BEFORE YOUR SURGERY
How to prepare for your hip or knee procedure with Dr Darren Paterson
Preparing well for your surgery can make a big difference to your recovery, comfort, and confidence. Dr Darren Paterson and his team will guide you through each step, from your pre-operative assessment to the day you are admitted.
This page outlines what to expect, how to get ready, and what you need to arrange before your hip or knee operation.
Pre-operative consultation
Before your surgery date, you will have a detailed consultation with Dr Paterson to:
- Review your diagnosis and confirm the recommended procedure
- Discuss the surgical approach and expected recovery process
- Go over the potential risks and benefits
- Answer any questions you have about your care
- Complete your informed consent for surgery
Pre-admission hospital assessment
Most patients will attend a pre-admission clinic at the hospital where their surgery will take place. This may include:
- A medical history review and physical examination
- Blood tests, ECG, or other investigations as required
- Anaesthetic review with the anaesthetist
- Instructions on fasting before surgery
- Guidance on which medications to continue or stop
Optimising your health before surgery
Where possible, improving your general health before surgery can assist with recovery. Dr Paterson may recommend:
- Physiotherapy or exercise – to strengthen muscles and improve joint mobility before surgery
- Healthy eating – to support healing and immune function
- Quitting smoking – to reduce the risk of complications and improve wound healing
- Managing medical conditions – ensuring conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or asthma are well controlled
Fasting before surgery
You will receive instructions on when to stop eating and drinking before your procedure. This is essential for your safety during anaesthesia. In most cases:
- No solid food for 6 hours before surgery
- Clear fluids (such as water) may be allowed up to 2 hours before surgery, unless otherwise advised
What to bring to hospital
It’s important to have the right items ready for your hospital stay:
- Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing to wear after surgery
- Supportive footwear with a non-slip sole
- Toiletries and personal items including your phone charger
- Your Medicare card, health fund card, and any relevant paperwork
- All current medications in their original packaging
- Any mobility aids you already use (e.g., crutches, walker)
Planning for your return home
Before surgery, it’s helpful to organise:
- A safe space at home free of trip hazards
- Help from family or friends for shopping, cooking, or transport
- Any equipment you may need, such as crutches, a shower chair, or raised toilet seat
Day of surgery
When you arrive at hospital:
- You will be admitted and prepared for surgery by the nursing team
- You will meet your anaesthetist and have a final review with Dr Paterson
- The surgical site will be marked, and pre-operative safety checks completed
Support and questions
If you have any questions or concerns in the lead-up to your surgery, contact Dr Paterson’s rooms on (02) 8599 9707 or send us a message using the link below. Our team are here to ensure you feel informed, supported, and confident about your procedure.