Before surgery
Medical optimization before hip or knee replacement.
Medical optimization is the part of recovery that happens before the operation. The goal is to identify modifiable risks, coordinate care, and make surgery day less reactive.
Recovery principles
A clear plan beats a crowded packet.
The PBJ Rapid Recovery System gives patients a practical way to prepare before surgery, understand the early recovery window, and know when to call for help.
01
Readiness: the patient is medically prepared
02
Coordination: physicians, labs, imaging, and records are aligned
03
Timing: concerns are handled before the last-minute window
Chapter guidance
What patients need to understand.
01
Why optimization matters
Blood sugar control, skin health, nutrition, sleep, medications, infection risk, and home support can all influence how smooth recovery feels.
- Earlier review gives time to act
- Risk conversations become practical
- Surgery timing connects to whole-patient readiness
02
What to review
Bring medication lists, allergies, prior infections, blood clot history, smoking or nicotine use, diabetes information, dental timing, and recent illness history.
- Bring current medications and supplements
- Bring names of primary care and specialists
- Report recent infections, wounds, or hospital visits
03
When surgery may need to wait
A pause can protect the patient. Active infection, concerning wounds, uncontrolled medical issues, or unsafe medication timing should be handled before proceeding.
- Call early if something changes
- Do not wait until arrival to mention a concern
- A delay can be a safety decision
Patient checklist
Make the next step concrete.
A patient should finish each chapter knowing what to do next, what is normal, and what should prompt a call to the office.
Bring a complete medication and supplement list
Share recent labs, imaging, dental work, infections, or hospital visits
Ask what must be completed before surgery can be confirmed
Follow written instructions for medications, skin prep, and fasting
Call the office if a new illness, wound, or infection appears before surgery
Common questions
Fast answers, careful claims.
Does this replace my office instructions?+
No. These chapters explain the recovery process in plain language. Follow the written instructions from Dr. Morton and the care team.
Should I call if I am unsure?+
Yes. If symptoms are worsening, confusing, or listed as warning signs, call the office or seek urgent care based on the situation.
Will every patient recover on the same timeline?+
No. Recovery depends on diagnosis, procedure, health, support, travel, and complications. Use the timeline as guidance, not a guarantee.
Continue the guide
Related chapters and next decisions.
Ready for a plan?
Start with a focused orthopedic consultation.
Bring your symptoms, imaging, records, medication list, and goals. The first win is understanding what is causing the pain and what path is realistic.
