How you prepare

Before surgery you'll meet with your orthopedic surgeon for an exam. The surgeon will:

• Ask about your medical history and current medications
• Examine your hip, paying attention to the range of motion in your joint and the strength of the surrounding muscles
• Order blood tests, and an X-ray. An MRI is rarely needed

During this preoperative evaluation is a good time for you to ask questions about the procedure. Be sure to find out which medications you should avoid or continue to take in the week before surgery.

Because tobacco use can interfere with healing, stop using tobacco products for at least a month before surgery and for at least two months after surgery. If you need help to quit, talk to your doctor.

Don't have dental work, including teeth cleaning, two weeks before surgery.