What is Outpatient Total Knee Replacement?
Total knee replacement is the surgical treatment for knee arthritis, where the damaged knee is removed and replaced with an artificial knee implant. Traditionally performed as an inpatient procedure, total knee replacement surgery is now being conducted on an outpatient basis, allowing you to go home on the same day of the surgery.
This is made possible with recent advances such as improved perioperative anesthesia, minimally invasive techniques and initiation of rehabilitation protocols soon after surgery.
Who is a Candidate for Outpatient Total Knee Replacement?
Outpatient total knee replacement is a great option for most patients without major heart or lung disease. Patients will need available friends or family members to help them for at least the first couple days following surgery.
What to Expect after Outpatient Total Knee Replacement
Prior to the procedure, Dr. Harts team will ensure that you receive your prescription medications for after surgery as well as any medical equipment (walker, etc) needed. Following the surgery, you will recover at the Outpatient Center for approximately 2 hours before being discharged to home. You will be discharged with written discharge instructions, and Dr. Hart will call you the day following surgery to check in on you. For the first two weeks following surgery, Dr. Harts team will set up in home physical therapy. At the two week followup visit, Dr. Harts team will arrange the transition to outpatient physical therapy
