Orthopaedic Prehabilitation Service Supports Patients in Swansea Bay Amid Surgery Delays

The recently launched orthopaedic Prehabilitation service in Swansea Bay is playing a crucial role in providing essential support to patients awaiting hip and knee replacement surgeries, with the aim of maintaining their physical condition until their procedures are able to proceed. Given the significant impact of the pandemic on orthopaedic surgery waiting lists, the health board has prioritised the well-being of patients through this critical initiative.

Thus far, the service has reached out to over 2,000 patients in the region, offering assessments to determine the most suitable options for their needs. These options encompass weight management programmes, exercise classes, physiotherapy, steroid injections for pain management, and mobility aids such as walking sticks or knee braces. The ultimate objective is to address the risks associated with extended waiting periods, including deteriorating mobility and potential weight gain, which could compromise the patients’ readiness for surgery.

Chris Lambert, the clinical lead, emphasised the significance of the initial assessment, which serves as the gateway for patients to access tailored treatments based on their particular requirements and preferences. The approach is not mandatory, as self-management options are also available for those who opt for them. By optimising the pre-surgery health status of the patients, the service aims to enhance the outcome of the surgery and facilitate a quicker recovery post-operation.

The weight management programme is of particular importance for patients with a high Body Mass Index (BMI) due to the increased anaesthetic risks involved. Specialist weight management dietitian, Nadia Kudrjasova, and dietetic assistant practitioner, Rhiannon Rogers, are dedicated to providing personalised support for individuals facing this challenge. They offer both group sessions and one-to-one appointments to assist patients in achieving their weight management goals.

In addition to the weight management programme, the service also encompasses physiotherapy-based options, including hydrotherapy, exercise groups, and referrals to community-based exercise initiatives. Patients are not limited to a single option and can access combined weight management and exercise groups. Virtual options are also available for those who are unable to attend sessions in person.

The primary objective of the prehab service is to mitigate the potential health and functional decline that patients may experience while on the surgery waiting list. By maintaining and enhancing their mobility through various interventions such as weight loss, exercise, and pain management, the service aims to shift the patients’ focus from merely waiting for surgery to actively preparing for it.

The comprehensive support provided by the orthopaedic Prehabilitation service exemplifies the commitment of the health board to delivering patient-centred care, especially during these challenging times of surgery delays. Through this initiative, patients in Swansea Bay can anticipate receiving the necessary attention and resources to safeguard their well-being as they await their much-needed hip and knee replacement surgeries.