Post-Operative Care: Direct Anterior Approach (DAA) Hip Replacement

Post-operative care following a Direct Anterior Approach (DAA) Hip Replacement is a critical phase that ensures optimal recovery and long-term success of the procedure. At Arcus Hospital, under the expert guidance of Dr. Rohit Luthra, patients receive a tailored care plan designed to minimize complications, promote healing, and restore mobility efficiently. This section provides a detailed guide on the essential aspects of post-operative care, including exercises, swelling management, stitch removal, and additional considerations to support a smooth recovery process.

Immediate Recovery (Day 0 – Day 2)

• Mobilization: Most patients are encouraged to begin walking within 12–24 hours of surgery with assistance from a walker or physiotherapist.
• Pain Management: Medication is prescribed to control pain and reduce inflammation. Due to the muscle-sparing nature of DAA, pain levels are significantly lower.
• Drain & Bandage Removal: The surgical drain is typically removed within the first 24 hours, and the dressing is changed or removed within 48–72 hours.

Ice Therapy and Swelling Management

• Apply an ice pack over the surgical site 4–5 times daily for 15–20 minutes to reduce swelling.
• Keep the leg elevated using pillows under the heel (not under the knee) to assist with fluid drainage and reduce inflammation.

Exercises and Physiotherapy

Rehabilitation begins immediately after surgery and includes:

1. Quadriceps Tightening – Stretch your leg forward while sitting, press the knee down, tighten the thigh muscle. Hold for 5 seconds, relax. Repeat 10 times, 4 times a day.
2. Heel Lifts with Towel Support – Place a folded towel under the knee. Push the knee down, lift the heel upward. Hold for 5 seconds, relax.
3. Knee Bending (Chair or Bed) – Sit or lie on a bed. Slide your foot backward to bend the knee as much as possible. Hold for 5 seconds, then straighten the leg. Repeat 10 times.
4. Ankle Pumps – Move the foot up and down gently every hour to improve blood flow and prevent clots.

Wound and Stitch Care

• Keep the incision site clean and dry.
• Stitches or staples are removed after 10–14 days depending on wound healing.
• Watch for signs of infection: excessive redness, discharge, fever, or unusual pain.

Walking and Daily Activities

• Gradually progress from a walker to a stick within 2–3 weeks.
• Avoid crossing legs or bending the hip beyond 90° for the first few weeks.
• Climb stairs with support—up with the non-operated leg, down with the operated one.
• Most patients can resume daily non-strenuous activities (including using Indian toilets, sitting cross-legged, or returning to desk jobs) within 3–4 weeks.

Follow-Up Schedule

• 1st follow-up: 2 weeks post-surgery (for wound check and stitch removal)
• 2nd follow-up: 6 weeks post-surgery (for mobility assessment)
• 3rd follow-up: 3 months post-surgery (for final functional recovery check)

Important Reminders

• Take prescribed medications on time.
• Continue all recommended exercises for at least 6 weeks.
• Inform your doctor of any unusual symptoms immediately.

With proper post-operative care and adherence to this recovery plan, most patients regain full function, mobility, and independence far earlier than with traditional hip replacement methods.

Post-operative care for DAA Hip Replacement at Arcus Hospital is a meticulously designed process, blending expert medical oversight with patient empowerment. From early mobilization exercises like bending the knee on the bed to diligent swelling management and timely stitch removal, every step is crafted to enhance recovery. Under Dr. Rohit Luthra’s leadership, this care plan leverages the advantages of DAA to deliver exceptional outcomes, making Arcus Hospital a trusted destination for hip replacement recovery in India.