Ask the Program Coordinator

Have a question about hip, knee or shoulder replacement surgery? Send us your questions and we will post the answers on a weekly basis.

Ask the Center for Joint Replacement Program Coordinator Archives
Q.  How long do patients stay in the hospital if they have a knee replacement?
A.   Every patient is different,  however the average inpatient hospital stay is 3 nights.  Hospital stays after this surgery used to be longer, but the new minimally invasive techniques used for joint replacement surgery have reduced the time needed in the hospital for most patients.

Q.   My doctor has told me I need a hip replacement.  Does insurance cover all the costs of this surgery?
A.   Insurance plans vary, but for many people insurance does cover hip replacement surgery when needed.  Preapproval for the procedure is often required, for both surgery and after care (such as home visits or physical therapy).  The Joint Replacement Program at Greenwich Hospital has a case manager on staff who works with all our patients,  to understand their insurance benefits and provide assistance with getting necessary authorizations. For information contact the Joint Replacement Program case manager Paula Guglielmi at 203-863-3432 or e-mail  Paula.Guglielmi@greenwichhospital.org

Q.   I am thinking of having knee replacement surgery.  How long is the rehab for this?
A.   Every patient is different but the average rehabilitation period for a knee replacement is between 4-6 months.  Rehabilitation includes visits to a physical therapist as well as home exercises.  Our joint replacement class for patients planning surgery includes a presentation by a physical therapist, with an opportunity for patients to ask questions. See our calendar for the next scheduled class or call our Program Coordinator, Tori Kroll at 203-863-3629.  

Q.   What types of anesthesia are used for joint replacement surgery?
A.   Patients receive  IV sedation and  are asleep during surgery.  In addition, most patients also receive pain medication during surgery to reduce complications and accelerate healing.  Knee replacement patients receive a femoral nerve block that delivers pain medication to the femoral nerve.

Our Joint Replacement seminars include a discussion with one of our anesthesiologists.  See our Calendar to find out when our next session is.