Evanston, Ill.-based NorthShore University HealthSystem's Ravi Bashyal, MD, shared his insights on outpatient joint replacement surgery in a segment on Fox 32 News.
Here are the details to know:
1. By using minimally invasive techniques, patients experience less pain after a procedure. NorthShore also uses alternative pain medications like anti-inflammatories to reduce opioid use.
2. Dr. Bashyal said a typical outpatient hip replacement takes about 35 minutes to complete, while a knee replacement takes around 45 minutes.
3. The ideal patient for outpatient joint replacement surgery is a healthy, active individual with a strong support system at home.
4. Patients typically return to work within two weeks after the operation.