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There is not a lot of info on surgery for RA patients because the answer is individual depending upon the surgery and the progression of you RA.  Having been through many surgeries in the last few years, the only thing MD's actually worry about is getting you off your meds for about one to two weeks before the surgery, especially if you are on any bio chemical meds such as Enbrel or Humira. This is only because you they suppress your immune system.   Our bodies heal a bit slower than most people's but we get through medical procedures fairly well.  Your surgeon will probably prescribe higher doses of antibodics and maybe prednisone right after the procedure and will have you come in for follow-up a little more than the average Joe.  Other than that, you will be allowed to continue you meds within a few days of your surgery.  You will be advised to keep the wound clean.  And if movement is permitted then you will be asked to exercise to keep from getting stiff or causing any kind of flare up. Physicall therapy may be prescribed to keep scare tissue from being an issue.   Good luck to ya.  Hope this helped.