Research published in the Journal of Arthroplasty surveyed patients on their thoughts regarding outpatient knee and hip arthroplasties.
Researchers surveyed 110 consecutive patients who were scheduled to undergo total joint arthroplasty about their thoughts and knowledge surrounding outpatient total joints. The survey questionnaires were given during preoperative clinic visits.
Here are the key study takeaways:
1. Over 50 percent of respondents said ASCs were as safe as hospitals.
2. Over 60 percent said they believed home was the best place to recover from total joint arthroplasty.
3. Fifty-five percent of men responding to the survey said they were comfortable with outpatient total joints, compared to 31.7 percent of women.
4. Sixty-one percent of men and 72.8 percent of women said faster recovery and a lower risk of infection were advantages of outpatient total joint arthroplasty surgery.
5. "These observations suggest that there is need for patient education regarding outpatient TJA ," the researchers concluded. "As outpatient procedures become more common, it is essential that patients understand the ambulatory surgery process, the benefits and risks of same day discharge and their role in a successful outpatient experience."