Preparation for Surgery

Hip, Knee and Trauma Specialists.

A Step-by-Step Guide to a Successful Procedure

1. Pre-Operative Health Optimisation

Before surgery, it is vital that your body is in the best possible condition for healing.

Medical Clearance: Depending on your health history, you may be required to see a GP or a Physician to ensure your heart and lungs are fit for anaesthesia.
Medications: Some medications (especially blood thinners, anti-inflammatories, and certain herbal supplements) must be stopped 7–10 days before surgery. Our team will provide you with a specific list during your consultation.
Smoking Cessation: We strongly advise quitting smoking at least 4 weeks before surgery. Smoking significantly delays bone healing and increases the risk of post-operative infection.
Diabetes Management: If you are diabetic, it is essential that your blood sugar levels are well-controlled in the weeks leading up to your procedure.

2. Hospital Registration

Our surgeries are primarily performed at Peninsula Private Hospital.

Online Admission: You must complete your hospital admission forms at least one week prior to your surgery date. This can usually be done via the hospital’s online portal.
Health Fund Check: Contact your health insurance provider to confirm your level of cover and any excess or co-payments required for your specific procedure code.

3. Pre-Admission Testing

We utilise advanced technology to plan your surgery with sub-millimetre precision.

Imaging: You may be sent for specific “Robotic Protocol” CT scans or X-rays. These images allow our surgeons to create a 3D digital map of your joint before the surgery begins.
Pathology: Basic blood tests and, in some cases, a nasal swab (to screen for staph bacteria) are standard requirements to ensure a sterile and safe environment.

4. Preparing Your Home

A safe environment at home is crucial for a smooth transition from the hospital.

Clear the Paths: Remove loose rugs, electrical cords, and clutter from walkways to prevent trips.
Furniture Height: Ensure you have a firm chair with armrests that is not too low. This is especially important for hip and knee patients.
Daily Essentials: Place items you use frequently (kettle, phone, medications, remote) within easy reach so you don’t have to bend or stretch excessively.
Assistance: Arrange for a friend or family member to stay with you for the first few days after discharge to help with meals and household tasks.

5. The Day Before Surgery

Fasting: You will receive specific instructions regarding when to stop eating and drinking. Usually, this is “Nil by Mouth” for 6 hours prior to your admission time. You will be advised of this ahead of time.
Hygiene: You may be asked to wash with a specific antiseptic soap the night before and the morning of your surgery to reduce the risk of skin infection.
Packing Your Bag: Bring comfortable, loose-fitting clothes, sturdy flat shoes (no flip-flops), your regular medications in their original packaging, and any relevant X-rays or scans.

6. Financial Consent

At Principle Orthopaedics, we believe in transparency. You will be provided with a Written Informed Financial Consent document. This outlines:

The surgical fee.
Expected rebates from Medicare and your health fund.
Any “Gap” or out-of-pocket expenses.

Please note: The anaesthetist and the hospital will provide their own separate financial estimates.

If you are unsure about any part of your preparation, please contact us. Our clinical staff is here to ensure you feel confident and ready for your procedure.

Checklist for Surgery Day

Photo ID, Medicare Card and Insurance Details

All current medications in their original packaging

All relevant X-rays and imaging

Pack a bag, and include loose, comfortable clothing

Leave all jewelry and valuables at home

You're all set for surgery day!

Meet Our Surgeons

At Principle Orthopaedics, our team of highly skilled and fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeons is committed to delivering exceptional care for hip, knee, shoulder, and upper limb conditions. Each surgeon brings extensive experience from leading institutions in Australia and overseas, combining advanced surgical techniques with a patient-centred approach. Whether managing complex joint replacements, revision surgery, sports injuries, trauma, or arthroscopic procedures, our surgeons prioritise clear communication, empathy, and the highest ethical standards to help patients achieve the best possible outcomes.

Dr Kosta Calligeros, the founder of Principle Orthopaedics, specialises in primary and revision hip and knee joint replacements, as well as knee arthroscopy, sports surgery, and general trauma including paediatric cases. Australian-born and trained, he completed rotations through prestigious units in Australia, the US, and the UK.

Mr Theo Partsalis focuses on hip and knee disorders, with expertise in joint replacement (including revisions), knee ligament reconstruction, and shoulder arthroscopy; he is a Monash University graduate with additional fellowship training in the UK.

Mr Daniel Mark Fisher (Dan) has a strong interest in robotic-assisted hip and knee replacements, drawing on his prior background as a physiotherapist for a holistic approach to patient recovery.

Mr Nick Furness brings international expertise in upper limb and fracture surgery, with sub-specialty fellowships in shoulder, elbow, and hand conditions from the UK, New Zealand, and Australia’s Alfred Hospital, alongside a passion for surgical education and research.