Knowing that you might have to spend a number of days in the hospital might be a deciding factor in putting off a much-needed joint replacement procedure. But imagine being able to have joint replacement surgery as an outpatient, meaning that you undergo the procedure in the morning and are released later the same day to recuperate at home, in your own bed? If you require a joint replacement but the idea of hospital time is off-putting, then you may want to ask your orthopedist if you qualify for the procedure as an outpatient. Here are some of the many benefits of having outpatient joint replacement.
Resting Comfortably
In the past, joint replacement surgery required a stay in the hospital followed by extensive time in a rehabilitation center. With outpatient joint replacement, patients undergo the procedure in the morning and are home by the end of the day, resting in their own bed and getting the peace and quiet they need to recover comfortably. There is no need for a hospital gowns, patients can stream what they want on TV, sleep patterns are consistent and, most importantly, they are in an environment that is both comforting and convenient as the first step to recovery.
A less invasive procedure
With its long and deep incisions and clunky implants, the traditional approach to joint replacement has been replaced by a less invasive technique that boasts shorter and fewer incisions and sleek, smooth implant devices that feel as natural as any healthy joint. Because of these modern, less invasive techniques, outpatient joint replacement surgery not only is more efficient and effective, but takes less time to heal. Plus, the smaller incisions are less damaging to your muscles and tendons, and run you less risk of developing scar tissue and complications.
A different anesthetic
Patients who undergo outpatient procedures are administered an anesthetic that keeps the area numb for a few days, vs. a few hours; thereby contributing to faster recovery times and allowing for the patient to start moving hours after the procedure instead of spending days in pain in a hospital bed. This anesthetic also reduces the need for taking pain medicine, whose side effects include grogginess, constipation, dry mouth and, when not used correctly, dependence.
Less Cost to You
The cost of a hospital stay can be prohibitive, but outpatient surgeries are usually a fraction of the cost. This not only keeps your co-pay or deductible low, but increases the likelihood your insurance carrier grant you pre-authorization. For patients who have significant hospital co-pays or are paying for the procedure out of pocket, this could be a savings of thousands of dollars.
Less Risk of Infection
Hospitals are full of germs, and contracting an infection after surgery can be a very real concern. Because outpatient surgery most often is performed at a surgery center, and because your initial rehabilitation will be done at home, the risk of contracting an infection such as staph, reduces intensely.
Faster Healing
There is a misconception that you will heal better and faster with a hospital staff monitoring you every second of the day. In fact, patients actually heal much faster in their own homes and are far more satisfied with the entire process this way. Plus, they are more likely to move about in a familiar setting, vs. being stagnant in a hospital bed.
More Effective Physical Therapy
With outpatient surgery, you can expect to be on your feet before you leave for home, where your recovery will focus around resuming your daily routine. You will practice walking and doing activities that you do every day which help you get back control of your daily routine faster.
If you suffer from joint pain and are interested in learning more about whether your qualify as an outpatient, call Movement Orthopedics today. Their experienced and highly qualified physicians would love to speak with you about treatment options that will help you find relief. Call (586) 436-3785 to make an appointment. You can also request an appointment online.
