One of the reasons people needing total hip or knee replacement shy away from the procedure is fear of an extended hospital stay afterwards for their recovery—often costing a large sum in extra medical fees and keeping them apart from loved ones.
For many patients, outpatient joint replacement surgery at Texas Orthopedics, may be an option at our surgery center.
And new research shows that returning home to recover may be just what the doctor ordered, even if you live on your own.
In the past, doctors have been reluctant to send a patient home alone following joint replacement, due to concerns over post-surgical complications. However, results of this research shared by the AAOS (American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons) show that most people are happier to recover at home, leading to an improved mental state and better physical healing.
Additionally, the presence of mobile devices at everyone’s fingertips these days means that help is just a call, text, or post away, if needed.
Of the nearly 800 patients surveyed after joint replacement, most of whom were 75-plus years old, there was no increase in complications, unplanned office visits, or pain reported in those discharged to recover at home, even in those living by themselves.
And the cost savings can’t be beat. The estimated savings of a patient being allowed to recover at home was approximately $10,776, according to researchers from the Rothman Institutewho authored this particular study—“Even If You Live Alone, There is No Place Like Home After Total Joint Arthroplasty.”
If you would like to discuss your options for total joint replacement, please contact us to schedule an appointment.
(Courtesy of AAOS)
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