Description
In this insightful presentation, Dr. Henry Clarke discusses the implementation of outpatient joint replacement programs within a traditional tertiary care hospital context. He emphasizes the evolution of these procedures, grounded in over ten years of rapid recovery programs. Dr. Clarke illustrates the trend toward reduced hospital stays, highlighting that recent data shows about 50% of patients undergoing knee and hip replacements are now discharged within one night or less.
He explores the motivations behind the shift towards outpatient care, driven by advancements in surgical techniques and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which accelerated the adoption of such practices. The presentation references important factors contributing to successful outpatient joint replacement programs, including pre-operative medical optimization, patient and family education, multi-modal pain management, and effective physical therapy regimens.
Utilizing compelling statistics, Dr. Clarke shows a marked increase in the percentage of outpatient procedures from 3% in 2012 to an estimated 25-30% by 2020-2021, alongside data supporting the safety and efficacy of these surgeries. He discusses the significance of patient selection using validated scoring tools like the AORA Score, which aids in determining patient suitability for outpatient surgery, citing early challenges related to patient expectations and apprehension.
Crucial elements of transitioning to an outpatient model are emphasized, such as the establishment of supportive infrastructure, developing clear patient protocols, and creating multidisciplinary teams to ensure cohesive care delivery. Dr. Clarke concludes by reinforcing that outpatient total joint replacement is a sustainable and patient-friendly option that significantly enhances patient satisfaction when effectively managed.