There has been increasing interest in outpatient total joint arthroplasty (TJA) in the orthopedic community, but how patients feel about outpatient TJA is unknown. The purpose of this study was to understand patient perspectives on hip and knee replacements performed in an outpatient setting.
We surveyed 110 consecutive patients scheduled for primary TJA in an academic suburban arthroplasty practice regarding their knowledge and perceptions of outpatient TJA. Questionnaires were administered during preoperative clinic visits before discussion of surgery location, length of stay, and before preoperative joint replacement education.
Fifty-seven percent of respondents were female, and 42.7% were aged 65 years or older. Very few patients expected same-day discharge (n = 3) or a one night stay in the hospital (n = 17). Fifty-four percent of patients were expected to stay in the hospital two or more nights. Only 54.5% of patients were aware that outpatient TJA is an option, with 55.3% of men and 31.7% of women reporting that they were comfortable with outpatient TJA (P = .030). In contrast, 61% and 72.8% believed that faster recovery and decreased likelihood of infection are likely advantages of outpatient TJA. Interestingly, 51.9% felt ambulatory surgery centers are as safe as hospitals, and 62.6% believed that home is the best place to recovery from TJA.
These observations suggest that there is need for patient education regarding outpatient TJA. 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.