I had my hip replaced in 2007 but the "class" the dr. held also included knee replacement patients. We had to get a clean bill of health from our primary physicians and any specialists we saw. We also had to go to the dentist and make sure everything was good there. He recommended I shower with an antibacterial soap for two weeks before the procedure. That said, I was out of the hospital and "walking" with a walker about 48 hours after the surgery. I had some discomfort and am allergic to most pain meds, but tylenol worked. It was a life changing surgery. Be sure and do everything they tell you before and after the surgery. Even if it is uncomfortable and even if you don't feel like it. Good luck and keep us posted.