If you are a candidate for hip or knee replacement, an outpatient setting might be a good option for you. An outpatient setting can be a great choice for healthy patients that want to avoid the major hospitals during the pandemic.
With advancements in a surgical procedure, new medicines to manage pain and bleeding, and advanced physical therapy protocols, outpatient joint replacement is now possible. This means you may be allowed to return home on the same day as the surgery or the very next day.
According to modern criterion, age is less of a factor compared to overall health and commitment to actively participate in the recovery process. You do need social support as you would have to rely on friends or family to help you with some routine activities of daily living for the first 2 or 3 weeks after surgery. Also, if you have been a physically active person prior to surgery and are willing to actively participate in the physical therapy program as recommended by your doctor, you are likely to have successful outpatient surgery.
You may be a Good Candidate if:
- You have overall good state of health
- Any comorbid conditions such as hypertension and diabetes are well controlled
- You are sufficiently motivated to follow postoperative instructions
- You can identify and report complications quickly
Benefits of Outpatient Joint Replacement:
- Recovery in the comfort of your home
- Less risk of hospital acquired infections
- Minimally invasive procedure
- Less likely to need blood transfusions
- Less costly as there will be no overnight or extended-stay hospital charges
- Faster recovery as patients feel more motivated to get back to usual activities at home
Dr. Christian Isaac specializes in outpatient joint replacement for hips and knees. Give us a call to see if Outpatient Joint Replacement is right for you (469) 777-4532.
