Arthroplasty (joint replacement) wound care
Wound care plan after joint replacement surgery: dressings, sutures, ice, anti-inflammatories and when to contact the rooms.
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Section 01
Dressings, ice and anti-inflammatories
- Debulk (remove) outer dressing after 24 hours.
- Ice the joint every 2 hours for 10 – 15 minutes, until the swelling goes. Remember that ice works up to 6 weeks after surgery.
- You can use anti-inflammatories in the immediate post-op period (first 2 – 3 weeks) to get the swelling down, unless specifically advised not to.
Section 02
Sutures and steri-strips
- Sutures are always buried dissolving sutures that do not need to be cut and removed. The sterile dressing and steri-strips can be removed after day 14.
- If I have used nylon (non-dissolving sutures) or staples (almost never), the wound can be inspected and the sutures removed at day 14. After removing the sutures, clean with chlorhexidine and please apply a fresh waterproof dressing for 72 hours.
Section 03
If a dressing comes off
- If the inner sterile dressings (waterproof) get loose or wet (or both!), please remove, clean with chlorhexidine and apply a fresh sterile dressing.
Section 04
When to contact the rooms
- If you have any concerns, check with a GP or physician first if feasible but don't hesitate to contact the rooms — 0490 907 573 or physio@eastcoastortho.com.au.
Last reviewed: 2025-10-15.
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Have questions about your recovery?
Every patient is different. If you would like a tailored plan or need to clarify any of these instructions, book an appointment with the East Coast Orthopaedic Physiotherapy team.
General guide only. These resources are intended as a general guide. Please follow the instructions of your treating surgeon and physiotherapist — your individual recovery plan may differ.