Developmental dysplasia of the hip sometimes referred to as congenital hip dislocation, is a condition wherein the normal formation of the hip joint does not occur in infants and young children. Surgery is one of the options to be considered to reduce the dislocation and ensure a normal functioning hip. Preparation for such surgery is paramount not only for the patient but also for the members of the family. The following information shall help guide you in preparing for hip dislocation surgery.
Understand the Procedure
Before surgery, it’s important to understand what will happen. Most surgeries for congenital hip dislocation involve relocating the femoral head into the hip socket (the acetabulum) and often use hardware such as pins or plates to facilitate proper healing. You should discuss the surgery details with an orthopedic surgeon to address any questions and set appropriate expectations.
Consult with Your Healthcare Team
Engage your health care team well in advance of the surgery date. This generally includes orthopaedic surgeons, pediatricians, anaesthesiologists, and physical therapists who can provide information on everything from the surgical process and possible risks to recovery plans. Feel free to ask any questions you might have concerning the surgery anesthesia and methods of follow-up care after surgery.
Preoperative Assessments
Your child will likely undergo several preoperative assessments, including:
Physical Examination: The doctor conducts a thorough evaluation to assess whether the child is fit for surgery.
Imaging studies to evaluate the hip joint may include X-rays or MRI and known proper surgical approach.
Blood Investigations: Routine blood investigations to check for any underlying conditions that may influence surgery.
Follow all scheduled appointments and preparation instructions provided by the health care team.
Prepare for the Hospital Stay
Inquire your physician how long you will stay in the hospital. This may vary depending on the extent of the surgery and your child’s overall health. Here are some tips to prepare for the hospital stay:
Packing Essentials All comfort clothes, toiletries, and favorite child toys or blankets to console your child.
Transportation Plan: Line up someone to drive you to and from the hospital. Your child may be groggy from the anesthesia after the test and unable to travel safely.
Fasting Instructions
Your health care provider will have some specific instructions about not eating or drinking before the surgery. In general, it is not uncommon for children to not eat or drink anything for a certain number of hours before the test to make sure they have a safe anesthesia experience. Adhere to these guidelines as closely as possible to avoid delays in surgery.
Emotional Preparation
Emotional preparation for surgery is as important as the physical preparation of your child. Explain this procedure in a manner your child can understand. Reassure them this may enable them to be more comfortable walking and playing. If old enough encourage him or her to ask questions.
Post-Surgery Care Planning
Before the surgery, discuss post-operative care plans with your healthcare team. This includes:
Pain Management: This section will inform you about how pain is managed after surgery including the medications that will be prescribed.
Physical Therapy: Your child may participate in a rehabilitation program aimed at restoring strength and mobility.
Follow-up Appointments: Follow-up visits to monitor the progress of the recovery and the functionality of the hip.
Conclusion
Preparing for congenital hip dislocation surgery can be complex. To help ease the experience for your child, communicate openly with the healthcare team, follow all preoperative instructions, and ensure you’re emotionally ready. Remember, recovery is a process, and the better prepared you are, the better the outcome will be.
