Our Summary

This research paper compares hip replacement surgeries performed in two different settings - a hospital and an outpatient surgery center. It found that patients who had their surgery at the outpatient center spent less time in recovery and had less pain three months after the operation compared to those who had their surgery in a hospital. However, the time it took to perform the surgery, the amount of blood lost during the surgery, and the complications experienced were the same across both settings. The costs were notably different, with the outpatient surgery center being significantly cheaper.

FAQs

  1. What is the difference in complication rates between hip replacements performed in an ambulatory surgery center versus a hospital?
  2. How do the costs of hip replacements differ between hospital settings and ambulatory surgery centers?
  3. Are there differences in postoperative pain levels and recovery time between hip replacements done in a hospital versus an ambulatory surgery center?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about hip replacement is to consider having the surgery done at an ambulatory surgery center, as studies have shown that patients may have shorter postoperative stays and lower costs compared to having the procedure done in a hospital setting. This can lead to faster recovery and potentially better outcomes.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for hip replacement surgery include those who have severe hip pain and stiffness that limits their daily activities, have not experienced relief from other non-surgical treatments, have arthritis or other degenerative conditions that have caused damage to the hip joint, and have a hip fracture or injury that has not healed properly. Additionally, patients who are generally healthy and able to tolerate surgery and rehabilitation are good candidates for hip replacement.

Timeline

Before hip replacement surgery:

  • Patient experiences chronic hip pain and limited mobility
  • Patient undergoes consultation with orthopedic surgeon and diagnostic tests
  • Patient receives preoperative instructions and prepares for surgery
  • Patient may undergo physical therapy to strengthen muscles and improve range of motion

After hip replacement surgery:

  • Patient is monitored in recovery room and transferred to hospital room
  • Patient begins physical therapy and rehabilitation to regain strength and mobility
  • Patient may experience pain and discomfort in the days following surgery
  • Patient is discharged from hospital and continues rehabilitation at home or in a rehabilitation facility
  • Patient gradually resumes normal activities and experiences improved mobility and decreased pain

Overall, patients can expect to experience a significant improvement in quality of life and mobility following hip replacement surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with hip replacement surgery?

  2. How long can I expect to stay in the hospital after the surgery?

  3. What is the expected recovery timeline for hip replacement surgery?

  4. Will I need physical therapy after the surgery, and if so, for how long?

  5. What restrictions or limitations will I have after the surgery in terms of activities and movements?

  6. How long will the hip replacement implant last, and are there any risks of it failing or needing to be replaced in the future?

  7. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery, and what are the potential side effects or risks associated with it?

  8. How many hip replacement surgeries have you performed, and what is your success rate with this procedure?

  9. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that could be considered instead of hip replacement surgery?

  10. What costs should I expect for the surgery, including any potential additional expenses such as rehabilitation or follow-up appointments?

Reference

Authors: Wodowski AJ, Throckmorton TW, Mihalko WM, Toy PC. Journal: Orthop Clin North Am. 2021 Jul;52(3):209-214. doi: 10.1016/j.ocl.2021.03.011. PMID: 34053566