Our clinics provide a central intake and standardized referral process for patients who are potential candidates for elective total hip or knee replacement surgery, also known as arthroplasty. An intake team triages referrals based on appropriateness, medical fitness, and urgency.
A referring physician and patient can choose their preferred surgeon or the next available surgeon, which can help reduce the wait time for an appointment. Patients who are a surgical candidate are provided with pre-operative education and support to ensure they are in optimal health and to reduce the risk of complications.
Before Surgery
Before deciding to have surgery, review the following resources to guide you in your decision and to get ready for surgery:
- Before, During and After Hip and Knee Replacement Surgery – A Patient’s Guide (Available in Punjabi, Persian, Traditional and Simplified Chinese upon request)
Surgical Wait Times
It may be helpful for you to review the BC Surgical Wait Times for hip or knee replacements to decide where and when you want surgery. Your wait time can vary, however most people are offered a surgical date within 6 months after you sign consent for surgery. You are notified approximately 4 weeks in advance with a surgical date. You are on the cancellation list unless you do not want to be contacted for last minute dates or have any scheduled travel plans. Please notify the staff if you have any plans that may delay surgery. There may be additional tests and appointments to attend prior to your surgery. Use the time while you are waiting to improve your health and fitness.
Exercise
Being in optimal health and fitness prior to surgery can quicken your recovery. The exercise guides below can help you strengthen your muscles. You will be referencing these guides during your recovery in the hospital, at home, and at your out-patient physiotherapy appointments.
After Surgery
The average length of stay in the hospital after a hip or knee replacement is between eight hours and two days. It is important to be mentally and physically prepared before you come into the hospital. If you feel that you may need additional help after surgery, refer to the Home Health Service Line.
Access
Eligibility
18 and over.
Referral
Physician referral required. Triage may include a telephone assessment by an intake nurse to confirm the need for surgery.