Once you have decided to have surgery, the doctor will need to write orders to specify the procedure and any tests you may need prior to surgery. Our office has surgery coordinators to assist you with all appointments related to your surgery.
Depending on the type of surgery and your medical history will determine where your surgery will be performed. The majority of our outpatient surgeries are done at the
Rocky Mountain Surgical Center . All of our inpatient surgeries are done at
Bozeman Deaconess Hospital.
We can assist you with the billing of your insurance. However, it is your responsibility to contact your insurance company. We encourage our patients to contact their insurance company prior to any surgery to verify eligibility, coverage, and pre-authorization requirements.
If you have any questions, regarding your upcoming surgery, please contact our surgery coordinators at 406-587-0122.
Total Hip & Total Knee Replacement Surgery
Where are your going upon discharge from the hospital?
You need to decide before surgery if you are going home or to an extended care facility.
Insurance: It is your responsibility to contact your insurance company to determine the benefits available to you after discharge from the hospital.
If you are planning to go home after surgery it will be necessary to have someone stay with you for 5-7 days after surgery. If you need home care the discharge planner from the hospital will make those arrangements.
If you do not have someone to stay with you for the 5-7 days after surgery you will need to go to an extended care facility. If you have a certain facility in mind, please call ahead with your name and date of surgery.
Someone from discharge planning will meet with you prior to leaving the hospital to discuss and assist you with any needs. If you have additional questions you may contact he discharge planner at (406) 585-5000, ext. 1729.
Here is a list of extended care facilities in the Bozeman Area:
Evergreen Health & Rehabilitation Center
321 N. 5th Ave.
Bozeman, MT 59715
(406)587-4404
Gallatin Rest Home
1221 W. Durston Rd.
Bozeman, MT 59715
(406) 582-3300
Mountain View Care Center
205 N. Tracy Ave.
Bozeman, MT 59715
(406) 587-2218
What time is my surgery?
Bozeman Deaconess Hospital wil call you between 11:00am and 2:00pm one working day before surgery. If you don not have a surgery time by 3:00pm call 522-1600.
What are my eating instructions before surgery?
Nothing to eat or drink after midnight prior to your surgery. This includes water, hard candy, breath mints, gum and chewing tobacco.
Can I take blood pressure, heart, & seizure medication the day of surgery?
Yes, with just a sip of water.
How long will I be in the hospital?
2-3 days
When can I shower?
You can shower 2-3 days after surgery. You may use soap and water over incision, nothing else. NO TUB BATHS & NO HOT TUBS.
How long do I have to wear my Ted hose?
3 weeks
When do my stitches or staples come out?
Stitches & Staples normally come out between 6-14 days after surgery depending on the type of surgery you have had. Your post-operative appointment date & time will be on the appointment worksheet that was given to you.
Why do I have to take Coumadin?
Prevention of blood clots.
How long do I have to take Coumadin?
3 weeks, followed by 3 months of aspirin
What mg of aspirin do I take?
81 mg
Can I take ALL my regular medicine after surgery?
No. You cannot take Hormone supplements, Herbs, and Vitamins. Once Coumadin is discontinued you may continue to take all medicine.
How do I get more pain medication?
Give our office TWO DAY NOTICE Call 587-0122, option 5. Leave your name, Date of Birth, Doctor, Pharmacy, Name of prescription, and Strength. Some medication cannot be called in to your pharmacy and the prescription will need to be picked up.
When can I drive?
Discretion should be used regarding your pain and leg movement for break pedal control. We will restrict driving while you are taking narcotic pain medication. Prior to driving in town or on the highway find an empty parking lot to practice.
When can I go back to work?
This will be determined after your 4 week follow up appointment.
How long for recovery?
6 months to a year. Most people are back to normal within 3 months.
When can I fly on an airplane?
1 month.
There may be an increased risk of blood clots if you fly within 3 months after surgery. A small dose of aspirin (81mg) might be all that is necessary to protect you from a blood clot. Check with your primary care physician before taking aspirin, since it can interact with many prescription medications
TOTAL JOINT IDENTIFICATION CARDS
Due to the accessibility of fake identification cards via the internet, these cards are no longer helpful.
We have been in contact with Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in regards to traveling with total joint replacements. TSA states the following:
Airport security recommends anyone that has had a total joint replacement:<
1. Total joint cards are not necessary
2. Arrive two hours prior to scheduled departure
3. You will be searched and may have to show your scar
When can I see the dentist again?
Avoid any dental procedures for 1 month after your joint replacement.
Due to the risk of infection, anti-biotic treatment is recommended before ANY routine dental work. Your total joint is susceptible to infection during procedures which bacteria may be introduced in to your blood stream, and end up causing an infection in your total joint. Let your dentist know you have an artificial joint.
PRE-ANTIBIOTIC FOR DENTAL PROCEDURES
Please provide this information to your dentist when scheduling any dental or cleaning procedure:
KEFLEX 500mg
#4 TABLETS
Take 4 tablets one hour prior to dental procedure