THR Anesthesia

[Lulu1016]

Had first THR 5 years ago with spinal and IV sedation, was totally out, heard nothing. Need to get the other hip done, but now in a different state, and the PA said I would need to talk the anesthesiologist out of intubation with general anesthesia, which from what he said not easy. I do not want to be intubated unless medically emergently necessary. Do I have a say in the matter besides declining the surgery and finding another doc/ hospital?

 

[djklaugh]

@Lulu1016 Welcome to BoneSmart! If general anesthesia is used you would definitely be intubated because that anesthesia relaxes ALL muscles including ones needed to breath. So intubation is required. The decision of spinal + sedation vs general is, I think, a decision to discuss with the surgeon and anesthesiologist.

Do you have some specific concerns/worries about intubation? If so do mention those to the surgeon and anesthesiologist.

Do you have a date yet for the second hip replacement? If you leave us the dates of your past and future surgery we will create a signature for you.

Though you've already had one hip replaced I will leave you our pre-op suggestions and articles.


Hip: pre-surgery considerations

If you are at the stage where you have joint pain but don't know for sure if you are ready to have surgery, these links may help:


Score Chart: How bad is my arthritic hip?
Choosing a surgeon and a prosthesis
BMI Calculator - What to do if your surgeon says you're too heavy for joint replacement surgery
Longevity of implants and revisions: How long will my new joint last?

If you are at the stage where you are planning to have surgery but are looking for information so you can be better prepared for what is to come, take a look at these links:


Recovery Aids: A comprehensive list for hospital and home
Recliner Chairs: Things you need to know if buying one for your recovery
Pre-Op Interviews: What's involved?

And if you want to picture what your life might be like with a replaced hip, take a look at the posts and threads in stories of amazing hip recoveries

 

[Eman85]

When I had mine GA meant intubation, another reason I went with spinal.

 

[Jaycey]

I do not want to be intubated unless medically emergently necessary.

Talk to the surgeon and anaesthetist. They are the people who will make the decision on what is used during your procedure. In most cases spinal and sedation is used and no intubation is needed.

 

[zauberflöte]

@Lulu1016 definitely talk with the anaesthesiologist. My OS much preferred GA so his patients would be "like rag dolls" , and I had no problem allowing that. I definitely understand your hesitation!