Fish Oil in Total Hip Replacement Randomized Clinical Trial

The purpose of this study is to determine if continuing fish oil supplementation leads to higher blood loss in patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA). Another purpose is to determine if patients on fish oil have less pain after THA. Fish oil (Omega-3 fatty acid) is commonly used by patients as a natural anti-inflammatory to decrease joint pain from arthritis. Supplements, including fish oil, are typically stopped 1-2 weeks prior to surgery as there is an increased risk of perioperative bleeding. However, there are current methods in joint replacement surgery that decrease the risk of perioperative bleeding. With the risk of excessive bleeding being minimized, fish oil may not need to be stopped prior to surgery and could be continued immediately after surgery. The anti-inflammatory effect of fish oil may also help decrease pain after surgery.