All Educational Resources

Shoulder replacement follow-ups and emergencies

Patient Education
Published Jan. 25, 2019
• Reviewed by a UI Health Care Provider
on Oct. 1, 2018

Your appointments after surgery

A follow-up visit will be scheduled the same time your surgery is scheduled. People are often seen 10 to 14 days after their surgery. Please call 1-319-356-2466 if you have not been scheduled.

Your second follow-up visit will be scheduled for three to four weeks after your first follow-up visit.

Emergencies

Signs of an emergency

  • More redness, swelling, and drainage than normal from the incision site
  • A fever greater than 101.5° F
  • Not being able eat or drink
  • Trouble breathing if you had a regional block or a pain catheter (this is rare)

Please call one of these

  • Your surgeon’s office at 1-319-356-2466 from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Ask to talk with the nurse or medical assistant.
  • The hospital operator at 1-319-356-1616 on nights, weekends, and holidays. Ask to talk with the orthopedic doctor on call. The operator will call your doctor.
  • 24 hours a day toll-free at 1-800-777-8442

Or go to the nearest emergency room if you are having a hard time breathing or are short of breath. If you need to go to the hospital, it is best if you go to UI Health Care emergency room.