OUTPATIENT TOTAL JOINT REPLACEMENT
Traditionally, joint replacement has been an inpatient surgical procedure. With the introduction of minimally invasive techniques, modern pain protocols, improved joint replacement procedures on an outpatient basis. This may include partial knee replacements, total knee replacements, and total hip replacements. Outpatient joint replacement is exactly the same as traditional joint replacement, but the patient is allowed to go home the same day as the surgery. This allows patients to recover at home instead of overnight in a hospital. Patients can often return to normal activities quicker and with less pain than with traditional joint replacement surgery.
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ADVANTAGES OF OUTPATIENT JOINT REPLACEMENT
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The benefits of outpatient joint replacement over inpatient traditional joint replacement include the following:
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Decreased hospital stay
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Improved pain management protocols
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Early mobilization
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Fewer complications
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Decreased risk of infection
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Improved outcomes
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Increased patient satisfaction
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Increased patient comfort
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Decreased overall cost
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CANDIDATES FOR OUTPATIENT TOTAL JOINT REPLACEMENT
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Not everyone requires or qualifies for outpatient joint replacement. To be consider for an outpatient joint replacement, a person should have:
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Good health
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High level of motivation
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Good family and friend support
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Careful home monitoring
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