Day of surgery discharge after unicompartmental knee arthroplasty: an effective perioperative pathway

Improving sustainability and mitigating the environmental impacts of anaesthesia and surgery: a narrative review

Climate change, environmental degradation, and biodiversity loss are adversely affecting human health and exacerbating existing inequities, intensifying pressures on already strained health systems. Paradoxically, healthcare is a high-polluting industry, responsible for 4.6% of global greenhouse gas emissions and a similar proportion of air pollutants. Perioperative services are among the most resource-intensive healthcare services and are responsible for some unique pollutants. Opportunities exist to mitigate pollution throughout the entire continuum of perioperative care, including those that occur upstream of the operating room in the process of patient selection and optimisation, delivery of anaesthesia and surgery, and the postoperative recovery period. Within a patient-centred, holistic approach, clinicians can advocate for healthy public policies that modify the determinants of surgical illness, can engage in shared decision-making to ensure appropriate clinical decisions, and can be stewards of healthcare resources. Innovation and collaboration are required to redesign clinical care pathways and processes, optimise logistical systems, and address facility emissions. The results will extend beyond the reduction of public health damages from healthcare pollution to the provision of higher value, higher quality, patient-centred care.

Using orthopaedic health care resources efficiently: A cost analysis of day surgery for unicompartmental knee replacement

BACKGROUND

Day surgery for unicompartmental knee replacement (UKR) could potentially reduce hospital costs. We aimed to measure the impact of introducing a day surgery UKR pathway on mean length of stay (LOS) and costs for the UK NHS, compared to an accelerated inpatient pathway. Secondly, the study aimed to compare the magnitude of costs using three costing approaches: top-down costing; simple micro-costing; and real-world costing.

METHODS

We conducted an observational, before-and-after study of 2,111 UKR patients at one NHS hospital: 1,094 patients followed the day surgery pathway between September 2017 and February 2020; and 1,017 patients followed the accelerated inpatient pathway between September 2013 and February 2016. Top-down costs were estimated using Average NHS Costs. Simple micro-costing used the cost per bed-day. Real-world costs for this centre were estimated by costing actual changes in staffing levels.

RESULTS

532 (48.5%) patients in the day surgery pathway were discharged on the day of surgery compared with 36 (3.5%) patients in the accelerated inpatient pathway. The day surgery pathway reduced the mean LOS by 2.2 (95% CI: 1.81, 2.53) nights and was associated with an 18% decrease in Average NHS Costs (p < 0.001). Mean savings were £1,429 per patient with the Average NHS Costs approach, £905 per patient with the micro-costing approach, and £577 per patient with the "real-world" costing approach. Overall, moving NHS UKR surgeries to a day surgery pathway could save the NHS £8,659,740 per year.

CONCLUSION

Day surgery for UKR could produce substantial cost savings for hospitals and the NHS.

One-day surgery is safe and effective in unicompartmental knee arthroplasty: A prospective comparative study at 1 year of follow-up

PURPOSE

To compare the outcomes and complications of two perioperative protocols for the management of patients who underwent medial unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA): 24 h (1-day surgery [OS]) versus 72 h (enhanced recovery after surgery [ERAS]) of the length of hospital stay (LOS). In our hypothesis, the reduction of the LOS from 3 to 1 day did not influence the outcomes and complications.

METHODS

A total of 42 patients (21 in each group) with isolated anteromedial knee osteoarthritis and meeting specific criteria were prospectively included in the study. Clinical outcomes included Knee Society Score (KSS) and Forgotten joint score while pain evaluation was performed using a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Functional outcomes were assessed measuring the knee range of motion (ROM) while radiographic outcomes were evaluated measuring the amelioration of the varus deformity through the hip-knee-ankle angle (HKA).

RESULTS

Clinical and functional outcomes did not significantly differ between the two groups. Complications occurred in 9.5% of OS and 4.7% of ERAS group patients. Significant improvements in knee ROM, VAS pain, KSS and HKA angle were observed postsurgery, with no significant differences between groups except in KSS expectations and function trends.

CONCLUSION

The OS protocol is safe and effective and LOS, in a well-defined fast-track protocol, did not significantly impact clinical and functional outcomes. OS may lead to reduced hospitalisation costs and potential reductions in complications associated with prolonged stays, benefiting both patients and healthcare facilities. However, further research with larger sample sizes and longer follow-up periods is needed to confirm these findings. Early mobilisation and rehabilitation protocols are key components of successful patient recovery following UKA procedures.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level II.

Outpatient Total Knee Arthroplasty From a Stand-Alone Surgery Center: Safe as the Hospital?

BACKGROUND

Literature suggests that outpatient arthroplasty may result in low rates of complications and readmissions. There is, however, a dearth of information on the relative safety of total knee arthroplasty (TKA) performed at stand-alone ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) versus hospital outpatient (HOP) settings. We aimed to compare safety profiles and 90-day adverse events of these 2 cohorts.

METHODS

Prospectively collected data were reviewed on all patients who underwent outpatient TKA from 2015 to 2022. The ASC and HOP groups were compared, and differences in demographics, complications, reoperations, revisions, readmissions, and emergency department (ED) visits within 90 days of surgery were analyzed. There were 4 surgeons who performed 4,307 TKAs during the study period, including 740 outpatient cases (ASC = 157; HOP = 583). The ASC patients were younger than HOP patients (ASC = 61 versus HOP = 65; P < .001). Body mass index and sex did not differ significantly between groups.

RESULTS

Within 90 days, 44 (6%) complications occurred. No differences were observed between groups in rates of 90-day complications (ASC = 9 of 157, 5.7% versus HOP = 35 of 583, 6.0%; P = .899), reoperations (ASC = 2 of 157, 1.3% versus HOP = 3 of 583, 0.5%; P = .303), revisions (ASC = 0 of 157 versus HOP = 3 of 583, 0.5%; P = 1), readmissions (ASC = 3 of 157, 1.9% versus HOP = 8 of 583, 1.4%; P = .625), and ED visits (ASC = 1 of 157, 0.6% versus HOP = 3 of 583, 0.5%; P = .853).

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that in appropriately selected patients, outpatient TKA can be safely performed in both ASC and HOP settings with similar low rates of 90-day complications, reoperations, revisions, readmissions, and ED visits.

Efficacy of tranexamic acid supplemented with local infiltration analgesia in reducing blood loss in patients undergoing unicompartmental knee arthroplasty

This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of tranexamic acid supplemented with local infiltration analgesia in reducing blood loss in patients undergoing unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA). This retrospective study was conducted on 176 individuals with a mean age of 64.27 (standard deviation [SD], 7.16) years undergoing unicompartmental cemented knee arthroplasty. The patients were divided into three groups according to patient blood management: I, patients without additional bleeding protocol (control group); II, patients intravenously administered tranexamic acid (TXA) (TXA group); and III, patients with exact TXA protocol combined with intraoperative local infiltration analgesia (LIA) (TXA + LIA group). Blood loss was measured as a substitute for blood loss by the maximal haemoglobin (Hb) drop compared with the preoperative Hb level. The mean Hb drops for the control, TXA, and TXA + LIA groups were 2.24 (16.0%), 2.14 (15.4%), and 1.81 (12.6%) g/dl, respectively. The mean hospitalisation days for patients in the control, TXA, and TXA + LIA groups were 5.91 (SD 1.24), 5.16 (SD 0.95), and 4.51 (SD 0.71) days, respectively. The combination of TXA with LIA reduces perioperative blood loss for patients after UKA.

Comparison of day-case versus inpatient uni-compartmental knee replacement

BACKGROUND

Uni-compartmental knee replacement (UKR) is an alternative to total knee replacement for patients who have isolated compartment osteoarthritis. Studies have demonstrated that UKR can be safely performed as a day-case procedure without a negative impact on complication rates. The aim of this study was to compare the clinical outcomes between day-case and inpatient UKRs.

METHODS

A single surgeon prospective case-controlled study was performed, comparing data between day-case UKRs and inpatient UKRs. This included longitudinal analysis of patient reported outcome measures (PROMs); including the Oxford Knee Score, Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, Short Form 12-item Health Survey, EQ-5D-5L and the Self-administered Comorbidity Questionnaire. Post-operative pain scores (visual analogue scale), unplanned post-operative hospital reattendance rates and complications were also analysed.

RESULTS

Overall, 100% of day-case patients were successfully discharged on the same day. Both inpatient (n = 23) and day-case (n = 23) UKRs demonstrated a significant within group longitudinal improvement of PROM scores (p < 0.05) following surgery. However, the post-operative PROM scores were significantly higher in the day-case group as compared to the inpatient group (p < 0.05). Both groups had comparable post-operative pain scores, but the day-case group demonstrated fewer unplanned reattendances and post-operative complications.

CONCLUSION

The clinical outcomes of day-case UKR are superior to inpatient UKR. Careful patient selection and a robust multidisciplinary patient pathway are the key components to success of day-case joint replacement surgery.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prospective Case-Control Study, level III.

Early post-operative physiotherapy rehabilitation after primary unilateral unicompartmental knee replacement: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Unicompartmental Knee Replacement (UKR) is an established treatment for end stage arthritis affecting one compartment of the knee. UKR lends itself to rapid recovery and early discharge. The content, type, timing and dose of early post-operative physiotherapy treatment has yet to be reviewed.

OBJECTIVE

To review the content of early physiotherapy in the first eight weeks following unilateral UKR.

DATA SOURCES

A literature search of Medline, CINAHL, AMED and PubMed and the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDRo) plus citation searching.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies reporting a physiotherapy intervention for UKR involving a form of post-operative exercise/education/advice delivered within the first eight weeks of surgery and commencing as an in-patient. Two reviewers independently performed screening, data extraction and risk of bias assessment.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Narrative syntheses were undertaken due to the heterogeneity of the primary outcomes.

RESULTS

Eleven studies were included (n = 1293 participants), three RCTs and eight observational studies. The dose and content of post-operative physiotherapy was highly variable with a move in recent years to rapid recovery and same day discharge with more self-directed rehabilitation. No studies had a low risk of bias.

LIMITATIONS

Small sample sizes and high heterogeneity limit our findings CONCLUSIONS: This review highlights the range of post-operative physiotherapy provision following UKR with a recent move to minimal physiotherapy input. Further research is required to identify those patients who may need additional physiotherapy above that now routinely provided, along with the most effective timing, type, and dosage of the intervention.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION NUMBER

PROSPERO CRD42021243238. CONTRIBUTION OF THE PAPER.

The Economic Impact of a Pilot Digital Day-Case Pathway for Knee Arthroplasty in a U.K. Setting

Knee replacements are an increasingly common procedure in the U.K. National Health Service (NHS). Importantly, the pathway for such procedures represents a prime opportunity to leverage digital technology, modernize and streamline the approach to care, and free up resources.

Methods

In this 21-patient pilot study, we assessed the impact of implementing a digital day-case pathway for knee replacement surgery at the Calderdale and Huddersfield NHS Foundation trust.

Results

Fourteen (67%) of the 21 eligible patients were treated as day cases, with an average length of stay of 8.8 hours. The pilot data were utilized to model the potential impact of implementing a digital day-case program more widely across the trust. This model showed increased efficiency over the entire episode of care, with reductions in physiotherapy appointments, preoperative visits, hospital days, and face-to-face consultations. Not only would these improvements free up capacity, but they would also result in an estimated saving of £240,540 to the trust while reducing the CO₂ footprint of knee replacements by 119,381 kg CO₂ emitted. A sensitivity analysis revealed that, even with substantial variation of several key variables within the pathway, a trust-wide digital day-case program would still be a cost-saving measure.

Conclusions

Overall, the present study supports the growing notion that digital technology can facilitate the transformation of care pathways, resulting in greater efficiency and financial savings for health-care providers while reducing the time patients spend in the hospital.

Level of Evidence

Therapeutic Level II. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Unicompartmental Knee Arthroplasty Is Cost-Effective in an Outpatient Setting

INTRODUCTION

Increasingly, unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) is being performed on an outpatient basis, with the growing utilization of ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs). The purpose of this study was to compare the costs of UKAs performed in an ASC to UKAs done in a hospital, either on an outpatient or inpatient basis.

METHODS

This study involved three matched groups, each with 50 consecutive patients, undergoing UKA either on an outpatient basis in an ASC or a community hospital, or who were admitted overnight to the same community hospital. Identical perioperative analgesic regimens and care protocols were used in each group. The primary outcomes evaluated included direct facility costs. Secondary outcomes were postoperative complications and readmissions.

RESULTS

Average age, gender ratio, and comorbidities were similar in all three cohorts. Only two patients in the study experienced complications and these were without secondary adverse consequences. Mean costs were substantially reduced when UKAs were performed in an ASC ($9,025) compared to a community hospital on either an outpatient ($12,032) or inpatient basis ($14,542).

CONCLUSION

UKA can be safely performed in the outpatient setting, in appropriately selected patients, at substantial cost savings, particularly when performed in an ASC.

True "outpatient discharge" following single-stage bilateral unicompartmental knee arthroplasty may be unrealistic for most

BACKGROUND

Single-stage bilateral unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (BUKA) has shown post-operative function and cost benefits over staged bilateral procedures, without increased complications. A rapid discharge protocol at the current study site has reported outpatient discharge for the unilateral procedure exceeding 97%. However, the feasibility of outpatient discharge following BUKA remains unclear. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the success of achieving outpatient (< 24 h) discharge following BUKA, and identify patient variables associated with failure.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review was completed for 104 BUKA patients. All patients with bilateral, symptomatic unicompartmental knee arthritis were offered the single-stage procedure. Data collection included patient demographics, discharge status, and disposition location. Independent t tests (continuous) and Chi-squared tests (categorical) determined differences between discharge (outpatient/inpatient) and disposition (home/other) groups. Variables associated with discharge status and location were assessed with multivariable regression.

RESULTS

While 96 (92.3%) patients discharged within 24 h, only 63.5% were able to discharge directly home. Patients requiring a longer hospital stay (> 24 h) were more likely to require a pre-operative assistive device (62.5% and 25.0%, p = 0.037) and live alone (37.5 vs 8.3%, p = 0.033). For those discharged within 24 h, living alone significantly increased the risk (odds ratio: 5.800, p = 0.038) of requiring an acute inpatient facility prior to transition home.

CONCLUSION

Achieving "true" outpatient discharge is only modestly successful for most BUKA patients, as many required an acute inpatient or short-term rehabilitation facility prior to returning home. BUKA should be differentiated from the unilateral procedure regarding outpatient discharge expectations.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III, Case-control study; Retrospective comparative study.

Successful same-day discharge in 88% of patients after unicompartmental knee arthroplasty: a systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of day-case unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) by assessment of successful same-day discharge (SDD), readmission, complication and reoperation rates in the recent literature.

METHODS

For this systematic review and meta-analysis, PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Library were comprehensively searched to identify all eligible studies reporting outcomes of day-case UKA. Studies with intended same-day home discharge after UKA were included. A meta-analysis of proportions, using a random-effects model, was performed to estimate overall rates of successful SDD and adverse events. Subgroup analyses were performed for studies including selected patients (i.e., patients had to meet certain patient-specific criteria to be eligible for day-case UKA) and unselected patients (i.e., no additional criteria for day-case UKA), as well as for clinical and registry-based studies. Additional outcomes included reasons for the failure of SDD and patient satisfaction.

RESULTS

A total of 29 studies and 9694 patients were included with a mean age of 66 ± 9 years and mean follow-up of 59 days (mean range 30-270 days). Based on 24 studies (2733 patients), the overall successful SDD rate was 88% (95% confidence interval [CI] 80-92). These rates were 91% (95% CI 84-95) across studies with selected patients and 76% (95% CI 55-89) across studies with unselected patients. Overall readmission, complication and reoperation rates were 3% (95% CI 1.9-4.4), 4% (95% CI 2.8-5.2) and 1% (95% CI 0.8-1.3), respectively. Inability to mobilize, nausea and uncontrolled pain were frequently reported reasons for failed SDD. The overall patient satisfaction rate was 94%.

CONCLUSION

This systematic review with meta-analysis found an overall successful SDD rate of 88% after UKA in a heterogeneous cohort of selected and unselected patients. Readmission, complication and reoperation rates suggest UKA can be performed safely and effectively as a same-day discharge procedure.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, systematic review of level III and IV studies.

Current Status Regarding the Safety of Inpatient Versus Outpatient Total Shoulder Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Surgeons have begun to transition total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) to the outpatient setting in order to contain costs and reallocate resources.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this systematic review was to evaluate the safety and cost of outpatient TSA by assessing associated complication rates, clinical outcomes, and total treatment charges.

METHODS

The MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane Library online databases were queried in March 2020 for studies on outpatient shoulder arthroplasty. Inclusion criteria were (1) a study population undergoing TSA, (2) discharge on the day of surgery, and (3) inclusion of at least 1 reported outcome.

RESULTS

Of 20 studies identified that met inclusion criteria, 14 were comparative studies involving an inpatient control group, 2 of which were matched by age and comorbidities. The remaining studies used control groups consisting of inpatient TSAs who were older or more medically infirm according to American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) or Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) scores. The combined average age of the outpatient and inpatient groups was 66.5 and 70.1 years, respectively. Patients who underwent outpatient TSA had similar rates of readmissions, emergency department visits, and perioperative complications in comparison to inpatients. Patients also reported comparably high levels of satisfaction with outpatient procedures. Four economic analyses demonstrated substantial cost savings with outpatient TSA in comparison to inpatient surgery.

CONCLUSION

In carefully selected patients, outpatient TSA appears to be equally safe but less resource intensive than inpatient arthroplasty. Nonetheless, there remains a need for larger prospective studies to decisively characterize the relative safety of outpatient TSA among patients with similar baseline health.

Predictors of Successful Early Discharge for Total Hip and Knee Arthroplasty in Octogenarians

Background: Decreased length of stay after total joint arthroplasty (TJA) is becoming a more common way to contain healthcare costs and increase patient satisfaction. There is little evidence to support "early" discharge in elderly patients. Purpose: We sought to identify preoperative factors that correlated with early discharge (by postoperative day [POD] 1) in comparison to late discharge (after POD2) in octogenarians after TJA. Methods: In a retrospective cohort study from a single institution, we identified 482 patients ages 80 to 89 who underwent primary TJA from January 2014 to December 2017; 319 had total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and 163 had total hip arthroplasty (THA). Data collected included preoperative knee range of motion (ROM), demographics, and comorbidities; 90-day readmission and mortality rates were also evaluated. P values for continuous data were calculated using student's t test and for categorical data using χ² testing. Results: Of octogenarian patients, 30.9% were discharged by POD1. Early discharge was associated with being male, married, and nonsmoking, as well as having an American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score of 2, independent preoperative ambulation, and a postoperative caregiver. Type of procedure (TKA vs THA), body mass index, laterality, preoperative range of motion (ROM) for TKA, and single vs multilevel home did not affect the probability of early discharge. Discharge on POD1 was not associated with increased 90-day readmission rates. There were no deaths. Conclusion: Early discharge for octogenarians can be successfully implemented in a select subset of patients without increasing 90-day readmission or death rates. There are multiple factors that predict successful early discharge.

Rapid implementation of an outpatient arthroplasty care pathway: a COVID-19-driven quality improvement initiative

Background

Hip and knee total joint arthroplasty (TJA) procedures are two of the most common inpatient surgical procedures worldwide. Outpatient TJA has emerged as a feasible option. COVID-19 caused significant constraints on inpatient surgical resources and contributed to a growing surgical backlog. We present a quality improvement (QI) initiative aimed at adding an outpatient TJA pathway to our pre-existing inpatient TJA programme, with the target of performing 25% of our primary TJA as outpatients.

Methods

This was a QI study at a tertiary level arthroplasty centre. To achieve our aim, a patient-centred needs analysis revealed the need to develop patient selection criteria, perform a specific and tailored anaesthetic, provide patient education and conduct virtual care follow-up. Based on these findings, an outpatient TJA intervention bundle was developed and implemented.

Results

After implementing the outpatient pathway, 65 patients were scheduled for outpatient TJA. Fifty-five (84.6%) patients were successfully discharged home on the day of surgery. Successful outpatient TJA accounted for 33.3% of all primary TJAs performed at our intuition throughout the study period. There was excellent adherence to the intervention protocols, with the success hinging on multidisciplinary team and supported QI culture. Thirty-day emergency department visits for inpatient and outpatient TJAs were 8.93% and 6.15%, respectively. No outpatient TJA patients required hospital readmission within 30 days.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates that implementation of an outpatient TJA pathway in response to inpatient resource constraints during the COVID-19 pandemic is feasible. The findings of this report will be of interest to surgical centres facing surgical backlog and constraints on inpatient resources during and after the pandemic.

Outpatient Shoulder Arthroplasty-A Systematic Review

Objective

Recent reports have shown that outpatient shoulder arthroplasty (SA) may be a safe alternative to inpatient management in appropriately selected patients. The purpose was to review the literature reporting on outpatient SA.

Methods

A systematic review of publications on outpatient SA was performed. Included publications discussed patients who were discharged on the same calendar day or within 23 hours from surgery. Articles were categorized by discussions on complications, readmissions, and safety, patient selection, pain management strategies, cost effectiveness, and patient and surgeon satisfaction.

Results

Twenty-six articles were included. Patients undergoing outpatient SA were younger and with a lower BMI than those undergoing inpatient SA. Larger database studies reported more medical complications for patients undergoing inpatient compared to outpatient SA. Articles on pain management strategies discussed both single shot and continuous interscalene blocks with similar outcomes. Both patients and surgeons reported high levels of satisfaction following outpatient SA, and cost analysis studies demonstrated significant cost savings for outpatient SA.

Conclusion

In appropriately selected patients, outpatient SA can be a safe, cost-saving alternative to inpatient care and may lead to high satisfaction of both patients and physicians, though further studies are needed to clarify appropriate utilization of outpatient SA.

On the generalizability of same-day partial knee replacement surgery-A non-selective interventional study evaluating efficacy, patient satisfaction, and safety in a public hospital setting

PURPOSE

Programs referred to as Fast-Track/Rapid Recovery/Enhanced Recovery After Surgery have proven both effective and safe in joint replacement surgery, to the degree where same-day discharge (SDD) has been attempted in carefully selected cases at specialized outpatient units. Therefore, the primary aim of this study was to evaluate a same-day surgery protocol regarding safety using the minor partial knee replacement (PKR) procedure by non-selectively recruiting patients at a public hospital for one consecutive year.

METHODS

33 unselected PKR cases were included in this open clinical trial. The inclusion/exclusion criteria were solely based on logistics, as all the procedures were medial PKRs, designated the first morning slots, and performed by one single-surgeon. Strict postoperative criteria based on vital parameters, urinary function, bleeding, and mobilization had to be met before discharge was considered. SDD rate, patient satisfaction, number of outpatient visits, adverse events and readmissions within 90 days were evaluated. A predetermined subgroup analysis was also conducted where patients <80 yrs. and with an American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) classification <III was compared with those aged ≥80 yrs. and/or ASA class ≥III.

RESULTS

29 of 33 (88%) successfully achieved SDD. In a univariate comparison, 100% of the patients <80 yrs. and ASA class <III achieved SDD, whereas a corresponding 43% applied for those aged ≥80 yrs. and/or ASA class ≥III (p = 0.001). A 93% overall satisfaction rate was reached. Only 8% extra outpatient visits were required, all occurring within the first 2 weeks (well in line with routine practice.) One plausible transient ischemic attack and one readmission caused by a penetrating trauma not affecting the knee were identified, both of which happened 10 weeks after surgery. No adverse events or readmissions occurred within the first 48 hours of surgery.

CONCLUSION

When following strict criteria for discharge, same-day partial knee replacement surgery may be both feasible and safe, even without preselection of patients.

The patient perspective, experience and satisfaction of day case unicompartmental knee arthroplasty: A short-term mixed-methods study

BACKGROUND

Day case unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) is increasingly being performed worldwide. When performed in the appropriate patient, day case UKA has been demonstrated to be safe, cost effective and improve resource allocation. Limited evidence highlights increased patient satisfaction of day case UKA when compared with inpatient UKA. A detailed study of the patient perspective, experience and satisfaction following day case UKA has not been described before.

METHODS

A retrospective case series review of 21 consecutive patients (19 unilateral, 2 bilateral) undergoing day case UKA in an elective orthopaedic centre was undertaken. A qualitative and quantitative patient assessment of the day case UKA experience was administered. A five-point Likert scale satisfaction questionnaire, Oxford Knee Score (OKS) and open-ended interview was undertaken. The qualitative responses underwent thematic analysis.

RESULTS

One hundred percent of patients expressed satisfaction (76.2% completely satisfied, 33.8% moderately satisfied) with day case UKA. The majority of patients (90.5%) reported that if they had to undergo UKA again they would prefer a day case over an inpatient procedure. Patients consider surgical outcome, physiotherapy provision, discharge planning, postoperative medications and follow up as key aspects of day case UKA care. One patient was re-admitted following discharge.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study demonstrates a high level of patient satisfaction with day case UKA. The results reported herein are subject to the study limitations of sample size, recall bias and inclusion criteria. We recommend that the themes identified by patients are addressed through a multidisciplinary approach with well-defined clinical pathways for a high-quality patient-centred experience.

Fewer Adverse Events Following Outpatient Compared with Inpatient Unicompartmental Knee Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) is a common procedure for unicompartmental knee arthritis, often resulting in pain relief and improved function. The demand for total knee arthroplasty in the U.S. is projected to grow 85% between 2014 and 2030, and the volume of UKA procedures is growing 3 to 6 times faster than that of total knee arthroplasty. The purpose of the present study was to examine the safety of outpatient and inpatient UKA and to investigate changes over time as outpatient procedures were performed more frequently.

METHODS

Patients who underwent UKA from 2005 to 2018 as part of the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program were identified. Patients were divided into an early cohort (5,555 patients from 2005 to 2015) and late cohort (5,627 patients from 2016 to 2018). Outpatient status was defined as discharge on the day of surgery. Adverse events within 30 days postoperatively were compared, with adjustment for baseline characteristics with use of standard multivariate regression and propensity-score-matching techniques.

RESULTS

Among the 5,555 cases in the early cohort, the rate of surgical-site infection was lower for inpatient (0.84%) compared with outpatient UKA (1.69%; adjusted relative risk [RR] for inpatient, 0.5; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.2 to 1.0; p = 0.045); no other significant differences were identified. Among the 5,627 cases in the late cohort, inpatient UKA had higher rates of any complication (2.53% compared with 0.95% for outpatient UKA; adjusted RR for inpatient, 2.5; 95% CI, 1.4 to 4.3; p = 0.001) and readmission (1.81% compared with 0.88% for outpatient UKA; adjusted RR for inpatient, 2.0; 95% CI, 1.1 to 3.5; p = 0.023). In the propensity-score-matched comparison for the late cohort, inpatient UKA had a higher rate of any complication (RR for inpatient, 2.0; 95% CI, 1.0 to 4.0; p = 0.049) and return to the operating room (RR for inpatient, 4.3; 95% CI, 1.4 to 12.6; p = 0.009). Although the rate of readmission was almost twice as high among inpatients (1.67% compared with 0.84% for outpatients; RR for inpatient, 2.0; 95% CI, 1.0 to 4.1; p = 0.059), this difference did not reach significance with the sample size studied. There was a significant reduction in the overall rate of complications over time (3.44% in the early cohort compared with 2.11% in the late cohort; adjusted RR for late cohort, 0.7; 95% CI, 0.5 to 0.8; p = 0.001), with a more than fourfold reduction among outpatients (3.95% in the early cohort compared with 0.95% in the late cohort; adjusted RR for late cohort, 0.3; 95% CI, 0.1 to 0.5; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Outpatient UKA was associated with a lower risk of complications compared with inpatient UKA when contemporary data are examined. We identified a dramatic reduction in complications across the early and late cohorts, suggesting an improvement in quality over time, with the largest improvements seen among outpatients. This shift may represent changes in patient selection or improvements in perioperative protocols.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Day case unicompartmental knee replacement: An update of the Torbay experience

BACKGROUND

Hospitals throughout the United Kingdom face significant challenges in regards to inpatient bed capacity, leading to growing interest in day case arthroplasty. Day case Unicompartmental Knee Replacement (UKR) has been offered within our unit since 2010, with successive evaluations of pathway outcomes performed in 2011 and 2015. Since then, our day case UKR pathway has expanded. This study aims to evaluate the safety, efficiency and patient satisfaction with this expanded pathway.

METHODS

Data was prospectively collected for all patients undergoing a UKR between January 2017 and August 2019. Data collected included the pathway planned, date of admission, date of discharge and re-admissions to hospital within 30 days of surgery. Patient satisfaction was evaluated via a follow-up questionnaire.

RESULTS

109 patients underwent a UKR between January 2017 and August 2019. 83 patients (76%) were planned through the day case pathway. 63 patients were successfully discharged on the day of surgery. One day case pathway and two inpatient pathway patients were re-admitted within 30 days of surgery with medical conditions. A high level of patient satisfaction with our day case pathway was identified.

CONCLUSION

UKR with planned discharge on the day of surgery is possible for a large proportion of patients provided that robust pathway and protocol design is undertaken. Following 10 years' experience, our day case UKR pathway has increasingly become the default for the majority of our patients. We report high patient satisfaction and low 30-day re-admission rates. However, 100% success rate for day of surgery discharge remains challenging.

Day-case unicompartmental knee arthroplasty: a literature review and development of a novel hospital pathway

INTRODUCTION

We have seen unparalleled changes in our healthcare systems globally as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. As we strive to regenerate our full capacity elective services in order to contest the increasing demand for lower limb arthroplasty, this pandemic has allowed us a rare opportunity to revise and develop novel elective arthroplasty pathways intended to improve patient care and advance healthcare efficiency. We present an extensive evidence-based review of the approaches used to achieve day-case unicompartmental arthroplasty (UKA) as well as the development of a day-case UKA care pathway in a UK NHS institution based on the evidence provided in the literature.

METHODS

An extensive search of the literature was performed for articles that reported on readmission or complication rates ≥30 days postoperatively following day-case UKA.

FINDINGS

Fifteen manuscripts reporting the results of day-case UKA, defined as discharged on the same calendar day of surgery, were included in our review. Mean reported complication rates for day-case and inpatient UKA within the follow-up periods were 4.05% and 6.52%, respectively. Mean readmission rates were 2.71% and 4.36% for day-case and inpatient UKA, respectively. The mean rate of successful same-day discharge was 92.45%.

CONCLUSION

We introduce our institutional Elective Day Surgery Arthroplasty Pathway (EDSAP) founded upon the evidence presented in the literature. Stringent patient selection complimented by a well-defined day-case arthroplasty pathway is fundamental for successful commencement of day-case UKA in the NHS.

Does Body Mass Index Cause a Clinical Difference in Simultaneous Bilateral and Unilateral Knee Arthroplasty?

This study aims to investigate clinical and functional factors in patients undergoing unilateral and simultaneous bilateral total knee arthroplasty (TKA) who were classified into subgroups of nonobese, obese, and morbidly obese, and to determine perioperative and postoperative complications. We conducted an evaluation of 489 nonobese, obese, and morbidly obese patients who underwent TKA due to primary knee osteoarthritis between January 2006 and December 2013. The arthroplasties were performed by three different surgeons. Patients who underwent unilateral (group 1) or simultaneous bilateral (group 2) TKAs were divided into subgroups in accordance with BMI levels, that is, (a) nonobese (BMI < 30 kg/m²), (b) obese (BMI = 30-34.9 kg/m²), and (c) morbidly obese (BMI ≥35 kg/m²). Clinical and functional assessments were performed using Knee Society Scores (KSSs), the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis index (WOMAC), and range of motion (ROM) values. Perioperative and early postoperative complications were assessed. The mean follow-up period was 46.65 months (minimum: 24 months; maximum: 84 months). There were no significant differences between the patients undergoing unilateral or simultaneous bilateral TKA procedures regarding postoperative ROM, WOMAC indices, and KSSs (p > 0.05), except for morbidly obese patients. Most intraoperative and early postoperative complications occurred in the morbidly obese group, especially in those undergoing simultaneous bilateral TKA procedures (p < 0.001). Unilateral and simultaneous bilateral TKA procedures showed no differences regarding ROM, clinical scores, and perioperative and early postoperative complications in nonobese and obese patients. A moderate increase was detected in complication rates in the unilateral TKA morbidly obese patients (group 1c); however, morbidly obese patients constituted the major risk group in simultaneous bilateral TKA patients (group 2c) regarding clinical scores (lower WOMAC scores and KSSs) and the development of complications.

Economic Analysis and Clinical Outcomes of Short-Stay Versus Inpatient Total Ankle Replacement Surgery

BACKGROUND

We aimed to perform an economic analysis and compare the clinical outcomes between inpatient and short-stay designation total ankle replacement (TAR).

METHODS

We performed a retrospective study on 178 consecutive patients undergoing primary inpatient versus short-stay designation TAR during the 2016 and 2017 fiscal years. Patient demographics, concomitant procedures, perioperative complications, patient-reported outcomes, and perioperative costs were collected.

RESULTS

The mean age of our cohort was 62.5 ± 9.6 years (range, 30-88 years), with a significant difference in age (64.1 vs 58.5 years) (P = .005) and Charlson Comorbidity Index (3.3 ± 1.9 vs 2.3 ± 1.4; P = .002) for the inpatient and short-stay designation groups, respectively. At a mean follow-up of 29.6 ± 11.8 months (range, 12-52.3 months), there was no difference in complications between groups (P = .97). The inpatient designation TAR group had a worse baseline Short Musculoskeletal Functional Assessment (SMFA) function score (76.1; 95% CI, 70.5-81.6) than the short-stay designation TAR group (63.9; 95% CI, 52.5-75.3) while achieving similar final postoperative SMFA function scores for the inpatient (55.2; 95% CI, 51.1-59.2) and short-stay (56.2; 95% CI, 48.2-64.2) designation TAR groups (P > .05). However, the inpatient designation TAR group showed a significantly greater mean improvement in SMFA function score (20.9; 95% CI, 19.4-22.4) compared with the short-stay designation TAR group (7.7; 95% CI, 3.7-11.1) (P = .0442). The total direct cost was significantly higher for the inpatient designation group ($15 340) than the short-stay designation group ($13 002) (P < .001).

CONCLUSION

While inpatient designation TARs were more comorbid, short-stay designation TARs were associated with a 15.5% reduction in perioperative costs, comparable complication rates, and similar final postoperative patient-reported outcome scores compared with inpatient TARs.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, retrospective comparative study.

"Outpatient"-Same-calendar-day Discharge Hip and Knee Arthroplasty

As the length of stay for hip and knee arthroplasty has decreased over the years, "outpatient," or same-calendar-day discharge has become increasingly common. Outpatient arthroplasty offers several possible benefits over traditional inpatient arthroplasty, including potential for cost reductions, faster rehabilitation, improved patient satisfaction, and reduced reliance on hospital resources. Despite these possible benefits, concerns remain over feasibility and patient safety. To date, multiple studies have demonstrated that, for select patients, "outpatient" hip and knee arthroplasty can be safe and effective and yield complication and readmission rates similar to inpatient procedures at potentially significant cost savings. Successful outpatient pathways have emphasized careful patient selection, detailed patient education, enlistment of strong social support, utilization of multimodal analgesia and strong "episode ownership," and involvement on behalf of the surgical team. As outpatient hip and knee arthroplasty becomes increasingly common, continued investigation into all aspects of the surgical episode is warranted.

Barriers to achieving same day discharge following unilateral unicompartmental knee arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Evidence suggests that only a minority of unselected patients are able to achieve same day (SD) discharge following unilateral unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA). However, many hospitals continue to classify UKA as an outpatient procedure, creating financial pressure to limit prolonged hospitalizations. To understand and address challenges that decrease patients' likelihood of achieving SD discharge, this study aimed to identify barriers commonly contributing to SD discharge failures with following a rapid discharge protocol (RDP).

METHODS

Retrospectively collected data from 158 unselected patients having undergone unilateral UKA between 2018 and 2019 were reviewed. All patients were treated using an established RPD with intended SD discharge.

RESULTS

Successful SD discharge was achieved by 84.2% of patient. Overall, those failing to achieve SD discharge were older (p < 0.001), more commonly female (p = 0.037), have multiple functional deficits (p < 0.05) and experience post-operative nausea (p < 0.001). Increased age, the use of an assisted device, and post-operative nausea accounted for 44.8% of the variability for patient not achieving SD discharge. The model was able to classify 95.7% of SD discharge and 38.1% of unsuccessful SD discharge patients, for an overall success rate of 85.1%.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of a well-developed, interdisciplinary RDP for unilateral UKA results in high SD discharge success in a community hospital setting. However, with 15.8% of patients still not able to achieve SD discharge, a more efficient RDP may include prioritizing patient scheduling, with lower priority given to older individuals requiring an assisted device, and changes to preventative and symptomatic treatment options for post-operative nausea.

Unicompartmental knee arthroplasty undertaken using a fast-track protocol

Aims

The aim of this prospective multicentre study was to describe trends in length of stay and early complications and readmissions following unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) performed at eight different centres in Denmark using a fast-track protocol and to compare the length of stay between centres with high and low utilization of UKA.

Methods

We included data from eight dedicated fast-track centres, all reporting UKAs to the same database, between 2010 and 2018. Complete ( > 99%) data on length of stay, 90-day readmission, and mortality were obtained during the study period. Specific reasons for a length of stay of > two days, length of stay > four days, and 30- and 90-day readmission were recorded. The use of UKA in the different centres was dichotomized into ≥ 20% versus < 20% of arthroplasties which were undertaken being UKAs, and ≥ 52 UKAs versus < 52 UKAs being undertaken annually.

Results

A total of 3,927 procedures were included. Length of stay (mean 1.1 days (SD 1.1), median 1 (IQR 0 to 1)) was unchanged during the study period. The proportion of procedures with a length of stay > two days was also largely unchanged during this time. The percentage of patients discharged on the day of surgery varied greatly between centres (0% to 50% (0 to 481)), with centres with high UKA utilization (both usage and volume) having a larger proportion of same-day discharges. The 30- and 90-day readmissions were 166 (4.2%) and 272 (6.9%), respectively; the 90-day mortality was 0.08% (n = 3).

Conclusion

Our findings suggest general underutilization of the potential for quicker recovery following UKA in a fast-track setup. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(9):1167–1175.

Reasons for Unsuccessful Same-Day Discharge Following Outpatient Hip and Knee Arthroplasty: 5½ Years' Experience From a Single Institution

BACKGROUND

Outpatient joint arthroplasty (OJA) is considered safe and feasible in selected patients but should be further optimized to improve success rates. The purposes of this study are to (1) identify the main reasons of unsuccessful same-day discharge (SDD) following hip and knee arthroplasty; (2) determine the hospital length of stay (LOS) following unsuccessful SDD; and (3) assess which independent variables are related to specific reasons for unsuccessful SDD.

METHODS

Five hundred twenty-five patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA), total knee arthroplasty (TKA), and unicompartmental knee arthroplasty between 2013 and 2019 were retrospectively identified. SDD to home was planned in all patients. Specific reasons for unsuccessful SDD and LOS were assessed. Bivariate analysis was performed to find differences in independent variables between patients experiencing a specific reason for unsuccessful SDD and control patients.

RESULTS

One hundred ten patients (21%) underwent unsuccessful SDD. The main reason was postoperative reduced motor function and sensory disturbances (33%). The mean LOS in the unsuccessful SDD group was 1.7 days (standard deviation ± 1.0 days). Postoperative transient reduced motor function and sensory disturbances occurred more often in patients undergoing TKA (P < .001).

CONCLUSION

An option for overnight stay should be available when performing outpatient hip and knee arthroplasty. The main reason for unsuccessful SDD in this study was transient postoperative reduced motor function and sensory disturbance, most likely due to intraoperative local infiltration analgesia in TKA. No other studies have found local infiltration analgesia to be an issue preventing SDD.

Why are patients still in hospital after fast-track, unilateral unicompartmental knee arthroplasty

Background and purpose - Previous studies have investigated risk factors related to prolonged length of stay following total knee arthroplasty (TKA), but little is known about specific factors resulting in continued hospitalization within the 1st postoperative days after unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA). We investigated what specific factors prevent patients from being discharged on the day of surgery (DOS) and the first postoperative day (POD-1) following primary UKA in a fast-track setting.Patients and methods - We prospectively collected data on 100 consecutive and unselected medial UKA patients operated from December 2017 to May 2019. All patients were operated in a standardized fast-track setup with functional discharge criteria continuously evaluated from DOS and until discharge.Results - Median length of stay for the entire cohort was 1 day. 22% and 78% of all patients were discharged on DOS and POD-1, respectively. Lack of mobilization and pain separately delayed discharge in respectively 78% and 24% of patients on DOS. The main reasons for lack of mobilization were motor blockade (37%) and logistical factors (26%). For patients placed 1st or 2nd on the operating list, we estimate that the same-day discharge rate would increase to 55% and 40% respectively, assuming that pain and mobilization were successfully managed.Interpretation - One-fifth of unselected UKA patients operated in a standardized fast-track setup were discharged on DOS. Pain and lack of mobilization were the major reasons for continued hospitalization within the initial postoperative 24-48 hours. Strategies aimed at decreasing length of stay after UKA should strive to improve analgesia and postoperative mobilization.

A propensity score-matched analysis comparing outpatient and short-stay hospitalization to standard inpatient hospitalization following total ankle arthroplasty

Background

Given the trend toward value-based care, there has been increased interest in minimizing hospital length of stay (LOS) after orthopedic procedures. Outpatient total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) has become more popular in recent years; however, research on surgical outcomes of this procedure has been limited. This study sought to employ large sample, propensity score-matched analyses to assess the safety of outpatient and short-stay discharge pathways following TAA.

Methods

The ACS NSQIP database was used to identify 1141 patients who underwent primary and revision TAA between 2007 and 2017. Propensity score matching was used to match patients based on several factors, including age, sex, body mass index (BMI), American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) classification, and several comorbidities. The incidence of various 30-day complications was compared between the short and standard LOS groups to assess for any differences in short-term outcomes.

Results

A total of 892 patients were included in the final propensity score-matched analysis, with 446 patients in each group. The short LOS group had a significantly lower rate of medical complications (0.2% vs. 2.5%, p = 0.006) and non-home discharge (1.3% vs. 12.1%, p < 0.001). There was no significant difference in operative complications (0.4% vs. 1.8%, p = 0.107), unplanned readmission (0.4% vs. 1.1%, p = 0.451), reoperation (0.2% vs. 0.4%, p > 0.999), return to the OR (0.2% vs. 0.9%, p = 0.374), or mortality (0.7% vs. 0.0%, p > 0.249) between the short and standard LOS groups.

Conclusions

Outpatient and short-stay hospitalization had comparable safety to standard inpatient hospitalization after TAA. Outpatient or short-stay TAA should be considered for patients with low risk of short-term complications.

Day of surgery discharge success after implementation of a rapid discharge protocol following unilateral unicompartmental knee arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Unilateral unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) is considered an outpatient procedure, however, previous research has reported a wide success rate range for day of surgery (DOS) discharge. Previous rapid discharge protocols (RDPs) have focused on pain management and nausea control but are commonly done in outpatient facilities, limiting the generalizability to the community hospital setting. Therefore, this study compared the rate of successful DOS discharge after the implementation of a RDP compared to the previous standard discharge protocol (SDP) following unilateral UKA.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review was completed for 174 unselected consecutive patients having undergone unilateral UKA between January 2016 and May 2018. The RDP was implemented in March 2017, with the addition of an arthroplasty dedicated hospitalist, a change to patient discharge expectations and a change to post-operative patient navigation. All other surgical and patient care procedures were identical for both groups.

RESULTS

Evaluation included 89 patients in the SDP group and 90 patients in the RDP group. Successful DOS discharge rate increased significantly from 11.2% for the SDP group to 72.2% for the RDP group (p = 0.000). Two patients from each group were treated with antibiotics for stitch abscess and no patient sustained a major complication within 90 days.

CONCLUSIONS

Small, significant changes applied in the current study resulted in a significant increase in success of DOS discharge. These procedures can be easily implemented in all settings and may be more representative of the discharge capabilities for non-selected patients seen in the community hospital setting.

Predictors of extended length of stay after unicompartmental knee arthroplasty

PURPOSE

To identify factors that independently predict extended length of stay after unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) surgery (defined as length of stay longer than 3 days), and to identify factors predicting early post-operative complications.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of all patients undergoing UKA from January 2016-January 2019 at our institution was performed. Clinical notes were reviewed to determine the following information: Patient age (years), gender, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) grade, weight (kg), height (meters), body mass index (BMI), co-morbidities, indication for surgery, surgeon, surgical volume, surgical technique (navigated or patient-specific instrumentation), implant manufacturer, estimated blood loss (ml), application of tourniquet during the surgery, application of drain, hospital length of stay (days) and surgical complications.

RESULTS

Multivariate regression analysis showed that ASA 3-4 vs. ASA 1-2 [OR 4.4 (CI; 1.8-10.8, p = 0.001)] and a history of cardiovascular disease [OR 2.8 (CI; 1.4-5.5), p = 0.004)] were significant independent predictors of prolonged length of stay. Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness of fit of the model showed a p-value of 0.214. Nagelkerke R-Square was 0.2. For complications, multivariate regression analysis showed that ASA 3-4 vs. ASA 1-2 [OR 5.8 (CI; 1.7-20.7)] and high BMI (BMI >30) [OR 4.3 (CI; 1.1-17.1)] were significant independent predictors of complications. Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness of fit was 0.89 and Nagelkerke R-Square was 0.2. Patients treated with robotics (Navio) techniques had shorter length of stay median 51 h (IQR; 29-96) when compared to other techniques 72 h (IQR; 52-96), p = 0.008.

CONCLUSION

Based on the results of our study, high ASA grade (≥3) appears to be the most important factor excluding eligibility for fast-track UKA. Any number of co-morbidities may increase ASA, but in and of themselves, apart from a history of cardiovascular disease, they should not be seen as contraindications. Appropriate patient selection, technical tools and details during the surgery could facilitate fast track surgery.

Experience-optimised fast track improves outcomes and decreases complications in total knee arthroplasty

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to describe an advanced total knee arthroplasty (TKA) fast-track programme and determine discharge parameters during hospitalisation, as well as patient satisfaction, outcomes and complications within the first 12 months after surgery.

METHODS

This prospective study was based on patients selected consecutively for primary elective TKA, undergoing surgery between 2014 and 2017 in an established fast-track setting. Hospitalisation-related parameters were collected: demographics, body mass index (BMI), surgical time, ischaemia time, haemoglobin values, blood transfusions, length of stay, weight-bearing and stair-climbing time, opioid administration, preoperative and discharge loss of extension and maximum active flexion of the knee, visual analogue scale (VAS), 12-month follow-up satisfaction rate and range of motion, any complications, hospital re-admission and re-operation within the first 12 months. Differences were determined using t-tests.

RESULTS

A total of 704 total knee replacements implanted in 481 patients were included in the study and 223 patients had a bilateral TKA. Their mean age was 69.8 years (range 57-88 years). At the 12-month follow-up, 623 patients (88.5%) reported being satisfied or very satisfied and 15 (2.1%) were dissatisfied with their TKA, mean active flexion and loss of extension were 104.4° and 2.3°, respectively. A total of 15 complications occurred (two percent): five painful knees, three knee stiffness, three haematomas, two infections, one hospital re-admission and one deep venous thrombosis. No cases of pulmonary embolism and death related to surgery were reported.

CONCLUSION

The study reports on an advanced fast-track programme for TKA with a low incidence of surgery- and hospitalisation-related issues and complications and without any severe adverse events during the first year. On average, the fast-track programme had a short length of stay, an early recovery of weight-bearing, knee mobility, pain control and a high satisfaction rate, accompanied with an acceptable 12 month range of motion.

Achieving discharge within 24 h of robotic unicompartmental knee arthroplasty may be possible with appropriate patient selection and a multi-disciplinary team approach

Aims

There has been significant interest in day-case and rapid discharge pathways for unicompartmental knee replacements (UKR). Robotic-assisted surgery has the potential to improve surgical accuracy in UKR. However, to date there are no published studies reporting results of rapid-discharge pathways in patients receiving UKR using the NAVIO ^◊ robotic system.

Methods

A retrospective analysis identified 19 patients who were safely discharged within 24 h following UKR using the NAVIO ^◊ robotic system between June 2017 and October 2019. All patients went through a standardised UKR pathway protocol. Pre-operatively patients underwent education sessions and anaesthetic assessment, with selected patients undergoing occupational/physiotherapy assessment prior to surgery. All patients received a general anaesthetic with local anaesthetic infiltration prior to closure; nerve blocks were not used routinely. A multi-modal analgesic regime was utilised. Patients were discharged home once they were safe to mobilise on ward, had normal vital signs and pain was adequately controlled. Patients were discharged with outpatient physiotherapy referral and consultant follow up at 6 weeks.

Results

All patients were discharged within 24 h; there were no post-operative complications and no readmissions to hospital. The mean length of stay was 19.5 h (SD = 6.8), with patients seen twice on average by physiotherapy post-operatively. Active range of motion at 6 weeks was 105.8°, with all patients mobilising independently. The median 6-month post-operative Oxford Knee Score was 44 out of 48.

Conclusion

This initial feasibility study suggests that patients may be safely discharged within 24 h of UKR using the NAVIO robotic system. Appropriate patient selection will ensure successful discharge. Further prospective studies are needed.

Should we routinely perform a post-operative hemoglobin check following unicompartmental knee arthroplasty?

OBJECTIVES

To study the significance of checking post-operative hemoglobin and hematocrit following unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA).

SETTING

Single center. Multiple surgeons.

DESIGN

Retrospective case series. Level of evidence IV.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Following institutional approval, a retrospective analysis of all patients undergoing UKA at our level one academic university hospital was conducted. Operative records of all patients undergoing primary UKA were reviewed between March 2016 and March 2019. Patients' pre-operative hemoglobin and hematocrit, BMI, co-morbidities, application of tourniquet, tourniquet time, administration of tranexamic acid, need for post-operative blood transfusion, hospital length of stay, complications, and re-admission were all recorded. Blood loss was estimated using the post-operative hematocrit.

RESULTS

A total number of 155 patients were included. There were 70 females (45%) and 85 males (55%). The mean age was 66 ± 10 years. Median pre-op blood volume was 4700 mLs (interquartile range (IQR); 4200-5100). Median blood loss was 600 mLs (IQR; 400-830). Mean pre-op hemoglobin was 135 ± 14 g/L and mean post-op hemoglobin was 122 ± 13 g/L. No patient had a post-op hemoglobin under 80 g/L (range 93-154). No patients in our study needed transfusion.

CONCLUSION

The results of our study indicated that post-operative hemoglobin and hematocrit check proved unnecessary in all of our patients and could have been omitted from post-operative routines. We conclude that routine post UKA check of hemoglobin and hematocrit can be avoided and be saved for special circumstances depending on patient's physiology.

Safety and Cost-Effectiveness of Outpatient Unicompartmental Knee Arthroplasty in the Ambulatory Surgery Center: A Matched Cohort Study

Using an age- and comorbidity-matched cohort, we compared patients who underwent unicompartmental knee arthroplasty in an ambulatory surgery center with those who underwent the procedure in a traditional hospital inpatient setting. Postoperatively, the ambulatory surgery center cohort had fewer major complications than the inpatient cohort. No ambulatory surgery center patients required acute hospital admission and none had major complications. Four major complications occurred in the inpatient cohort. There was no difference in complication rates. Our results suggest that outpatient unicompartmental knee arthroplasty in a freestanding ambulatory surgery center is a safe and reasonable alternative to the traditional inpatient hospital setting.

Incidence and safety profile of outpatient unicompartmental knee arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Outpatient surgery is an increasingly attractive option for patients undergoing procedures with established, acceptable risk profiles. Benefits of outpatient surgery include cost savings, enhanced patient experience and improved resource allocation at busy hospitals. The purpose of this study was to compare 90-day complication and readmission rates for patients undergoing unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) in the outpatient as opposed to the inpatient setting.

METHODS

Patients who underwent UKA (CPT code 27446) between 2007 and 2016 were retrospectively selected from a national private insurance database. Patients were defined as ambulatory if their coded location of procedure was in an ambulatory surgery center or as an in-hospital outpatient. Postoperative complications were identified using the Reportable Center for Medicare Services (CMS) Complication Measures. Risks of complications were compared between the inpatient and outpatient cohorts using multivariate logistic regression controlling for age, gender, and comorbidities.

RESULTS

2600 patients undergoing ambulatory UKA and 5084 patients undergoing inpatient UKA were identified. The percentage of UKA procedures performed on an outpatient basis significantly increased over the course of the study (14.5% to 58.1%, p < 0.001). After adjusting for age, gender, and comorbidities, ambulatory surgery was found to be associated with a decreased risk of postoperative transfusion (OR 0.28; p < 0.001) and pneumonia (OR 0.23; p = 0.008) and there was a trend towards decreased 90-day readmission risk (OR = 0.83; p = 0.062).

CONCLUSION

Ambulatory discharge following UKA is increasing in popularity, does not increase risk for perioperative complications or readmission, and may even portend a safer post-operative course.

Introduction of an innovative day surgery pathway for unicompartmental knee replacement: no need for early knee flexion

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the introduction of an innovative rehabilitation protocol, delaying knee flexion, for patients receiving unicompartmental knee replacement.

DESIGN

Longitudinal cohort.

SETTING

Specialist Orthopaedic Unit within an NHS Foundation Trust.

PARTICIPANTS

669 consecutive patients undergoing unicompartmental knee replacement.

INTERVENTION

An innovative rehabilitation protocol, delaying knee flexion.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Length of stay, range of movement, Surgical Satisfaction Questionnaire.

RESULTS

There were 669 consecutive primary unilateral unicompartmental knee replacements from September 2016 to February 2018. In total 264 patients (39%) went home on the day of surgery, 253 (38%) on day 1 and 152 (23%) stayed in 2 or more days (range 2 to 28 days). The mean length of stay reduced from 2.6 to 1.2days (median 1day). Mean flexion was 110° (range 30 to 140) at 6 weeks. The surgical satisfaction questionnaire showed that 90% of patients discharged on day 0 were very satisfied with the results of surgery.

CONCLUSION

Many components of traditional care were altered to introduce this protocol. The most important factors were delayed knee flexion providing benefits in terms of early mobilisation with no short term detriment, physiotherapists working late shifts, a consistent message and patient education. It was safe, effective and patient satisfaction was high.

Inpatient Versus Outpatient Arthroplasty: A Single-Surgeon, Matched Cohort Analysis of 90-Day Complications

BACKGROUND

Although some prior work supports the safety of same-day arthroplasty performed in a hospital, concerns remain when these procedures are performed in a free-standing ambulatory surgery center. The purpose of this study is to compare 90-day complication rates between matched cohorts that underwent inpatient vs outpatient arthroplasty at an ambulatory surgery center.

METHODS

A single-surgeon cohort of 243 consecutive patients who underwent outpatient arthroplasty was matched with 243 inpatients who had the same procedure. One-to-one nearest-neighbor matching with respect to gender, age, American Society of Anesthesiologists Score, and body mass index was utilized. The 486 primary arthroplasties included 178 unicondylar knees (36.6%), 146 total hips (30.0%), 92 total knees (18.9%), and 70 hip resurfacings (14.5%). Ninety-day outcomes including reoperation, readmission, unplanned clinic or emergency department visits, and major and minor complications were compared using a 2-sample proportions test.

RESULTS

The 2 cohorts were similar in distribution of demographic variables, demonstrating successful matching. The inpatient and outpatient cohorts both had readmission rates of 2.1% (P = 1.0). With the number of subjects studied, there were no statistically significant differences in rates of major complications (2.1% vs 2.5%, P = 1.0), minor complications (7.0% vs 7.8%, P = .86), reoperations (0.4% vs 2.1%, P = .22), emergency department visits (1.6% vs 2.5%, P = .52), or unplanned clinic visits (3.3% vs 5.8%, P = .19).

CONCLUSION

This study suggests that arthroplasty procedures can be performed safely in an ambulatory surgery center among appropriately selected patients without an increased risk of complications.

Identifying Reasons for Failed Same-Day Discharge Following Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

As total hip arthroplasty (THA) gains popularity in ambulatory surgery centers, it is important to understand the causes of failed same-day discharge (SDD). The purpose of this study is to (1) identify reasons for an overnight stay among patients selected as candidates for SDD following THA and (2) determine what pre-operative factors are more common among patients who fail SDD.

METHODS

This is a prospective cohort study of patients undergoing THA who were identified as candidates for SDD (<75 years, ambulate without walker, American Society of Anesthesiologists score 1-3, body mass index <40 kg/m², and agreed to SDD pre-operatively). The primary outcome was the reason for not discharging home on the same day of surgery. Secondary outcomes included the proportion of patients who failed SDD and any pre-operative patient characteristics that could be linked to failed SDD.

RESULTS

Seventy-eight of 106 (74%) patients pre-selected for SDD were successfully discharged per protocol. Of the 28 (26%) patients who failed SDD, the most common reasons for failure were patient preference (12), dizziness or hypotension (8), failure to clear physical therapy (5), urinary retention (2), and pain management (1). There was a higher percentage of patients in the failed SDD group who reported multiple allergies (P = .02), anxiety/depression (P = .24), obstructive sleep apnea (P = .38), and rheumatoid arthritis (P = .02).

CONCLUSION

SDD is a viable option for surgeons interested in rapid recovery THA. In a pool of patients selected for SDD, the main cause of SDD failure was a change in patient preference post-operatively, despite having agreed to SDD pre-operatively and meeting all discharge criteria.

Transition to outpatient total hip and knee arthroplasty: experience at an academic tertiary care center

Background

Interest in outpatient total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has increased recently as part of value-based care and early recovery protocols. Outpatient pathways require significant paradigm shifts, are not used widely, and are mostly implemented at outpatient surgery centers or orthopedic specialty hospitals. In this article, we report on the outcomes of implementation of an outpatient arthroplasty protocol at a tertiary care academic medical center.

Methods

We performed a retrospective review on a series of 105 consecutive patients who underwent THA or TKA following our newly implemented outpatient arthroplasty protocol. We compared these patients to a group of inpatient arthroplasty patients from the same time period.

Results

Eighty-three of 105 (79%) patients were successfully discharged home on the day of surgery. Successful same-day discharge was predicted by early ambulation (P = .01), TKA over THA (P = .04), and shorter duration of surgery (P = .01). General anesthesia correlated with better early ambulation distances (P = .03) and a lower incidence of urinary retention (P = .049). The outpatient readmission and complication rates were 0.95% and 1.9%, respectively, whereas the matched inpatient rates were 3.7% and 2.9%, respectively.

Conclusions

Outpatient THA and TKA in a well-selected patient is feasible in an academic multidisciplinary tertiary care hospital, with complication rates approximating inpatient surgery. The findings reported here can be used to further optimize outpatient arthroplasty protocols.

Ambulatory unicompartmental knee arthroplasty: Short outcome of 50 first cases

INTRODUCTION

The reduction in length of stay (LOS) in orthopedic surgery has been steady for several years. For the past 3 or 4 years in France, the trend toward outpatient surgery has been growing upwards, as it is a goal for hospital administration.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This is a prospective, continuous, mono-centric, single operator study on 56 UKAs. Included were all UKAs carried out between January 2014 and December 2015, meeting the following criteria: voluntary patients, supportive family environment, absence of comorbidity (oral anticoagulants, diabetes, obesity), ASA score≤3. Preoperatively, patients received: Dexamethasone 2mg/10kg, Tranexamic acid 2g, Cefazolin 2g IV. All patients were operated on under general anesthesia with the same technique: Alpina^® (Zimmer-Biomet) uni-prosthesis without tourniquet. The arthrotomy was closed after a capsular injection of a solution of 150mg Ropivacaine+30mg Bi-Profenid^®. Patient discharge on the same day evening was authorized by both surgeon and anesthesiologist. Three criteria were quantified: number of patients seen before the date of the first consultation for the removal of stitches (around day 12), Visual Pain Scale (10 points scale) on the first 12 days, and the level of satisfaction at the one-month postoperative visit.

RESULTS

Six patients (11%) were not included in the ambulatory program during the initial consultation. Three patients were not able to be discharged on the same day evening due to nausea and therefore remained hospitalized for one night. Eighteen patients (38%) were reviewed before D10: 13 patients were reviewed between D1 and D4 for bleeding through the dressing and 5 for pain not controlled by level 1 and 2 analgesics. The Visual Pain Scale (VPS) reached level 6±2 by the 2nd day and then dropped to 1±1 by the 12th day. At 1 month, 85% of the patients were satisfied or very satisfied with their care. There were no general or localized complications.

DISCUSSION

Ambulatory UKA surgery is possible for most patients. The inclusion rate for ambulatory UKA was 88% for Berger RA in 2010, therefore very close to this study rate of 89%. Ambulatory care is not only a change in surgical and anesthetic practice but a totally new management process involving all medical and non-medical actors. Ambulatory UKA surgery is feasible and safe for most patients.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV, retrospective cohort study.

Day-case surgery for total hip and knee replacement: How safe and effective is it?

Multimodal protocols for pain control, blood loss management and thromboprophylaxis have been shown to benefit patients by being more effective and as safe (fewer iatrogenic complications) as conventional protocols.Proper patient selection and education, multimodal protocols and a well-defined clinical pathway are all key for successful day-case arthroplasty.By potentially being more effective, cheaper than and as safe as inpatient arthroplasty, day-case arthroplasty might be beneficial for patients and healthcare systems. Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2018;3:130-135. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.3.170031.

The Shift to Same-Day Outpatient Joint Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Hip and knee arthroplasties length of stay continues to shorten after advances in perioperative and intraoperative management, as well as financial incentives. Some authors have demonstrated good results with outpatient arthroplasty, but safety and general feasibility of such procedures remain unclear. Our hypothesis is that outpatient arthroplasty would demonstrate higher readmission and complication rates than inpatient arthroplasty.

METHODS

We performed a systematic review of all publications on outpatient arthroplasty between January 1, 2000 and June 1, 2016. Included publications had to demonstrate a specific outpatient protocol and have reported perioperative complications and unplanned readmissions. Patient demographics, surgical variables, and protocol details were recorded in addition to complications, readmission, and reoperation.

RESULTS

Ten manuscripts accounting for 1009 patients demonstrated that 955 (94.7%) were discharged the same day as planned, with the majority of failures to discharge being secondary to pain, hypotension, and nausea. There were no deaths and only 1 major complication. Only 20 patients (1.98%) required reoperation and 20 (1.98%) had readmission or visited the emergency room within 90 days of their operation. In the 2 series recording patient outcomes, 80% and 96% of patients reported that they would choose to undergo outpatient arthroplasty again.

CONCLUSION

For carefully selected patients with experienced surgeons in major centers, outpatient arthroplasty may be a safe and effective procedure. Although our data is promising, further study is required to better elucidate the differences between inpatient and outpatient arthroplasty outcomes.

Is Outpatient Unicompartmental Knee Arthroplasty Safe to Perform at an Ambulatory Surgery Center? A Comparative Study of Early Post-Operative Complications

BACKGROUND

Unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) lends itself to the outpatient surgical setting. Prior literature has established a low rate of readmission and post-operative complications when performed in a hospital outpatient setting (HOP). To our knowledge, there have been no studies comparing complications of UKA performed at an ambulatory surgery center (ASC) and those in a HOP.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed all patients who underwent outpatient UKA by a single surgeon from 2012 to 2016. In all 569 outpatient UKAs were performed: 288 in the ASC group and 281 in the HOP group. We compared the groups with regard to all complications within the first 90 days after surgery.

RESULTS

Thirty minor and major complications occurred within 90 days (5.3%). There was no difference in the overall complication rate between groups (ASC 12, 4.2%; HOP 18, 6.4%) (P = .26). Day of surgery admission occurred once in the HOP group (0.4%) and did not occur in the ASC group (P = .49). There was 1 visit to the emergency department (ED) <24 hours from surgery in each group (ASC 0.3%, HOP 0.4%) (P = 1.0). ED visits occurred within 7 days in 3 ASC cases (1.0%) and 4 HOP cases (1.4%) (P = .72). Re-admissions in the first 90 days occurred in 5 ASC cases (1.7%) and 8 HOP cases (2.8%) (P = .41).

CONCLUSION

UKA at an ASC has a low early postoperative complication rate without increased risk of re-admission or ED evaluation when compared to UKAs performed at a HOP.

Outpatient Total Hip Arthroplasty, Total Knee Arthroplasty, and Unicompartmental Knee Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review of the Literature

BACKGROUND

The demand for total hip arthroplasty (THA), total knee arthroplasty (TKA), and unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) is growing rapidly because of the proven success of these procedures and an increase in the aging population. However, resources are limited and health-care budgets are finite. Recently, a number of care providers have started performing these procedures on an outpatient basis, with the patients being discharged from the hospital on the day of surgery. The primary objective of this systematic review was to examine the evidence regarding the safety and feasibility of performing THA, TKA, or UKA on an outpatient basis.

METHODS

An electronic search of 3 online databases (Embase, MEDLINE, and HealthSTAR) was conducted to identify eligible studies. The reference lists of identified articles were then screened. All studies evaluating outcomes following outpatient THA, TKA, or UKA were included. Eligible articles that included a comparative group were assessed for methodological quality with use of the Cochrane Risk of Bias Assessment Tool for Non-Randomized Studies of Interventions (ACROBAT-NRSI). Non-comparative studies were assessed for quality with use of the Effective Public Health Practice Project (EPHPP) Quality Assessment Instrument.

RESULTS

The electronic literature search yielded 805 articles. Following a review of the titles, abstracts and reference lists, 26 articles remained and were assessed for eligibility. Of those, 17 articles (≈79,500 patients) met the inclusion criteria and were included in the review. Although both quality-assessment tools showed that the majority of studies included in the review were of poor quality, there was no increase in readmission rates or perioperative complications among patients who underwent outpatient procedures. Studies assessing satisfaction illustrated a high level of satisfaction for the majority of patients. The average age of the patients in the THA studies ranged from 53.5 to 63 years. The TKA and UKA studies included an older population, with mean ages ranging from 55 to 68 years. The majority of the included studies included a larger percentage of males as compared with females. Of the 17 included studies, 4 were cohort studies with a control group and 13 were case series. All 4 cohort studies indicated that the complication rates and clinical outcomes were similar between the inpatient and outpatient groups. Furthermore, the 3 studies that involved an economic analysis indicated that outpatient arthroplasty is financially advantageous.

CONCLUSIONS

In selected patients, outpatient THA, TKA, and UKA can be performed safely and effectively. The included studies lacked sufficient internal validity, sample size, methodological consistency, and standardization of protocols and outcomes. There is a need for high-quality prospective cohort and randomized trials to definitively assess the safety and effectiveness of outpatient THA, TKA, and UKA.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Outpatient Total Knee Arthroplasty: Are We There Yet? (Part 2)

The method by which surgeons conduct outpatient total knee procedures has yet to be fully elucidated. Literature demonstrates different experiences from various care protocols in place across the nation. This article reviews current recommendations for implementing successful total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and unicompartmental knee arthroplasty outpatient protocols. Specifically, information regarding anesthesia and analgesia modalities, perioperative care, operative technique, and postoperative care within outpatient TKA pathways is discussed.

Physical activity after outpatient surgery and enhanced recovery for total knee arthroplasty

PURPOSE AND HYPOTHESIS

The purpose of this study was to 'objectively' measure improvement of physical activity with the use of an activity monitor between patients who followed an enhanced recovery- or outpatient surgery pathway after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). It was hypothesized that both pathways will have comparable physical activity after TKA at 6-week follow-up.

METHODS

This prospective observational comparative case study was designed to investigate activity parameters (e.g. physical activity, number of steps, sit-stand transfers) of two different pathways after 6 weeks with the use of a non-invasive triaxial accelerometer activity monitor. This study included 20 patients with a mean age of 65.5 years (SD 6.1) undergoing TKA who were allocated to follow one of the two pathways: enhanced recovery (n = 10) or outpatient surgery (n = 10). Patients were monitored for 4 days pre-, 4 days during and 4 days after 5 weeks postoperatively. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) and range of knee motion were obtained pre- and 6 weeks postoperatively.

RESULTS

The activity parameters recovered steeply during the first 4 postoperative days and continued to improve within both pathways (n.s.). Preoperative and during the first 4 days and 5 weeks postoperative, activity parameters were comparable (n.s.) between both pathways but did not reach preoperative levels of physical activity and range of motion (n.s.). PROMs improved within each pathway, and no difference between both pathways was observed (n.s.).

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates that the early physical activity parameters of patients after TKA, following the outpatient surgery pathway, were similar to patients who followed the standard enhanced recovery pathway. The activity monitor is an added value for a more detailed and objective analysis of the physical performance in patients after TKA.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III.

Outpatient and Inpatient Unicompartmental Knee Arthroplasty Procedures Have Similar Short-Term Complication Profiles

BACKGROUND

Advances in surgical techniques and anesthesia have made performing unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) in the outpatient setting a possibility. The touted benefits of outpatient surgery include higher patient satisfaction and reduced costs. However, detailed information on the perioperative outcomes of outpatient compared with inpatient UKA in a large, national patient population in the United States has never been reported. The present study compares perioperative complications between outpatient and inpatient UKAs in the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database.

METHODS

Patients who underwent UKA were identified in the 2005-2015 National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database. Outpatient procedures were defined as those with length of hospital stay = 0 days, whereas inpatient procedures were defined as those with length of hospital stay = 1-4 days. Patients' characteristics and comorbidities were compared between the two groups. Propensity score matched comparisons were performed for 30-day perioperative complications and readmissions between the two cohorts.

RESULTS

This study included 568 outpatient and 5312 inpatient UKA cases. After propensity matching to control potential confounding factors, statistical analysis revealed no significant difference in any perioperative complications or any postdischarge complications between the outpatient and inpatient cohorts. Notably, the rate of 30-day readmissions between the two cohorts was not statistically different.

CONCLUSION

Based on the perioperative outcome measures assessed in this study, outpatient UKA can be appropriately considered in carefully selected patients based on the lack of differences in rates of 30-day perioperative complications and readmissions between the outpatient and matched inpatient groups.

Outpatient surgery for unicompartmental knee arthroplasty is effective and safe

PURPOSE

There has been increasing interest in accelerated programs for knee arthroplasty. We examined the efficacy and safety of an outpatient surgery (OS) pathway in patients undergoing unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA).

METHODS

This case-controlled study evaluates patients operated for UKA in an OS pathway (n = 20) compared to rapid recovery (RR), the current standard (n = 20). We investigated whether patients could be discharged on the day of surgery, resulting in comparable or better outcome by means of adverse events (AEs) in terms of pain (numerical rating scale, NRS), incidences of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) and opiate use (<48 h postoperatively), complication and readmission rates (<3 months postoperatively). Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMS) were obtained preoperatively and 3 months postoperatively.

RESULTS

Postoperative pain (NRS > 5) was the most common reason for prolonged hospital stay in the OS pathway. Eighty-five per cent of the patients were discharged on the day of surgery, whereas 95 % of the patients were discharged on postoperative day 3 in the RR pathway. Overall, median pain scores in both pathways did not exceed a NRS score of 5, without significant differences (RR vs. OS) in the number of patients with PONV (4 vs. 2) and opiate use (11 vs. 9) <48 h postoperatively. At 3 months postoperatively, no significant differences were found for AEs and PROMS between both pathways.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study illustrates that an OS pathway for UKA is effective and safe with acceptable clinical outcome. Well-established and adequate standardized protocols, inclusion and exclusion criteria and a change in mindset for both the patient and the multidisciplinary team are the key factors for the implementation of an OS pathway.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Case-control study, Level III.

Patient selection criteria for outpatient joint arthroplasty

PURPOSE

General consensus of patient selection criteria for outpatient joint arthroplasty is lacking, which is paramount to prevent prolonged hospital stay, adverse events and/or readmissions. This review highlights patient selection criteria for OJA based on the current literature and expert opinion.

METHODS

A search of the English and International electronic healthcare databases including MEDLINE/PubMed, EMBASE, AMED and the Cochrane library was performed in November 2015 to include studies published during the last 10 years. Furthermore, a survey of physicians from different specialties was performed.

RESULTS

Fourteen studies described results regarding outpatient joint arthroplasty. Studies on outpatient hip and/or knee arthroplasty resulted in similar outcome in preselected patients. Patients who are able and willing to participate, with a low ASA classification (<III), undergoing primary arthroplasty, age <75 and with support at home during the first postoperative days are eligible candidates for outpatient joint arthroplasty. Patients with a high ASA classification (>II), bleeding disorders, poorly controlled and/or severe cardiac (e.g. heart failure, arrhythmia) or pulmonary (e.g. embolism, respiratory failure) comorbidities, uncontrolled DM (type I or II), a high BMI (>30 m²/kg), chronic opioid consumption, functional neurological impairments, dependent functional status, chronic/end-stage renal disease and/or reduced preoperative cognitive capacity should be excluded from outpatient joint arthroplasty. The expert opinion-based selection criteria were comparable to literature with a further extension of exclusion for patients with practical issue's, urologic medical history and/or severe mobility disorders.

CONCLUSION

Based on the current literature, the presented patient selection criteria provide a basis for outpatient joint arthroplasty and can be useful when selecting patients. Together with a change in mindset, a multidisciplinary approach and literature-based protocols, outpatient joint arthroplasty can be applied in daily orthopaedic practice while ensuring patients' safety.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Clinical review, Level III.