Preventing blood clots during surgery for BTKR

[KarriB]

My Pt/OT had this cool tool that looks like a dog leash with a loop at one end and a handle on the other, a leg lifter. I used it to lift my leg into bed the first week or so (took me a week to get straight leg lifts). I don't know why you couldn't use that to pull your feet and simulate ankle pumps. Not sure it would provide the same inner motion that ankle pumps provide to muscles, but it would get your blood following.

 

[TC15]

I worry about the blood clots being a problem when I come home. The pumps will be gone and my insurance has only approved a 2 day stay at the hospital.

 

[KarriB]

A friend bought me my own leg lifter in the hospital gift shop. You may be able to get one at a pharmacy or medical store. It was inexpensive, $20-$30.

 

[Kansas Teacher]

You will have a physical therapist that sees you in the hospital. I would ask both the pt and your surgeon what alternatives you can use at home to prevent blood clots. They will have some ideas. And, because your movement is more restricted, they may also put you on a stronger blood thinner for a few weeks. Definitely talk to them about your concerns.

 

[kneeper]

Yes, definitely ask the PT. I bet they will have good ideas. The other thing to remember is that you will be up and walking at home--maybe not for much at a time, but you will be moving.

 

[referee54]

I worry about the blood clots being a problem when I come home. The pumps will be gone and my insurance has only approved a 2 day stay at the hospital.

It is important to note that you will not be bed-ridden---you can get up and move about, and you will have some gentle exercises to do.

The other thing to remember is that you will be up and walking at home--maybe not for much at a time, but you will be moving.

Yes---you will be able to get up and move around---slowly and gently---not very often, but you will be up and moving either the day of surgery or the next day. I would not worry much about it at all.

 

[Lovestoread]

As Tim said, you will be able to get up and move around a bit…..you will not be bedridden. Don't overdo, though! Will you be taking aspirin or something as a blood thinner? I was on aspirin for three weeks and wore the dreaded TED hose during that time. Blood clots are always a concern, but in my two years of reading here on Bonesmart, they are few and far between.

 

[Kansas Teacher]

Two weeks with lovely TED hose and 4 weeks with aspirin are what my surgeon is using to prevent clots. Today was my first day without TED. Whew! And a couple more weeks of aspirin. Just follow your doctor's instructions -- he or she has been down this road and knows how to prevent blood clots!

Roxie

 

[tigz]

Two weeks? I'm jealous! My instructions say four weeks (which is 10 more days argh).

 

[Kansas Teacher]

Argh is right @tigz . They sure are uncomfortable! Of course, I could go in for my post-op check next Tuesday and he might tell me he's changed his mind and I need to put them back on!

Roxie

 

[Angel1978]

When I had my knee replace. They did a pill in the am/pm and during day shots in stomach... Don't know if that's is how your facility will do.
Also they will send you home with some to.... Xxxx Don't be scared u will do fine. Make sure u and the surgen have proper communication. Also U have this bunch of friends to help you get through it. Best regards.


FaithMitchmommy
PKR December.1,2014
TKREV MARCH.2,2015

 

[ptmhcm]

BTKR Surgery tonight at 6 pm. Guess I am ready. Here goes.

 

[Pumpkin]

ptmhcm,
Wishing all the best for your BTKR this evening. Looking forward to seeing your first report,

 

[Angel1978]

Good luck!!! Wishing you the best in recovery.


FaithMitchmommy
PKR December.1,2014
TKREV MARCH.2,2015

 

[Lovestoread]

Good luck to you!


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[Clipless]

I hope you are feeling great! Just a thought- your surgeon can prescribe SCD's (Sequential Compression Device)- aka "calf squeezers" for home use, and insurance might cover the cost because of your pre-existing condition. SCD rentals are available in larger urban areas like Chicago. There are even portable versions for travel. Google "SCD Rental".