Outpatient Joint Replacement

Did you know that, if you’re a candidate for it, it’s possible to receive a total knee replacement and go home the same day? This is called an outpatient total knee replacement procedure. Pat, one of Dr. Nelson’s patients, qualified for this procedure. Here’s a video of her walking only a few hours after her total knee replacement. Today, we’re sharing what to expect with an outpatient total knee replacement and some of the benefits of this procedure.

What to Expect

If you’re considered a candidate for this procedure, you can expect a quick recovery time, less time spent in the hospital, resulting in a lower cost for the procedure, as well as a detailed treatment plan to follow after the procedure to ensure an efficient healing process. Before surgery, Dr. Nelson will recommend that you lower your surgical risks by cutting out behaviors such as smoking and drinking in excess. It’s also recommended that, if possible, excess weight is lost. This will make the healing process go more smoothly.

What Makes a Good Candidate for this Procedure

Here are a few factors that are taken into account when deciding if someone is a candidate or not:

• Mobility: If you’re active and mobile before the procedure, the chances of complications from this surgery greatly decrease. If you use a walker or wheelchair prior to surgery, an inpatient procedure will benefit you the most.
• Motivated: Your motivation is key to deciding if you’re a candidate for outpatient total knee replacement. If you’re motivated to follow your recovery treatment plan, make it to all of your post-surgical checkup appointments, as well as work diligently with a physical therapist, this will make an outpatient total knee replacement a better option for you.
• Healthy: If you don’t suffer from chronic pain or a list of other ailments, you’ll be a better candidate for this surgery. If you do suffer from chronic pain or other health issues, make sure to communicate those clearly to Dr. Nelson. He will be able to determine which type of surgery is the best fit for you depending on this factor.
• Supported: It’s important to have a support system in place after your surgery. If you have family and friends who are willing to help you at home while you recover, this is taken into consideration when determining who is a good candidate for this procedure.

Dr. Nelson is happy to offer this efficient procedure and protocol to his patients and those who are looking for outpatient joint replacement in northern Utah and surrounding areas. Don’t let the stress of a potential longer recovery time and costly procedure stop you from doing something about the pain in your knee. With this outpatient procedure, you’ll be back to your daily activities in no time, with less pain.

To see if you’re a candidate for outpatient total knee replacement, please give us a call at 435-774-8511.