Joint replacement surgery is a big decision, and many patients are surprised to learn that some hip and knee replacement procedures can be performed the same day at UNC Health Pardee.
Advances in surgical techniques, anesthesia, pain management, physical therapy and patient education have made it possible for these carefully selected patients to begin recovering at home later the same day.
What is same-day joint replacement surgery?
Same-day joint replacement means a patient has surgery, completes the first stage of recovery, and returns home later that day rather than spending a night in the hospital. Before any patient goes home, they must meet specific medical, mobility, and safety criteria.
Same-day recovery has become more common as care teams have improved the ability to manage pain and nausea, encourage early mobility, and identify patients who may be able to recover safely at home. For many patients, home can be a comfortable place to begin healing, particularly when they have appropriate support and a safe environment.
What advances have made this possible?
Same-day recovery has been made possible with advanced approaches for both hip and knee replacement that are designed with early movement and recovery in mind. This includes procedures like the anterior approach for hip replacement, which accesses the hip from the front, or the kinematic approach for knee replacement that considers each patient’s individual anatomy and natural alignment.
The specific approach and whether same-day discharge is appropriate will depend on each patient’s needs. Our goal is to develop a surgical and recovery plan that is safe, effective, and tailored to the individual patient.
Who is eligible for same-day total joint replacement?
Whether or not a patient is eligible for same-day joint surgery depends on the patient’s overall health, mobility, and support at home.
This includes an assessment of a patient’s heart and lung health, balance, strength, previous mobility, medical history, home setup, and support system. Patients should have reliable transportation, a safe home environment, and a clear understanding of their medications, exercises, and postoperative instructions.
Ultimately, the decision is made based on whether going home the same day is appropriate and safe for that individual.
What can a patient expect from same-day surgery?
Joint replacement is a major operation, and patients naturally want to know that they will be safe and supported. The goal at Pardee is to provide a safe, individualized joint replacement experience that helps the patient regain mobility, independence, and quality of life.
Most patients stand and begin walking within a few hours of surgery, once the effects of anesthesia have worn off and they are medically stable.
Before being discharged from the hospital, a nurse or physical therapist assists patients with first post-surgery steps, to demonstrate that a patient can stand safely, walk a short distance, use the bathroom, and perform the essential movements they will need at home. Patients will also receive education about their medication schedule, therapy plan, wound-care instructions, and how to contact the surgical team.
Going home the same day does not mean receiving less care. It means the preparation, anesthesia, pain management, therapy, and recovery plan have been organized so that an appropriately selected patient can continue recovering at home.
If you are considering joint replacement, talk with your orthopedic surgeon about whether a same-day discharge plan may be appropriate for you.
For more information about total joint replacement surgery at UNC Health Pardee, visit pardeehospital.org/orthopedics.
