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University of Chicago Bone and Joint Replacement Center at Weiss

FAQ -- Total Joint Replacement Surgery

How long will I be in the hospital? You can expect to be in the acute hospital setting for 3-5 days from the time of surgery. If you continue your stay on the rehabilitation floor, expect another week depending on your progress.

Where do I go when I am discharged from the hospital? There are several options, such as inpatient rehabilitation, an extended care facility, or home with home health care. We will work with you and your family to help decide which choice is best for you. Please understand, not all patients qualify for inpatient rehabilitation. Some considering factors are current medical status, insurance allowance, and Dr. Finn's advice.

What should I bring to the hospital? Personal care items (toothbrush, paste, denture cup, hairbrush, etc.), walker, cane, walking shoes, and bathrobe. If going to rehab you will need to bring some comfortable clothes and walking shoes.

Do I need to have my surgery precertified with my insurance? It is YOUR responsibility to call your insurance carrier and notify them as soon as possible of the upcoming surgery. Our office will precertify the surgery approximately one to two weeks prior to your surgery. We do not check your benefits, only precertify. If a co-pay or deductible is required, it is due prior to the surgery. If you should have any questions please call our patient financial counselors at (773) 564-7000.

What if my primary insurance is an HMO? There are numerous insurance companies. Be familiar with your policy. HMO requires a referral to visit a new doctor and to have surgery. It is YOUR responsibility to obtain the referral for surgery and get it to our office. Additionally, HMO guides us with your discharge and rehabilitation plans. It is good advice for you to call and consult with your insurance to see what your discharge choices are prior to surgery. You need to know what to expect.

What physical therapy needs will I have? You will be having physical therapy at least three times a week for six weeks to three months after surgery, either with home care or at an outpatient facility. Some insurance companies require precertification. Again, check with your insurance carrier. In addition, equipment may not be covered by your insurance (walker, cane, etc.). You can purchase these here at Weiss or bring them from home.

Do I need some sort of card to go through the airport or metal detectors to indicate that I have a joint replacement? We do not give out cards. You may or may not set off the metal detectors, depending on how sensitive they are. You need to tell people that you have a joint replacement and they will waive the wand over your leg.