Patient Resources
Everything you need to feel prepared and confident about your hip or knee replacement — including step-by-step instruction videos straight from Dr. Dattilo. A little preparation goes a long way toward a smooth surgery and recovery.
Patient education videos
Watch these short videos to know exactly what to expect before, during, and after your procedure.
Total Hip Replacement — Pre-Op Instructions
Dr. Dattilo walks you through how to prepare for your total hip replacement, from the days before surgery to what to expect. Watch on YouTube ↗
Total Knee Replacement — Pre-Op Instructions
Dr. Dattilo explains how to get ready for your total knee replacement and what to expect before surgery. Watch on YouTube ↗
Preparing for Surgery at SmartCare
What to expect when your outpatient joint replacement is performed at the SmartCare surgical center in Palm Harbor. Watch on YouTube ↗
Day of Surgery — Post-Op Instructions
What to do on the day of surgery and through the first days of recovery after your hip or knee replacement. Watch on YouTube ↗
Preparing for your surgery
Before surgery. You’ll complete any needed medical clearance and pre-operative testing, and Dr. Dattilo’s team will review your medications — including which to stop and when. It also helps to prepare your home in advance: clear walkways, set up a comfortable recovery spot, and arrange a ride for the day of surgery. The pre-op videos above walk through this in detail.
Day of surgery. Most hip and knee replacements with Dr. Dattilo are designed to get you up and walking the same day, and many are performed as same-day, outpatient procedures. Pain is managed with a multimodal, narcotic-free approach so you stay comfortable while keeping narcotic medication to a minimum.
Recovery. You’ll begin moving right away, with physical therapy to rebuild strength and motion. Most patients are off a walker within a few days and back to many everyday activities within weeks. Your exact timeline depends on your procedure — your care team will give you a plan tailored to you.
Explore your options
Learn more about the procedures and approaches Dr. Dattilo offers:
Trusted resources
For more patient education from leading orthopedic authorities:
Questions about your surgery?
Dr. Dattilo and his team are here to help you feel ready every step of the way.