Same-day discharge for total joint replacement surgery is becoming more common. Until recently, most patients who need shoulder, knee or hip joint replacements have a one to two day hospital stay, depending on the complexity of the replacement and their recovery.
Across the country, same-day discharges have high-quality outcomes, low complication rates and positive patient experiences for individuals who need joint replacement surgery.
“Patients like the option of same-day discharge after hip or knee replacement,” said Dr. Tyler Dahl, orthopedic surgeon for Marshfield Clinic Health System. “For ideal candidates, same-day discharge for arthroplasty is safe and effective. They have similar outcomes to those patients that used to stay in the hospital for a day or two. Many like the fact they can go to their own home after surgery.”
Robotic-assisted surgery offers more options for patients considering total hip and knee joint replacements. Surgeons use this advanced technology to have more information about the joint to create a more personalized surgical plan. Additional benefits also may include a more natural feeling for the patient after surgery due to more precise implant placement. And, it may result in smaller incisions, quicker recovery, shorter hospitalizations, less pain and a reduced risk of injury to adjacent tissues.
Same-day discharge not right for all patients
Your surgical care team will work with you to identify if you are an ideal candidate for same-day discharge. “Key factors we consider when evaluating for same-day discharge are medical history and physical examination,” Dr. Dahl said. “But some of the most important criteria is patient motivation and a good support system at home.”
Age, weight, general good health and complexity of replacement are some of the factors surgeons weigh to assess ideal candidates for same-day discharge. Individuals who have significant cardiac or respiratory disease or other untreated conditions will follow a traditional joint replacement recovery with hospital admission, but most of these will only stay one night in the hospital.
Planning and safety are key
Patients who are same-day discharge surgery candidates will receive preoperative education, and testing and consultations with their orthopedic surgeon and care team. Patients should be motivated and committed to optimize their health, including exercises to increase physical strength before surgery.
Surgery is scheduled for earlier in the day to allow as much time as possible to recover from anesthesia. This timing also allows more time to meet postoperative milestones in order to go home the same day. Many patients are ready for discharge within 6 hours of surgery to go home. You need to be able to walk, sit and stand and navigate stairs independently or with minimal assistance. In addition, you need to show stable vital signs and have your pain controlled with prescribed medication. You also need to have a caregiver at home.
New general anesthesia techniques allow less nausea and quicker recovery from anesthesia. In this approach, the effects of the anesthesia wear off faster. You can be mobile sooner to begin the physical therapy process earlier in the day. “Light headedness, pain control and nausea are often reasons that delay discharge,” Dr. Dahl said. “We prep the patients to make sure they are adequately hydrated and monitored. We also work with patients in recovery to ensure their needs are met and a safe discharge can occur.”
Follow up support needed in recovery
The day after discharge, a member of your orthopedic care team will check in on you to monitor recovery and provide support if needed. In recovery, you will focus on regaining mobility and building strength. This time investment in education, patient motivation and at home support is integral to healing. Rehabilitation continues after discharge, including physical therapy appointments soon after discharge. You will have at-home exercises and follow-up visits with your surgeon based on your needs and goals.
If you are experiencing pain and mobility issues, contact the orthopedic team at Marshfield Clinic Health System to discuss your total joint replacement options. Up to 50% of patients can now go directly home the day of surgery. Check with your orthopedic surgeon to see if that is right for you.
For more information about same-day joint replacements, talk to a Marshfield Clinic Health System provider.
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