Medical Complications Associated with Total Hip Arthroplasty

Medical care of patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty is best accomplished using a proactive, multidisciplinary approach aimed at optimizing preoperative health and reducing the incidence of delirium and cardiovascular, thromboembolic, pulmonary, infectious and renal complications. All patients should receive perioperative antimicrobial and thromboembolism prophylaxis. Perioperative beta blockade should be initiated in most patients who have, or are at significant risk for, ischemic heart disease. Early mobilization, judicious use of pain medications, proactive bladder and bowel management, as well as close attention to pulmonary toilet, hydration and nutrition are all important additional ingredients to a successful recovery.