigate flights of stairs on crutches or that you don’t have to step into a bathtub to have a shower. Also bear in mind that low seating is not appropriate for people with recent hip replacements – especially if you are tall.

2. Airports

Ask your facilitator or travel agent to request wheelchair transfers for you in transit. While you may not think you need a wheelchair, sometimes it is a long walk between terminals and you may need some assistance with luggage etc.

3. Bring a knapsack

It makes life on crutches so much easier.

4. Bring slip on shoes

Unless you have a very patient traveling companion, you may struggle with laces.

5. Bring Skirts or loose fitting trousers

It will make life easier and be more comfortable than tight fitting clothing after surgery.

6. Talk to your surgeon

Arrange a telephone call before traveling to your destination. Find out what you can expect afterward in terms of recovery and mobility. Find out how long before you can get your wound wet (different surgeons have different perspectives on this). Then plan any additional travel with this in mind.

7. In flight DVT prevention.

This is important both before and after surgery. Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol, make sure to get up and walk regularly on the flight. Talk to your surgeon about preventative measures for the flight home.

8. Recuperative Care.

This is VERY important. For our New Zealand clients we provide exercise equipment in the hotel rooms so that our physical therapists can work out a regime that gives you optimum results for your surgery and recovery. Be concerned if your overseas provider makes no mention of it.

9. Don’t skimp on the pain medication.

While you don’t want to overdo it either, being in pain can interfere with your post operative recuperation and physical therapy regime. Make sure your doctor explains clearly when and how you should take any prescribed pain medication.

10. Find out what sort of implant.

Will be used in your surgery. Implants can vary greatly in both price and quality. The general rule is you get what you pay for. Make sure you are comfortable and confident that you are getting a reputable brand of implant and that it is appropriate to your needs. Talk to your surgeon about the different types and what is best for you.

Note that these are suggestions only and should not replace any advice given to you by your health professional

Have you had or are you considering having hip replacement surgery either at home or abroad?

How do you decide on a hospital or surgeon?

Do you have any questions?

Do you have any tips for others?

Please leave a comment below. I’d love to hear from you.

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1. Medical travel food for thought.