Outpatient Total Knee Arthroplasty Is Associated with Higher Risk of Perioperative Complications

Safety Considerations for Outpatient Arthroplasty

Since 2018, the number of total joint arthroplasties (TJAs) performed on an outpatient basis has dramatically increased. Both surgeon and anesthesiologist should be aware of the implications for the safety of outpatient TJAs and potential patient risk factors that could alter this safety profile. Although smaller studies suggest that the risk of negative outcomes is equivalent when comparing outpatient and inpatient arthroplasty, larger database analyses suggest that, even when matched for comorbidities, patients undergoing outpatient arthroplasty may be at increased risk of surgical or medical complications. Appropriate patient selection is critical for the success of any outpatient arthroplasty program. Potential exclusion criteria for outpatient TJA may include age greater than 75 years, bleeding disorder, history of deep vein thrombosis, uncontrolled diabetes mellitus, and hypoalbuminemia, among others. Patient optimization before surgery is also warranted. The potential risks of same-day versus next-day discharge have yet to be elicited in a large-scale manner.

Oral Prednisone Use Following Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty Does Not Increase Infections, But Can be Associated with Higher Risk for Medical and Surgical Complications

INTRODUCTION

Postoperative use of oral prednisone to augment the effect of multimodal pain regimens after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has increased in popularity. However, data on the risks of its utilization, especially as it relates to infection, has been lacking. We tested the null hypothesis that perioperative prednisone use is not associated with the incidence of surgical and medical complications after TKA.

METHODS

Using a national administrative claims database, we identified 949,555 patients undergoing primary TKA. We excluded patients who filled oral prednisone prescriptions within 90 days prior to surgery or between 90 and 364 days after surgery. Patients who had acute prednisone use were defined as those who filled prednisone prescriptions only within 30 days after surgery. Outcomes consisted of surgical and medical complications after TKA. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to evaluate the association between acute prednisone use and complications, adjusting for age, sex, region, insurance plan, and Elixhauser comorbidities.

RESULTS

Patients in the acute prednisone cohort had greater adjusted odds of subsequent manipulation under anesthesia (adjusted OR [odds ratio] = 1.23 [95% CI (confidence interval): 1.09 to 1.38]; P < 0.001) and lysis of adhesions (adjusted OR = 1.58 [95% CI: 1.02 to 2.33]; P = 0.03) compared to patients who did not have acute prednisone use. Patients who had acute prednisone use also had greater adjusted odds of acute kidney injury (adjusted OR = 1.47 [95% CI: 1.25 to 1.71]; P < 0.001) and pneumonia (adjusted OR = 4.04 [95% CI: 3.53 to 4.59]; P < 0.001). There was no increased incidence of infection.

CONCLUSION

Prednisone use shortly following TKA may be associated with a higher incidence of certain surgical and medical complications, but without increased risk for infection. However, given these risks, the optimal patient profile for postoperative prednisone use remains to be defined.

The Effect of the COVID Pandemic on the Rate of Same-Day Discharge in Primary Hip and Knee Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Same-day discharge (SDD) following primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA) started increasing prior to 2020. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the change in the rate of SDD after the pandemic and determine whether those changes became permanent.

METHODS

The annual rate of SDD for 15,208 primary THA and TKA cases performed between January 1, 2015, and September 9, 2022, at a single institution was determined. We also examined changes in SDD patient demographics as well as differences in the 90-day complication rates of SDD and overnight patients.

RESULTS

In 2015, the rate of SDD for primary arthroplasty was 24%, which grew annually to 29% in 2019. Postpandemic, the rate of SDD jumped above 50% and continued up to 64% by 2022. The biggest increase was in TKA, which went from under 10% SDD prepandemic to 50% by 2022. The average age and body mass index of SDD cases prepandemic increased significantly to 62 ± 9 years and 29.4 ± 5.3 (P < .01). Overnight patients had higher rates of 90-day postoperative complications (8.4 versus 4.2%, P < .00001).

CONCLUSIONS

The pandemic caused major changes in the rate of SDD for primary THA and TKA, increasing in subsequent years. The SDD patients became older and heavier due to the expanded criteria for SDD cases. The 90-day postoperative complication rate was lower for SDD patients since higher risk patients were kept overnight. At the prepandemic rate, 29% of patients currently being sent home would have stayed overnight.

Assessing social disparities in inpatient vs. outpatient arthroplasty: a in-state database analysis

INTRODUCTION

Given the growing emphasis on patient outcomes, including postoperative complications, in total joint arthroplasty (TJA), investigating the rise of outpatient arthroplasty is warranted. Concerns exist over the safety of discharging patients home on the same day due to increased readmission and complication rates. However, psychological benefits and lower costs provide an incentive for outpatient arthroplasty. The influence of social determinants of health disparities on outpatient arthroplasty remains unexplored. One metric that assesses social disparities, including the following individual components: socioeconomic status, household composition, minority status, and housing and transportation, is the Social Vulnerability Index (SVI). As such, we aimed to compare: (1) mean overall SVI and mean SVI for each component and (2) risk factors for total complications between patients undergoing inpatient and outpatient arthroplasty.

METHODS

Patients who underwent TJA between January 1, 2022 and December 31, 2022 were identified. Data were drawn from the Maryland State Inpatient Database (SID). A total of 7817 patients had TJA within this time period. Patients were divided into inpatient arthroplasty (n = 1429) and outpatient arthroplasty (n = 6338). The mean SVI was compared between inpatient and outpatient procedures for each themed score. The SVI identifies communities that may need support cause by external stresses on human health based on four themed scores: socioeconomic status; household composition and disability; minority status and language; and housing and transportation. The SVI uses the United States Census data to rank census tracts for each individual theme, as well as an overall social vulnerability score. The higher the SVI, the more social vulnerability, or resources needed to thrive in that area. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify independent risk factors for total complications following TJA after controlling for risk factors and patient comorbidities. Total complications included: infection, aseptic loosening, dislocation, arthrofibrosis, mechanical complication, pain, and periprosthetic fracture.

RESULTS

Patients who had inpatient arthroplasty had higher overall SVI scores (0.45 vs. 0.42, P < 0.001). The SVI scores were higher for patients who had inpatient arthroplasty for socioeconomic status (0.36 vs. 0.32, P < 0.001), minority status and language (0.76 vs. 0.74, P < 0.001), and housing and transportation (0.53 vs. 0.50, P < 0.001) compared to outpatient arthroplasty, respectively. There was no difference between inpatient and outpatient arthroplasty for household composition and disability (0.41 vs. 0.41, P = 0.99). When controlling for comorbidities, inpatient arthroplasty [Odds Ratio (OR) 1.91, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) 1.23-2.95, P = 0.004], hypertension (OR 2.11, 95% CI 1.23-3.62, P = 0.007), and housing and transportation (OR 2.00, 95% CI 1.17-3.42, P = 0.012) were independent risk factors for total complications.

CONCLUSION

Inpatient arthroplasty was associated with increased social disparities across several components of deprivation as well as an independent risk factor total complications following TJA. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first to examine the negative repercussions of inpatient arthroplasty through the lens of social disparities and can target specific areas for intervention.

Real-World Evidence of the Impact of a Novel Surgical Irrigant on Surgical Site Infections in Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty Performed at an Ambulatory Surgery Center

Background: Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is one of the most common inpatient and outpatient surgical procedures performed in the United States and is predicted to increase 401% by 2040. Surgical site infections (SSIs) at an incidence rate of approximately 2% are costly post-operative complications in TKA. Intra-operative surgical irrigants are used to decrease contaminating microbial bioburden within the surgical site to prevent SSI. The primary objective of this retrospective study was to evaluate the impact of a novel surgical irrigant called XPERIENCE® Advanced Surgical Irrigation (XP; Next Science, Jacksonville, FL) on SSI incidence in primary TKA performed at an ambulatory surgery center (ASC). Patients and Methods: Primary TKAs were performed at a free-standing ASC. The novel surgical irrigant was used intra-operatively to rinse away debris and micro-organisms from the surgical site. Retrospective data collation included SSI rates, complication rates, and re-admissions due to SSI within 90 days of index surgery. Results: Among the 524 primary TKA surgeries, one peri-prosthetic joint infection (PJI) was diagnosed within 90 days of index surgery and one superficial incisional SSI was diagnosed within 30 days of index surgery. The PJI was attributed to an exogenously acquired upper respiratory tract infection rather than due to the failure of intra-operative regimes. The 0.19% PJI incidence rate indicated significant efficacy of XP in decreasing PJI. An overall complication rate of 7.82% was noted with none of the complications associated with usage of the novel surgical irrigant. Conclusions: XPERIENCE is a promising intra-operative antimicrobial irrigant that can be easily incorporated into a broader infection prevention strategy.

Ambulatory total hip and knee arthroplasty: a literature review and perioperative considerations

PURPOSE

Total joint arthroplasty (TJA), particularly for the hip and knee, is one of the most commonly performed surgical procedures. The advancement/evolution of surgical and anesthesia techniques have allowed TJA to be performed on an ambulatory/same-day discharge basis. In this Continuing Professional Development module, we synthesize the perioperative evidence that may aid the development of successful ambulatory TJA pathways.

SOURCE

We searched MEDLINE, Embase, CENTRAL, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews for ambulatory or fast-track TJA articles. In the absence of direct evidence for the ambulatory setting, we extrapolated the evidence from the in-patient TJA literature.

PRINCIPAL FINDINGS

Patient selection encompassing patient, medical, and social factors is fundamental for successful same-day discharge of patients following TJA. Evidence for the type of intraoperative anesthesia favours neuraxial technique for achieving same day discharge criteria and reduced perioperative complications. Availability of short-acting local anesthetic for neuraxial anesthesia would affect the anesthetic choice. Nonetheless, modern general anesthesia with multimodal analgesia and antithrombotics in a well selected population can be considered. Regional analgesia forms an integral part of the multimodal analgesia regime to reduce opioid consumption and facilitate same-day hospital discharge, reducing hospital readmission. For ambulatory total knee arthroplasty, a combination of adductor canal block with local anesthetic periarticular infiltration provided is a suitable regional analgesic regimen.

CONCLUSION

Anesthesia for TJA has evolved as such that same-day discharge will become the norm for selected patients. It is essential to establish pathways for early discharge to prevent adverse effects and readmission in this population. As more data are generated from an increased volume of ambulatory TJA, more robust evidence will emerge for the ideal anesthetic components to optimize outcomes.

Risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in lower extremity after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in patients over 60 years old

PURPOSE

There is a significant risk of DVT after TKA. We aim to evaluate the potential risk factors for postoperative DVT in the lower extremities in TKA patients over 60 years of age and provide a reference for the effective prevention of DVT.

METHODS

This retrospective study included patients older than 60 who underwent TKA surgery in our hospital from May 2015 to May 2022 and compared and analyzed patients' personal characteristics and clinical data with or without postoperative DVT. Logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the potential risk factors for DVT after TKA. The sensitivity and specificity of each risk factor in the diagnosis of DVT were compared by the ROC curve, and the value of this model in the diagnosis of DVT was further investigated using a multivariable combined diagnosis ROC curve model.

RESULTS

A total of 661 patients over 60 who underwent TKA were included. Preoperative Hematocrit (HCT), platelet count, anesthesia mode, postoperative D-dimer, ESR, diabetes mellitus, and other aspects of the DVT group and non-DVT group were statistically significant after TKA (P < 0.05). Multivariate logistics regression analysis showed that preoperative HCT, anesthesia mode, and diabetes were independent risk factors for DVT in patients over 60 years old after TKA. Compared with the univariate ROC model, the multivariable combined ROC curve analysis model has a higher diagnostic value for the diagnosis of DVT.

CONCLUSION

DVT is common in patients over 60 years of age after TKA, and there is a multivariable influence on its pathogenesis. For patients over 60 with diabetes, neuraxial anesthesia is recommended for patients with high preoperative HCT levels, which may reduce the incidence of postoperative DVT.

Outpatient Total Knee Arthroplasty From a Stand-Alone Surgery Center: Safe as the Hospital?

BACKGROUND

Literature suggests that outpatient arthroplasty may result in low rates of complications and readmissions. There is, however, a dearth of information on the relative safety of total knee arthroplasty (TKA) performed at stand-alone ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) versus hospital outpatient (HOP) settings. We aimed to compare safety profiles and 90-day adverse events of these 2 cohorts.

METHODS

Prospectively collected data were reviewed on all patients who underwent outpatient TKA from 2015 to 2022. The ASC and HOP groups were compared, and differences in demographics, complications, reoperations, revisions, readmissions, and emergency department (ED) visits within 90 days of surgery were analyzed. There were 4 surgeons who performed 4,307 TKAs during the study period, including 740 outpatient cases (ASC = 157; HOP = 583). The ASC patients were younger than HOP patients (ASC = 61 versus HOP = 65; P < .001). Body mass index and sex did not differ significantly between groups.

RESULTS

Within 90 days, 44 (6%) complications occurred. No differences were observed between groups in rates of 90-day complications (ASC = 9 of 157, 5.7% versus HOP = 35 of 583, 6.0%; P = .899), reoperations (ASC = 2 of 157, 1.3% versus HOP = 3 of 583, 0.5%; P = .303), revisions (ASC = 0 of 157 versus HOP = 3 of 583, 0.5%; P = 1), readmissions (ASC = 3 of 157, 1.9% versus HOP = 8 of 583, 1.4%; P = .625), and ED visits (ASC = 1 of 157, 0.6% versus HOP = 3 of 583, 0.5%; P = .853).

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that in appropriately selected patients, outpatient TKA can be safely performed in both ASC and HOP settings with similar low rates of 90-day complications, reoperations, revisions, readmissions, and ED visits.

No difference in short-term readmissions following day-case vs. one overnight stay in patients having hip and knee arthroplasty: a nationwide register study of 51,042 procedures from 2010-2020

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Day-case hip and knee arthroplasty has gained in popularity, but there are conflicting results regarding readmissions. We aimed to investigate differences in 30- and 90-day readmission rates between day-case patients and patients with a single overnight stay following primary total hip arthroplasty (THA), total knee arthroplasty (TKA), and unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We identified day-case (DC) and overnight (ON) THA, TKA, and UKA patients, operated on between 2010 and 2020, from the Danish National Patient Register. Day-case surgery was defined as discharge on the day of surgery. Overnight readmissions within 30 or 90 days of surgery were considered readmissions. We compared readmission rates between DC and ON patients within arthroplasty types using logistic regression adjusted for patient characteristics and year of surgery. We included 29,486 THAs (1,353 DC and 28,133 ON), 15,116 TKAs (617 DC and 14,499 ON), and 6,440 UKAs (1,528 DC and 4,914 ON).

RESULTS

The 30-day readmission rates were: DC-THA 4.4% vs. ON-THA 4.4% (adjusted odds-ratio [aOR] 1.2, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.91-1.6), DC-TKA 4.7% vs. ON-TKA 4.4% (aOR 1.1, CI 0.69-1.5), and DC-UKA 3.0% vs. ON-UKA 3.0% (aOR 1.1, CI 0.78-1.5). Similarly, no significant differences were present between DC and ON THA, TKA, and UKA regarding 90-day readmissions or time to readmission.

CONCLUSION

We found no differences in readmission rates between day-case THA, TKA, and UKA patients and patients with a single overnight stay.

Outpatient Total Joint Arthroplasty: Are We Closing the Racial Disparities Gap?

INTRODUCTION

As ne arly half of all total joint arthroplasty (TJA) procedures are projected to be performed in the outpatient setting by 2026, the impact of this trend on health disparities remains to be explored. This study investigated the racial/ethnic differences in the proportion of TJA performed as outpatient as well as the impact of outpatient surgery on 30-day complication and readmission rates.

METHODS

The ACS National Surgical Quality Improvement Program was retrospectively reviewed for all patients who underwent primary, elective total hip and knee arthroplasty (THA, TKA) between 2011 and 2018. The proportion of TJA performed as an outpatient, 30-day complications, and 30-day readmission among African American, Hispanic, Asian, Native American/Alaskan, and Hawaiian/Pacific Islander patients were each compared to White patients (control group). Analyses were performed for each racial/ethnic group separately. A general linear model (GLM) was used to calculate the odds ratios for receiving TJA in an outpatient vs. inpatient setting while adjusting for age, gender, body mass index (BMI), functional status, and comorbidities.

RESULTS

In total, 170,722 THAs and 285,920 TKAs were analyzed. Compared to White patients, non-White patients had higher likelihood of THA or TKA performed as an outpatient (OR 1.31 and 1.24 respectively for African American patients, OR 1.65 and 1.76 respectively for Hispanic patients, and OR 1.66 and 1.59 respectively for Asian patients, p < 0.001). Outpatient surgery did not lead to increased complications in any of the study groups compared to inpatient surgery (p > 0.05). However, readmission rates were significantly higher for outpatient TKA in all the study groups compared to inpatient TKA (OR range 2.47-10.15, p < 0.001). Complication and readmission rates were similar between inpatient and outpatient THA for all the study groups.

CONCLUSION

While this study demonstrated higher proportion of TJA performed as an outpatient among most non-White racial/ethnic groups, this observation should be tempered with the increased readmission rates observed in outpatient TKA, which could further the disparities gap in health outcomes.

Inpatient vs outpatient arthroplasty: A in-state database analysis of 90-day complications

Introduction

An increase in the number of policy initiatives, such as alternative payment models, have prompted healthcare providers to examine health-care expenditures while seeking to improve quality of care. Performing total joint arthroplasty (TJA) in the outpatient setting is an attractive option in driving costs down and providing psychological benefits to patients. Concerns regarding the safety and effectiveness of same-day discharge protocols warrants further investigation, especially on the state level. Due to the lack of consensus, we aimed to compare: (1) risk factors for outpatient arthroplasty and (2) incidences of postoperative complications between inpatient vs outpatient arthroplasty using an in-state database.

Methods

Patients who underwent total knee or hip arthroplasty between January 1, 2022 and December 31, 2022 were identified. Data was drawn from the Maryland State Inpatient Database (SID) and Maryland State Ambulatory Surgery and Services Database (SASD). A total of 7817 patients had TJA within this time. Patients were divided into inpatient arthroplasty (n = 1429) and outpatient arthroplasty (n = 6338). Demographic variables, medical comorbidities, and 90-day complication rates were compared between inpatient and outpatient procedures. Additional independent variables included: marital status, primary language, race, and median household income. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify independent risk factors for complications following TJA after controlling for risk factors and patient comorbidities.

Results

Arthroplasty in the outpatient setting were more likely to be married (61.3% vs. 51.2%, p < 0.001), white (75.5% vs. 60.9%, <0.001), speak English as primary language (98.7% vs. 88.6%, p < 0.001), and have lower rates of diabetes (4.8% vs. 9.7%, p < 0.001), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (16.3% vs. 21.8%, p < 0.001), and obesity (30.0% vs. 45.2%, p < 0.001) compared to arthroplasty in the inpatient setting, respectively. There were lower incidences of acute kidney injury (0.2 vs. 0.8%, p < 0.001) and infection (0.3% vs. 1.1%, p < 0.001) in the outpatient cohort compared to the inpatient cohort, respectively. Inpatient arthroplasty (Odds Ratio (OR) 1.98, 95% CI 1.30-3.02, p = 0.002) and hypertension (OR 2.12, 95% CI 1.23-3.64, p = 0.007) were independent risk factors for total complications following TJA.

Conclusion

Arthroplasty in the outpatient setting showed fewer complications than compared to patients in the inpatient setting. Although multiple factors should guide the decision for arthroplasty, outpatient arthroplasty may be a safe option for select, healthier patients without the increased burden of increased complications.

Enhanced recovery after day surgery total knee arthroplasty, the new standard of care: An Asian perspective

BACKGROUND

This study describes the implementation of Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) total knee arthroplasty (TKA) with day-surgery protocol to assess the outcome of ERAS day surgery TKA compared with traditional ERAS inpatient TKA in terms of length of stay (LOS), 30-day readmission, complications, and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs).

METHODS

Patients who underwent unilateral primary TKA from August 2020 to July 2021 were followed up. All TKAs were performed with the ERAS protocol. Patients who fulfilled the following inclusion criteria were offered day-surgery protocol: (1) ASA ≤ 3; (2) agreeable for discharge home. In addition, this day-surgery protocol comprised the following: (i) on-call physiotherapy review; (ii) home visit by physiotherapist at 1 week postoperative; (iii) home visit by nurse at 2 weeks postoperative. Day surgery was defined as discharge within 24 h. Patients were followed up for 6 months and PROMs, postoperative complications, and re-admissions recorded.

RESULTS

A total of 738 patients were included (342 ERAS day surgery, 396 ERAS inpatient). 92.4% of patients in the day-surgery group were successfully discharged within 24 h, leading to a shorter mean LOS of 1.13 days compared with 4.12 days in the inpatient group (P < 0.005). Both groups achieved significant and comparable improvement in Knee Society Score, Oxford Knee Score, and Physical and Mental component of Short Form-36. Both groups had similar rate of 30-day readmission and complications.

CONCLUSION

Patients who underwent ERAS day surgery TKA achieved similar functional and quality of life improvement compared with ERAS inpatient TKA with no increased complication rate. ERAS day surgery TKA is safe and cost effective, and its use should be promoted.

Outpatient Total Knee Arthroplasty Shows Decreasing Complication Burden From 2010 to 2020

BACKGROUND

The number of total knee arthroplasties (TKAs) performed on an outpatient basis continues to increase. The purpose of this study was to compare complication rates over the last decade to evaluate trends in the safety of outpatient TKA.

METHODS

Patients who underwent TKA from 2010 to 2020 from a large administrative claims database were retrospectively identified and stratified based on the year of surgery. Propensity-score matching was performed to match patients who were discharged within 24 hours of surgery to inpatients based on age, sex, comorbidity index, and year of surgery. Linear regression analyses were used to compare trends from 2010 to 2020. The 90-day adverse events in the early cohort (2010-2012) were compared to those in the late cohort (2018-2020) using multivariable regression analyses. Of the 547,137 patients in the sample, 28,951 outpatients (5.3%) were propensity matched to inpatients.

RESULTS

The incidence of outpatient TKA increased from 2010 to 2018 (1.9 versus 13.8%, P < .001). Despite a similar complication rate early (24.1 versus 22.6%, P = .164), outpatient TKA had fewer complications at the end of the study period (13.7 versus 16.7%, P < .001). Multivariate analyses demonstrated that the risk of any complication after outpatient TKA was lower than inpatient from 2018 to 2020 (odds ratio, 0.78; 95% confidence interval, 0.71-0.84).

CONCLUSIONS

Complications in both cohorts declined dramatically suggesting improvements in quality of care over time, with the greatest decline in patients undergoing outpatient surgery. These results suggest that outpatient TKA today is not higher risk for the patient than inpatient TKA.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

Low readmission and reattendance rate in day-case total knee arthroplasties

Aims

The rate of day-case total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in the UK is currently approximately 0.5%. Reducing length of stay allows orthopaedic providers to improve efficiency, increase operative throughput, and tackle the rising demand for joint arthroplasty surgery and the COVID-19-related backlog. Here, we report safe delivery of day-case TKA in an NHS trust via inpatient wards with no additional resources.

Methods

Day-case TKAs, defined as patients discharged on the same calendar day as surgery, were retrospectively reviewed with a minimum follow-up of six months. Analysis of hospital and primary care records was performed to determine readmission and reattendance rates. Telephone interviews were conducted to determine patient satisfaction.

Results

Since 2016, 301/7350 TKAs (4.1%) in 290 patients at our institution were discharged on the day of surgery. Mean follow-up was 31.4 months (6.2 to 70.0). In all, 28 patients (9.3%) attended the emergency department or other acute care settings within 90 days of surgery, most often with wound concerns or leg swelling; six patients (2.0%) were readmitted. No patients underwent a subsequent revision procedure, and there were no periprosthetic infections. Two patients (0.7%) underwent secondary patella resurfacing, and one patient underwent arthroscopic arthrolysis after previous manipulation under anaesthetic (MUA). Three patients (1.0%) underwent MUA alone. Primary care consultation records, available for 206 patients, showed 16 patients (7.8%) contacted their general practitioner within two weeks postoperatively; two (1.0%) were referred to secondary care. Overall, 115/121 patients (95%) telephoned stated they would have day-case TKA again.

Conclusion

Day-case TKA can be safely delivered in the NHS with no additional resources. We found low incidence of contact with primary and secondary care in the postoperative period, and high patient satisfaction.

An Increase in Same-day Discharge After Total Joint Arthroplasty During the COVID-19 Pandemic Does Not Influence Patient Outcomes: A Retrospective Cohort Analysis

Background

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused major transitions in total joint arthroplasty (TJA), notably with the increased utilization of same-day discharge (SDD) pathways. This study assessed the effect of accelerated discharge pathways following the resumption of elective cases during the COVID-19 pandemic on SDD rates, adverse events, and characteristics associated with successful SDD following total hip and total knee arthroplasty.

Methods

This retrospective study split patients into cohorts: TJA prior to COVID-19 (pre-COVID, July 2019-December 2019) and TJA following the resumption of elective surgeries (post-COVID, July 2020-December 2020). Patient characteristics such as age, sex, body mass index, American Society of Anesthesiologists score, and pertinent comorbidities were analyzed, and length of stay, 30-day emergency department (ED) visit rates, readmissions, and reoperations were compared.

Results

A total of 1333 patients met inclusion criteria that were divided into pre-COVID (692) and post-COVID (641) cohorts. The pre-COVID group had a median age of 69 years (interquartile range 63-76), and the post-COVID group had a median age of 68 years (interquartile range 61-75) (P = .024). SDD increased from 0.1% to 28.9% (P < .001), and length of stay decreased from 1.3 days to 0.89 days (P < .001). There was no change in 30-day ED visits, readmissions, or reoperations (P = .817, P = .470, and P = .643, respectively). There was no difference in ED visits, readmissions, or reoperations in SDD patients. The odds of SDD were associated with age (P < .001, odds ratio [OR] = 0.94), body mass index (P = .006, OR = 0.95), male sex (P < .001, OR = 1.83), and history of tobacco use (P < .001, OR = 1.87).

Conclusions

At our institution, the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the utilization of SDD pathways without increasing ED visits, readmissions, or reoperations.

Are Patients Being Appropriately Selected for Same-Day Discharge Total Knee Arthroplasty?

BACKGROUND

Decreased cost associated with same-day discharge (SDD) total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has led to an increased interest in this topic. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether there is a population of TKA patients in which SDD has similar rates of 30-day complications compared to patients discharged on postoperative day 1 or 2.

METHODS

Using the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database from 2012 to 2018, 6,327 TKA patients who had a SDD (length of stay [LOS] = 0) were matched to TKA patients who had an LOS of 1 or 2 days. All SDD patients were successfully matched 1:1 using the morbidity probability variable (a composite variable of demographics, comorbidities, and laboratory values). Patients were divided into quartiles based on their morbidity probability. Bivariate logistic regressions were then used to compare any complication and major complication rates in the SDD quartiles to the corresponding quartiles with an LOS of 1 or 2 days.

RESULTS

When comparing the 1st quartiles (healthiest), there was no difference between the cohorts in any complication (odds ratio [OR] = 0.960, 95% CI 0.552-1.670, P = .866) and major complications (OR = 0.999, 95% CI = 0.448-2.231, P = .999). The same was observed in quartile 2 (any complications: OR = 1.161, 95% CI = 0.720-1.874, P = .540). Comparing the third quartiles, there was an increase in all complications with SDD (OR = 1.784, 95% CI = 1.125-2.829, P = .014), but no difference in major complications (OR = 1.635, 95% CI = 0.874-3.061, P = .124). Comparing the fourth quartiles (least healthy), there was an increase in all complications (OR = 1.384, 95% CI = 1.013-1.892, P = .042) and major complications (OR = 1.711, 95% CI = 1.048-2.793, P = .032) with SDD.

CONCLUSION

The unhealthiest 50% of patients in this study who underwent SDD TKA were at an increased risk of having any complication, calling into question the current state of patient selection for SDD TKA.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III.

Hospital Revenue, Cost, and Contribution Margin in Inpatient Versus Outpatient Primary Total Joint Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Removal of primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) from the inpatient-only list has financial implications for both patients and institutions. The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare financial parameters between patients designated for inpatient versus outpatient total joint arthroplasty.

METHODS

We reviewed all patients who underwent TKA or THA after these procedures were removed from the inpatient-only list. Patients were statistical significance into cohorts based on inpatient or outpatient status, procedure type, and insurance type. This included 5,284 patients, of which 4,279 were designated inpatient while 1,005 were designated outpatient. Patient demographic, perioperative, and financial data including per patient revenues, total and direct costs, and contribution margins (CMs) were collected. Data were compared using t-tests and Chi-squared tests.

RESULTS

Among Medicare patients receiving THA, CM was 89.1% lower for the inpatient cohort when compared to outpatient (P < .001), although there was no statistical significance difference between cohorts for TKA (P = .501). Among patients covered by Medicaid or Government-managed plans, CM was 120.8% higher for inpatients receiving THA (P < .001) when compared to outpatients and 136.3% higher for inpatients receiving TKA (P < .001).

CONCLUSION

Our analyses showed that recent costs associated with inpatient stay inconsistently match or outpace additional revenue, causing CM to vary drastically depending on insurance and procedure type. For Medicare patients receiving THA, inpatient surgery is financially disincentivized leaving this vulnerable patient population at a risk of losing access to care.

LEVEL III EVIDENCE

Retrospective Cohort Study.

Identifying Risk Factors for Complication and Readmission with Same-Day Discharge Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

The COVID-19 pandemic caused a surge of same-day discharge (SDD) for total joint arthroplasty. However, SDD may not be beneficial for all patients. Therefore, continued investigation into the safety of SDD is necessary as well as risk stratification for improved patient outcomes.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study examined 31,851 elective SDD hip and knee arthroplasties from 2016 to 2020 in a large national database. Logistic regression models were used to identify patient variables and preoperative comorbidities that contribute to postoperative complication or readmission with SDD. Adjusted odds ratios (AOR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated.

RESULTS

SDD increased from 1.4% in 2016 to 14.6% in 2020. SDD is associated with lower odds of readmission (AOR: 0.994, CI: 0.992-0.996) and postoperative complications (AOR: 0.998, CI: 0.997-1.000). Patients who have preoperative dyspnea (AOR: 1.03, CI: 1.02-1.04, P < .001), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AOR: 1.02, CI: 1.01-1.03, P = .002), and hypoalbuminemia (AOR: 1.02, CI: 1.00-1.03, P < .001), had higher odds of postoperative complications. Patients who had preoperative dyspnea (AOR: 1.02, CI: 1.01-1.03), hypertension (AOR: 1.01, CI: 1.01-1.03, P = .003), chronic corticosteroid use (AOR: 1.02, CI: 1.01-1.03, P < .001), bleeding disorder (AOR: 1.02; CI: 1.01-1.03, P < .001), and hypoalbuminemia (AOR: 1.01, CI: 1.00-1.02, P = .038), had higher odds of readmission.

CONCLUSION

SDD is safe with certain comorbidities. Preoperative screening for cardiopulmonary comorbidities (eg, dyspnea, hypertension, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), chronic corticosteroid use, bleeding disorder, and hypoalbuminemia may improve SDD outcomes.

Over Half of All Medicare Total Knee Arthroplasty Patients Are Now Classified as an Outpatient-Three-Year Impact of the Removal From the Inpatient-Only List

BACKGROUND

In 2018, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services removed total knee arthroplasty (TKA) from its inpatient-only list, triggering many unintended consequences. The purpose of this study was to determine how the impact of TKA removal affected the number of outpatient TKA patients, which patients were being labeled outpatient, and how outpatient classification affected discharge location and readmission rates.

METHODS

Using a large administrative claims database, we reviewed a consecutive series of 216,365 primary TKA Medicare patients from 2015 to 2020. Patients who had an inpatient status (n = 63,356) were compared to patients who had an outpatient status (n = 38,510) from 2018 to 2020 based on demographics, comorbidities, discharge dispositions, and readmissions.

RESULTS

In 2015, only 1.8% of TKA patients were designated as outpatients, but by 2020, 57.2% of Medicare TKA patients were classified as outpatients. A majority of patients (72%) who had an outpatient designation remained in the hospital for >24 hours (average length of stay was 2.7 days). Patients who had an outpatient status were discharged to skilled nursing facilities more frequently than patients who had an inpatient status (3.1 versus 2.0%, P < .001) with increased emergency visits (5.1 versus 3.9%, P < .001) and 90-day readmissions (2.2 versus 0.9%, P < .001).

CONCLUSION

Over half of all Medicare TKA patients are being classified as outpatients 3 years following the policy to remove TKA from the inpatient-only list. Patients designated as outpatients had higher readmissions than those designated as inpatients. This policy should be re-evaluated in the context of failure to demonstrate safer discharge of Medicare patients who undergo TKA.

The Rise of Total Ankle Arthroplasty Use: A Database Analysis Describing Case Volumes and Incidence Trends in the United States Between 2009 and 2019

BACKGROUND

Ankle arthrodesis has been the mainstay treatment for end-stage ankle arthritis. The popularity of total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) has been on the rise due to improved implant design and postoperative outcomes. The purpose of this study was to describe the basic epidemiology and trends of annual procedure volumes and incidence in the general American population as well as in different population subgroups from 2009 to 2019. We hypothesize that the incidence of TAA has significantly risen while the median length of hospital stay has decreased nationwide.

METHODS

The IBM MarketScan database was queried for patients who underwent TAA from January 2009 to December 2019 based on Current Procedural Terminology coding. Population estimates from the US Census Bureau were used to calculate the annual incidence of TAA. Procedural volume and incidence were calculated for annual sums, gender, age subgroups, inpatient and outpatient TAA, as well as in four statistical geographic regions in the United States. Median length of hospital stay was calculated and trended annually for inpatient TAA.

RESULTS

A total of 41,060 primary TAAs were identified in the database from 2009 to 2019, in which 52.5% were performed in males. Annual volumes increased by 136.1%, from 2180 to 5147 procedures nationwide. Incidence reported per 100 000 population increased by 120.8%. Both inpatient and outpatient procedures have increased, by 242.5% and 86.6%, respectively. Median length of hospital stay decreased from 3 days in 2009 to 1 day in 2019 and did not differ between genders. Growth in incidence was demonstrated in males and females above the age of 54 years with the largest growth in annual incidence found between 65 and 74 years. Incidence rose in the South and West of the United States by 111.8% and 136.5%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

We found that annual volumes and incidence rates of primary TAA has increased between 2009 and 2019. Although both inpatient and outpatient surgery have become more frequent, inpatient volumes and incidence have increased almost 3 times more than those of outpatient surgery. Length of hospital stay decreased over the study years. When adjusted for the same study period, the cumulative annual growth rates of TAA were found to be 2 times greater than total knee arthroplasty and 3.6 times greater than total hip arthroplasty.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, retrospective database review.

Readmissions and mortality after outpatient vs inpatient unicompartmental knee arthroplasty in Denmark - A propensity score matched study of 5,384 procedures

BACKGROUND

Limited nationwide data on the development of outpatient unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) practice and patient safety exist. The primary objective of this study on patients receiving a medial or lateral UKA was to investigate 7-, 30- and 90-day readmission risk and 90-day mortality in outpatient vs inpatient surgeries. Secondary to investigate the nationwide development of outpatient UKA surgery in 2014-2018.

METHODS

Included patients received a medial or lateral UKA in the period January 1, 2014 to December 31, 2018 in any Danish hospital. Data were collected from the Danish National Patient Register. The cohort consisted of 1,059 outpatient and 4,325 inpatient surgeries, hereof 5,182 medial and 202 lateral UKA. After propensity score matching (1:1) 1,057 patients were included in each group.

RESULTS

We found a 7-day readmission risk of 1.5 % vs 1.4 % (p = 0.8), 30-day readmission risk of 2.6 % vs 3.2 % (p = 0.3), and 90-day readmission risk of 4.2 % vs 4.8 % (p = 0.4) after outpatient vs inpatient UKA. Similar results were found after matching. We found no significant differences in 90-day mortality for the unmatched or matched cohorts. The amount of outpatient UKA surgeries in Denmark increased from 86 in 2014 to 214 in 2018.

CONCLUSION

Outpatient medial or lateral UKA seem to be as safe as inpatient UKA on a nationwide basis.

Same-Day Discharge Following Aseptic Revision and Conversion Total Joint Arthroplasty: A Single-Institution Experience

Background

With hospital inpatient capacity increasingly limited and primary total joint arthroplasty (TJA) rapidly transitioning to outpatient settings, the feasibility of outpatient aseptic revision and conversion TJA (rTJA) has been considered. Before the widespread adoption of outpatient rTJA, guidelines must be established to prevent patient harm. To this end, this study describes our initial experience with same-day-discharge (SDD) aseptic rTJA.

Methods

All aseptic rTJAs performed between May 8, 2015, and December 30, 2021, were retrospectively reviewed. Revision indications, patient selection criteria, and outcomes including SDD success rate, predischarge complications, all-cause emergency department visits, inpatient readmissions, and unplanned clinic encounters within 90 days of surgery were recorded.

Results

Thirty-five SDD aseptic rTJAs were performed. Conversion total hip arthroplasty (55.0%) and instability (27.3%) were the most common indications for hip revision. Instability (50%) and conversion total knee arthroplasty (20.8%) were most common for knee revision. SDD was achieved in 97% (34/35) of cases. One hip patient failed SDD due to persistent hypoxia requiring an overnight hospital stay and also underwent closed reduction for dislocation in the emergency department within 90 days of discharge. Two additional patients had unplanned clinic encounters within 90 days of the index procedure. There were no hospital readmissions or reoperations within 90 days.

Conclusions

Our initial experience suggests SDD aseptic rTJA can be safe and effective when modern perioperative outpatient protocols and surgical techniques are implemented. Future studies should further define patient selection criteria to optimize outcomes and minimize complications in this population.

Outpatient total knee and hip arthroplasty present comparable and even better clinical outcomes than inpatient operation

Background

The purpose of this study was to compare total complications, complications stratified by type, readmissions, and reoperations at 30 and 90 days after outpatient and standard inpatient total knee and total hip arthroplasty (TKA, THA).

Methods

A literature search was conducted from the PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Embase databases for articles published before 20 August 2021. The types of studies included prospective randomized controlled trials, prospective cohort studies, retrospective comparative studies, retrospective reviews of THA and TKA registration databases, and observational case-control studies. Comparisons of interest included total complications, complications stratified by type, readmissions, and reoperations at 30 and 90 days. The statistical analysis was performed using Review Manager 5.3.

Results

Twenty studies with 582,790 cases compared relevant postoperative indicators of outpatient and inpatient total joint arthroplasty (TJA) (TKA and THA). There was a significant difference in the total complications at 30 days between outpatient and inpatient THA (p = 0.001), readmissions following TJA (p = 0.03), readmissions following THA (p = 0.001), stroke/cerebrovascular incidents following TJA (p = 0.01), cardiac arrest following TJA (p = 0.007), and blood transfusions following TJA (p = 0.003). The outcomes showed an obvious difference in 90-day total complications between outpatient and inpatient TJA (p = 0.01), readmissions following THA (p = 0.002), and surgical-related pain following TJA (p < 0.001). We did not find significant differences in the remaining parameters.

Conclusion

Outpatient procedures showed comparable and even better outcomes in total complications, complications stratified by type, readmissions, and reoperations at 30 and 90 days compared with inpatient TJA for selected patients.

Same Day Joint Replacement Surgery: Patient Selection and Perioperative Management

Joint replacements are increasingly performed as outpatient surgeries. The push toward ambulatory joint arthroplasty is driven in part by the changing current health care economics and reimbursement models. Patients' selection and well-designed perioperative care pathways are critical for the success of these procedures. The rate of complications after outpatient joint arthroplasty is comparable to the rate of complications in the ambulatory setting. Patient education, adequate social support, multimodal analgesia, regional anesthesia are key ingredients to the ambulatory care pathway after joint arthroplasty. Motor sparing nerve blocks are often used in these settings. Implementation of the elements of fast protocols can result in overall improvement of outcome metrics for all patients undergoing joint arthroplasty, including reduced length of stay and increased rate of home discharge.

Short-Stay Arthroplasty is Not Associated With Increased Risk of 90-Day Hospital Returns

BACKGROUND

With the removal of total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA) from the inpatient-only list, medical centers are faced with challenging transitions to outpatient surgery. We investigated if short-stay arthroplasty, defined as length of stay (LOS) <24 hours, would influence 90-day readmissions and emergency department (ED) visits at a tertiary referral center.

METHODS

The institutional database was retrospectively queried for primary TKAs and THAs from July 2015 to January 2018, resulting in 2,217 patients (1,361 TKA and 856 THA). Patient demographics, including age, gender, body mass index, and American Society of Anesthesiologists score were collected. LOS, disposition, cost of care, 90-day ED visits, and readmissions were identified through the institutional database using electronic medical record data. Univariable and multivariable models were used to evaluate rates of 90-day readmissions and ED visits based on LOS <24 hours vs ≥24 hours.

RESULTS

LOS <24 h was associated with significant decreases in 90-day ED visits (P = .003) and readmissions (P = .002). After controlling for potential confounding variables with a multivariable model, a significant decrease in ED visits (P = .034) remained in the THA cohort alone. Within TKA and THA cohorts, LOS <24 h was associated with lower costs (P < .001). Eighteen percent of patients with ≥24 h LOS were discharged to skilled nursing or rehabilitation facilities.

CONCLUSION

In this cohort, LOS <24 hours was associated with decreased 90-day readmissions, ED visits, and costs. With the goal of minimizing costs and maintaining patient safety while efficiently using resources, outpatient and short-stay arthroplasty are valuable, feasible options in tertiary academic centers.

Safety and efficacy of outpatient hip and knee arthroplasty: a systematic review with meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

This systematic review aimed to assess the safety and efficacy of outpatient joint arthroplasty (OJA) pathways compared to inpatient pathways.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

An electronic literature search was conducted to identify eligible studies. Studies comparing OJA with inpatient pathways-following hip and/or (partial) knee arthroplasty-were included. Included studies were assigned-based on OJA definition-to one of the following two groups: (1) outpatient surgery (OS); outpatient defined as discharge on the same day as surgery; and (2) semi-outpatient surgery (SOS); outpatient defined as discharge within 24 h after surgery with or without an overnight stay. Methodological quality was assessed. Outcomes included (serious) adverse events ((S)AEs), readmissions, successful same-day discharge rates, patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) and costs. Meta-analyses and subgroup analyses by type of arthroplasty were performed when deemed appropriate.

RESULTS

A total of 41 studies (OS = 26, SOS = 15) met the inclusion criteria. One RCT and 40 observational studies were included, with an overall risk-of-bias of moderate to high. Forty studies were included in the meta-analysis. Outpatients (both OS and SOS) were younger and had a lower BMI and ASA class compared to inpatients. Overall, no significant differences between outpatients and inpatients were found for overall complications and readmission rates, and improvement in PROMs. By type of arthroplasty, only THAs in OS pathways were associated with fewer AEs [OR = 0.55 (0.41-0.74)] compared to inpatient pathways. 92% of OS patients were discharged on the day of surgery. OJA resulted in an average cost reduction of $6.797,02.

CONCLUSION

OJA pathways are as safe and effective as inpatient pathways in selected populations, with a potential reduction of costs. Considerable risk of bias in the majority of studies emphasizes the need for further research.

Preoperative High Sleep Quality Predicts Further Decrease in Length of Stay after Total Joint Arthroplasty under Enhanced Recovery Short-stay Program: Experience in 604 Patients from a Single Team

Objective

To investigate the safety, efficiency and cost of total joint arthroplasty (TJA) under the enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) program and identify predictors facilitating further decrease in length of stay (LOS).

Methods

We retrospectively collected the information of patients who underwent primary unilateral TJA by a single surgical team between January 2017 and June 2019. A total of 604 patients with LOS ≤ 3 was enrolled in this study. All patients completed 12‐month or longer follow‐up. Patients received the same ERAS protocol, mainly including preoperative preparation (patient education, preoperative functional exercises, nutritional support), blood management, pain management, sleep management, prevention of infection, prevention of thrombosis and strict discharge criteria. Preoperative characteristics of patients were collected from the medical record system and were compared between the LOS ≤ 2 group and the LOS = 3 group. Factors with significant difference were included in multivariate logistic regression analysis to find independent preoperative predictors for LOS. Joint function at the latest follow‐up, adverse events rate and hospitalization costs were compared between the LOS ≤ 2 group and the LOS = 3 group.

Results

Of the enrolled 604 patients, 271 patients (44.9%) had a LOS of 2 days or less while 333 patients (55.1%) had a LOS of 3 days. Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index score (odds ratio [OR] = 1.084, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.024–1.147, P = 0.005), preoperative albumin level (OR = 0.945, 95% CI = 0.905–0.988, P = 0.012), digestive diseases (OR = 1.084, 95% CI = 1.024–1.147, P = 0.005) and total hip arthroplasty (THA) (OR = 0.273, 95% CI = 0.170–0.439, P < 0.001) were predictors of LOS ≤ 2 in the multivariate logistic analysis model. The postoperative joint function scores and adverse event rates were comparable between the LOS ≤ 2 group and the LOS = 3 group. The hospital costs were lower in the LOS ≤ 2 group than the LOS = 3 group.

Conclusion

Under the rigorous ERAS program, 2‐day discharge in unselected TJA patients can be routinely applied. Patients with high preoperative sleep quality, high preoperative albumin level, free of digestive disease and undergoing THA procedure are more likely to be discharged within 2 days.

The Effect of Early versus Late Manipulation Under Anesthesia on Opioid Use, Surgical Complications, and Revision Following Total Knee Arthroplasty

Previous studies of early versus late manipulation under anesthesia (MUA) do not report on postoperative opioid utilization or revisions and focused on small single-institution retrospective cohorts. The PearlDiver Research Program (www.pearldiverinc.com), which uses an all-inclusive insurance database, was used to identify patients undergoing primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) who received (1) late MUA (>12 weeks), (2) early MUA (≤12 weeks), or (3) TKA only. To develop the control group cohort of TKA-only patients, 3:1 matching was conducted using 11 risk factor variables deemed significant by chi-squared analysis. Complications and opioid utilization were compared through multivariate regression analysis, controlling for age, gender, and Charlson Comorbidity Index. The risk of TKA revision was assessed through Cox-proportional hazards modeling and Kaplan-Meier survival analysis with log-rank test. Between 2011 and 2017, 2,062 TKA patients with early MUA, 1,112 TKA patients with late MUA, and a control cohort of 8,327 TKA-only patients were identified in the database. The percent of patients registering opioid use decreased from 54.6% 1 month pre-MUA to 4.6% (p < 0.0001) 1 month post-MUA following early MUA, whereas only from 32.6 to 10.4% (p < 0.0001) following late MUA. Late MUA was associated with higher risk of repeat MUA at 6 months (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 2.74, p < 0.0001), 1 year (aOR = 2.66, p < 0.0001), and 2 years (aOR = 2.63, p < 0.0001) following index MUA. Hazards modeling and survival analysis showed increased risk of TKA revision following late MUA (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] = 3.50, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.77-4.43, p < 0.0001) compared to early MUA (aHR = 2.15, 95% CI: 1.72-2.70, p < 0.0001), with significant differences in survival to revision curves (p < 0.0001). When compared to early MUA at 1 year, late MUA was associated with a significantly increased risk of prosthesis explantation (aOR = 2.89, p = 0.0026 vs. aOR = 0.93, p = 0.8563). MUA within 12 weeks after index TKA had improved pain resolution and significant curtailing of opioid use. Furthermore, late MUA was associated with prolonged opioid use, increased risks of revision, as well as prosthesis explantation, supporting screening and early intervention in cases of slow progression and stiffness. The level of evidence of this study is III.

Risk Factors for Delayed Discharge and Adverse Outcomes Following Outpatient Billed Total Knee Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

The volume of outpatient total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has increased with advances in perioperative protocols, patient selection, and recent policy changes regarding insurance authorization. This study analyzed 30-day outcomes from a national database to better understand risk factors for delayed discharge (length of stay [LOS] ≥1), readmission, and reoperation after outpatient TKA.

METHODS

The National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database was utilized to collect TKA (CPT 27447) billed as outpatient surgery performed from 2013 to 2018. Patient demographics, comorbidities, and short-term outcomes were collected and compared in LOS 0 versus LOS ≥1 cohorts. Subgroup analysis was completed for TKA performed in 2018, after the Center for Medicare Services removal of TKA from the inpatient-only list.

RESULTS

A total of 13,669 patients had outpatient TKA performed from 2013 to 2018. Most patients had LOS ≥1 day (77.1%). The LOS 0 cohort demonstrated a lower 30-day readmission rate (1.8%) compared to LOS ≥1 (2.8%), P > .01. Both groups demonstrated a low 30-day reoperation rate, LOS 0 (0.7%) and LOS ≥1 (1.1%), P = .05. Regression analysis demonstrated risk factors for LOS ≥1 day included COPD, ASA ≥3, age >75, and BMI >35 kg/m². Regression analysis demonstrated male gender, age >75, ASA ≥3, and albumin <3.5 g/dL were risk factors for readmission. Hypertension was a risk factor for 30-day reoperation.

CONCLUSION

Risk factors for LOS ≥1 day include age >75, ASA ≥3, BMI >35 kg/m². In addition, BMI >35 kg/m² was a risk factor for readmission and reoperation. These findings reinforce appropriate patient selection when considering outpatient TKA.

Same-day discharge arthroplasty has a higher overall complications rate than fast-track arthroplasty: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Published studies have reported many inconsistent results regarding the comparison of same-day discharge total joint arthroplasty (TJA) and inpatient TJA. More notably, many recent studies comparing same-day discharge TJA with fast-track TJA presented higher rates of complications for same-day discharge TJA, which raises concerns about the safety of same-day discharge TJA.

METHODS

We systematically searched the MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases up to June 2020 for studies comparing mortality, readmission, and complications in same-day discharge and inpatient total hip or knee arthroplasty. Studies that used inpatient TJA as the control could be further divided into fast-track inpatient TJA (length of stay [LOS] ≤ 2 days) and traditional inpatient TJA (no restrictions on LOS). Relative risks were pooled to compare the outcomes of the same-day discharge group and the control group.

RESULTS

According to selection criteria and quality assessment, 14 studies including 222,766 cases were identified. There was no significant difference in the risk of mortality (RR = 1.42, CI [0.67, 3.01]) or readmission (RR = 0.93, CI [0.79, 1.10]) between same-day discharge TJA and inpatient TJA. Compared with fast-track TJA, the rate of overall complications in same-day discharge TJA was significantly higher (RR = 1.67, CI [1.45, 1.93]), while the rates of overall complications were similar between same-day discharge and traditional inpatient TJA (RR = 0.83, CI [0.67, 1.03]).

CONCLUSION

The overall safety of same-day discharge TJA is satisfactory; however, more complications were detected in same-day discharge TJA than that in fast-track TJA. Complications in same-day discharge TJA might be underestimated in some previous studies taking long-staying inpatient TJA as control. Being more cautious about complications is necessary in the care of same-day discharge TJA, and extensive prospective studies are needed to explore the optimized option that weighs both cost and complications.

Cost-effectiveness of Same-day Discharge Surgery for Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Pragmatic Randomized Controlled Study

Background

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) causes a great medical burden globally, and the same-day discharge (SDD) method has previously been considered to be cost saving. However, a standard cost-effectiveness analysis (CEA) in a randomized controlled trial (RCT) is needed to evaluated the benefits of SDD when performing THA from the perspective of both economic and clinical outcomes.

Methods

Eighty-four participants undergoing primary THA were randomized to either the SDD group or the inpatient group. Outcomes were assessed by an independent orthopedist who was not in the surgical team, using the Oxford Hip Score (OHS), EuroQol 5D (EQ-5D), SF-36 scores and the quality-adjusted life years (QALYs). All the cost information was also collected.

Results

The mean stay of patients in the SDD group was 21.70 ± 3.45 h, while the inpatient group was 78.15 ± 26.36 h. This trial did not detect any significant differences in OHS and QALYs. The total cost in the SDD group was significantly lower than that in the inpatient group (¥69,771.27 ± 6,608.00 vs. ¥80,666.17 ± 8,421.96, p < 0.001). From the perspective of total cost, when measuring OHS, the incremental effect was -0.12 and the incremental cost was -¥10,894.90. The mean incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) was 90,790.83. When measuring QALYs, the incremental effect was 0.02, and the ICER was negative. Sensitivity analysis produced similar results.

Conclusions

SDD has an acceptable likelihood of being more cost-effective than the traditional inpatient option. After conducting cost-utility analysis, SDD resulted in better QALYs, while significantly reducing the total cost.

Comparing complications of outpatient management of slipped capital femoral epiphysis and Blount’s disease: A database study

BACKGROUND

Currents trends in pediatric orthopaedics has seen an increase in surgeries being successfully completed in an outpatient setting. Two recent examples include slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) and Blount’s disease. Surgical indications are well-studied for each pathology, but to our knowledge, there is an absence in literature analyzing safety and efficacy of inpatient vs outpatient management of either condition. We believed there would be no increase in adverse outcomes associated with outpatient treatment of either conditions.

AIM

To investigate whether outpatient surgery for SCFE and Blount’s disease is associated with increased risk of adverse outcomes.

METHODS

The 2015-2017 American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program Pediatric Registries were used to compare patient characteristics, rates of complications, and readmissions between outpatient and inpatient surgery for SCFE and Blount’s disease.

RESULTS

Total 1788 SCFE database entries were included, 30% were performed in an outpatient setting. In situ pinning was used in 98.5% of outpatient surgeries and 87.8% of inpatient surgeries (P < 0.0001). Inpatients had a greater percent of total complications than outpatients 2.57% and 1.65% respectively. Regarding Blount’s disease, outpatient surgeries constituted 41.2% of the 189 procedures included in our study. The majority of inpatients were treated with a tibial osteotomy, while the majority of outpatients had a physeal arrest (P < 0.0001). Complications were encountered in 7.4% of patients, with superficial surgical site infections and wound dehiscence being the most common. 1.6% of patients had a readmission. No differences in complication and readmission risks were found between inpatients and outpatients.

CONCLUSION

The current trend is shifting towards earlier discharges and performing procedures in an outpatient setting. This can be safely performed for a large portion of children with SCFE and Blount’s disease without increasing the risk of complications or readmissions. Osteotomies are more commonly performed in an inpatient setting where monitoring is available.

Complications of total hip or knee arthroplasty are not significantly more common after ambulatory surgery than after in-patient surgery and enhanced recovery: A case-control study with propensity-score matching

BACKGROUND

Reluctance to perform total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA) on an ambulatory basis stems from concern that complications might be more common than with enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS). The objective of this study was to compare the risks of complications, readmission, and reoperation with these two strategies.

HYPOTHESIS

The complication rate is significantly higher after ambulatory surgery (AS) than with ERAS.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Consecutive patients who underwent primary unilateral THA or TKA by two senior surgeons to treat a non-traumatic condition between July 2016 and December 2019 were eligible. We developed a propensity score, which we used to individually match each of the 91 patients managed by AS to the 91 patients managed with ERAS (control group). Follow-up was 3 months. The primary outcome was development of a complication within the first 3 months. Secondary outcomes were complication severity as classified according to Clavien-Dindo, re-admissions within 3 months, and re-operations within 3 months.

RESULTS

Complications were not significantly more common after AS than with ERAS (15% and 11%, respectively, p=0.38). No significant differences were found between the two groups for complication severity (2.9±0.5 versus 2.6±0.8), proportion of re-admitted patients (14% versus 9%), or proportion of re-operated patients (14% versus 9%).

DISCUSSION

The risk of complications was not higher after AS than with ERAS. Reluctance to perform AS due to concern about safety does not seem justified by the evidence.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III, propensity score-matched case-control study.

Safety Considerations for Outpatient Arthroplasty

Since 2018, the number of total joint arthroplasties (TJAs) performed on an outpatient basis has dramatically increased. Both surgeon and anesthesiologist should be aware of the implications for the safety of outpatient TJAs and potential patient risk factors that could alter this safety profile. Although smaller studies suggest that the risk of negative outcomes is equivalent when comparing outpatient and inpatient arthroplasty, larger database analyses suggest that, even when matched for comorbidities, patients undergoing outpatient arthroplasty may be at increased risk of surgical or medical complications. Appropriate patient selection is critical for the success of any outpatient arthroplasty program. Potential exclusion criteria for outpatient TJA may include age greater than 75 years, bleeding disorder, history of deep vein thrombosis, uncontrolled diabetes mellitus, and hypoalbuminemia, among others. Patient optimization before surgery is also warranted. The potential risks of same-day versus next-day discharge have yet to be elicited in a large-scale manner.

Impact of enhanced recovery pathways on safety and efficacy of hip and knee arthroplasty: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Over the past decades, clinical pathways (CPs) for hip and knee arthroplasty have been strongly and continuously evolved based on scientific evidence and innovation.

AIM

The present systematic review, including meta-analysis, aimed to compare the safety and efficacy of enhanced recovery pathways (ERP) with regular pathways for patients with hip and/or knee arthroplasty.

METHODS

A literature search in healthcare databases (Embase, PubMed, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, and Web of Science) was conducted from inception up to June 2018. Relevant randomized controlled trials as well as observational studies comparing ERP, based on novel evidence, with regular or standard pathways, prescribing care as usual for hip and/or knee arthroplasty, were included. The effect of both CPs was assessed for (serious) adverse events [(S)AEs], readmission rate, length of hospital stay (LoS), clinician-derived clinical outcomes, patient reported outcome measures (PROMs), and financial benefits. If possible, a meta-analysis was performed. In case of considerable heterogeneity among studies, a qualitative analysis was performed.

RESULTS

Forty studies were eligible for data extraction, 34 in meta-analysis and 40 in qualitative analysis. The total sample size consisted of more than 2 million patients undergoing hip or knee arthroplasty, with a mean age of 66 years and with 60% of females. The methodological quality of the included studies ranged from average to good. The ERP had lower (S)AEs [relative risk (RR): 0.9, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.8-1] and readmission rates (RR: 0.8, 95%CI: 0.7-1), and reduced LoS [median days 6.5 (0.3-9.5)], and showed similar or improved outcomes for functional recovery and PROMs compared to regular pathways. The analyses for readmission presented a statistically significant difference in the enhanced recovery pathway in favor of knee arthroplasties (P = 0.01). ERP were reported to be cost effective, and the cost reduction varied largely between studies (€109 and $20573). The overall outcomes of all studies reported using Grading of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation, presented moderate or high quality of evidence.

CONCLUSION

This study showed that implementation of ERP resulted in improved clinical and patient related outcomes compared to regular pathways in hip and knee arthroplasty, with a potential reduction of costs.

Increased Complications in Octogenarians Undergoing Same-Day Discharge following Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Matched Cohort Analysis

Same-day discharge pathways in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) are gaining popularity as a means to increase patient satisfaction and reduce overall costs, but these pathways have not been thoroughly evaluated in potentially at-risk populations, such as in patients ≥80 years old. The purpose of this study was to compare 90-day complications and mortality following same-day discharge after primary TKA in patients ≥80 years old and those <80 years old. Patients who underwent unilateral primary TKA, were discharged on postoperative day 0, and had a minimum 90-day follow-up were identified in a national insurance claims database (PearlDiver Technologies) using Current Procedural Terminology code 27447. These patients were stratified into two cohorts based upon age: (1) nonoctogenarians (<80 years old) and (2) octogenarians (≥80 years old). These cohorts were propensity matched based upon sex, Charlson comorbidity index, and obesity status. Univariate analysis was performed to determine differences in 90-day complications and mortality between the two cohorts. In total, 1,111 patients were included in each cohort. Both cohorts were successfully matched, with no observed differences in matched parameters for demographics or comorbidities. There was no significant difference in 90-day mortality between the two cohorts (p = 0.896). However, octogenarians were at significantly increased risk of postoperative atrial fibrillation (20.8 vs. 10.4%; p < 0.001), nonatrial fibrillation arrhythmias (8.4 vs. 5.6%; p = 0.009), pneumonia (4.5 vs. 2.2%; p = 0.002), stroke (3.1 vs. 1.7%; p = 0.037), heart failure (10.5 vs. 7.5%; p = 0.012), and urinary tract infection (UTI; 14.3 vs. 9.4%; p < 0.001) compared with the nonoctogenarian cohort. Relative to matched controls, octogenarians were at significantly increased risk of numerous 90-day medical complications following same-day primary TKA, including cardiopulmonary complications, stroke, and UTI. Clinicians should be cognizant of these complications and counsel patients appropriately when electing to perform same-day TKA in the octogenarian population.

Same-Day Discharge Total Hip and Knee Arthroplasty: Trends, Complications, and Readmission Rates

BACKGROUND

Although total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA) are transitioning to surgery centers, there remain limited data on trends, comorbidities, and complications in patients discharged the same day of surgery. In addition, many studies are limited to the Medicare population, excluding a large proportion of outpatient surgery patients.

METHODS

Primary, elective THA/TKA cases between 2010 and 2017 were retrospectively identified using the PearlDiver All-Payer Database and separated based on surgery as well as same-day discharge (SDD) or non-SDD. Data were collected on demographics, rates, comorbidities, and complications. Multivariable logistic regression determined adjusted odds ratios (ORs) for 90-day complications requiring readmission for each group.

RESULTS

In total, 1,789,601 (68.8% TKA, 31.2% THA) patients were identified where 2.9% of TKAs and 2.2% of THAs were SDD. Annual SDD rates are increasing, with a 15.8% mean annual change for SDD-THA and 11.1% for SDD-TKA (P < .001). SDD patients were younger with fewer comorbidities (P < .001). Regression analysis showed an overall slightly higher OR of complications requiring readmission for SDD-TKA vs non-SDD-TKA (OR 1.14, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.07-1.21, P < .001). There was no significant difference for SDD-THA vs non-SDD-THA (OR 1.03, 95% CI 0.94-1.13, P = .49). In univariate analysis, SDD-THA vs SDD-TKA had more mechanical complications (P < .001), but less pulmonary embolisms (P < .001). Regression analysis showed a slightly higher risk of complications for SDD-THA vs SDD-TKA (OR 1.19, 95% CI 0.99-1.44, P = .05).

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of SDD is rising. SDD-THA is increasing more rapidly than SDD-TKA. SDD patients are generally younger with fewer comorbidities. SDD-TKA has slightly higher odds of complications requiring readmission than non-SDD-TKA. SDD-THA and SDD-TKA have different complication profiles.

Fewer Adverse Events Following Outpatient Compared with Inpatient Unicompartmental Knee Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) is a common procedure for unicompartmental knee arthritis, often resulting in pain relief and improved function. The demand for total knee arthroplasty in the U.S. is projected to grow 85% between 2014 and 2030, and the volume of UKA procedures is growing 3 to 6 times faster than that of total knee arthroplasty. The purpose of the present study was to examine the safety of outpatient and inpatient UKA and to investigate changes over time as outpatient procedures were performed more frequently.

METHODS

Patients who underwent UKA from 2005 to 2018 as part of the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program were identified. Patients were divided into an early cohort (5,555 patients from 2005 to 2015) and late cohort (5,627 patients from 2016 to 2018). Outpatient status was defined as discharge on the day of surgery. Adverse events within 30 days postoperatively were compared, with adjustment for baseline characteristics with use of standard multivariate regression and propensity-score-matching techniques.

RESULTS

Among the 5,555 cases in the early cohort, the rate of surgical-site infection was lower for inpatient (0.84%) compared with outpatient UKA (1.69%; adjusted relative risk [RR] for inpatient, 0.5; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.2 to 1.0; p = 0.045); no other significant differences were identified. Among the 5,627 cases in the late cohort, inpatient UKA had higher rates of any complication (2.53% compared with 0.95% for outpatient UKA; adjusted RR for inpatient, 2.5; 95% CI, 1.4 to 4.3; p = 0.001) and readmission (1.81% compared with 0.88% for outpatient UKA; adjusted RR for inpatient, 2.0; 95% CI, 1.1 to 3.5; p = 0.023). In the propensity-score-matched comparison for the late cohort, inpatient UKA had a higher rate of any complication (RR for inpatient, 2.0; 95% CI, 1.0 to 4.0; p = 0.049) and return to the operating room (RR for inpatient, 4.3; 95% CI, 1.4 to 12.6; p = 0.009). Although the rate of readmission was almost twice as high among inpatients (1.67% compared with 0.84% for outpatients; RR for inpatient, 2.0; 95% CI, 1.0 to 4.1; p = 0.059), this difference did not reach significance with the sample size studied. There was a significant reduction in the overall rate of complications over time (3.44% in the early cohort compared with 2.11% in the late cohort; adjusted RR for late cohort, 0.7; 95% CI, 0.5 to 0.8; p = 0.001), with a more than fourfold reduction among outpatients (3.95% in the early cohort compared with 0.95% in the late cohort; adjusted RR for late cohort, 0.3; 95% CI, 0.1 to 0.5; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Outpatient UKA was associated with a lower risk of complications compared with inpatient UKA when contemporary data are examined. We identified a dramatic reduction in complications across the early and late cohorts, suggesting an improvement in quality over time, with the largest improvements seen among outpatients. This shift may represent changes in patient selection or improvements in perioperative protocols.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Outpatient Shoulder Arthroplasty Patient Selection, Patient Experience, and Cost Analyses: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

The utilization of outpatient shoulder arthroplasty has been increasing. With increasing pressure to reduce costs, further underscored by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, many health-care organizations will move toward outpatient interventions to conserve inpatient resources. Although abundant literature has shown the advantages of outpatient total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA), there is a relative paucity describing outpatient shoulder arthroplasty. Thus, the purpose of this study was to summarize the peer-reviewed literature of outpatient shoulder arthroplasty with particular attention to patient selection, patient outcomes, and cost benefits.

METHODS

The PubMed, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), and Embase databases were queried according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. All articles on outpatient shoulder arthroplasty were included. Data on patient selection, patient outcomes, and cost analyses were recorded. Patient outcomes, including complications, reoperations, and readmissions, were analyzed by weighted average.

RESULTS

Twenty-three articles were included for analysis. There were 3 review articles and 20 studies with Level-III or IV evidence as assessed per The Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery Level of Evidence criteria. Patient selection was most often predicated on age <70 years, body mass index (BMI) <35 kg/m2, absence of active cardiopulmonary comorbidities, and presence of home support. Complications and readmissions were not common and either improved or were equivalent to those of inpatient shoulder arthroplasty. Patient satisfaction was high in studies of short-term and intermediate-term follow-up. The proposed cost benefit ranged from $747 to $53,202 with outpatient shoulder arthroplasty.

CONCLUSIONS

The published literature to date supports outpatient shoulder arthroplasty as an effective, safe, and cost-reducing intervention with proper patient selection.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Association Between Same-Day Discharge Total Joint Arthroplasty and Risk of 90-Day Adverse Events in Patients with ASA Classification of ≥3

BACKGROUND

Although safety in same-day discharge total joint arthroplasty (TJA) has been reported, findings are limited to healthier patients, specific surgeons, and/or specific institutions. Indications for same-day discharge TJA have expanded to include patients with multiple comorbidities; however, safety in this specific patient population remains unknown. Therefore, we sought to compare the risk of 90-day adverse events in higher-risk patients undergoing same-day discharge versus inpatient TJA.

METHODS

The Kaiser Permanente Total Joint Replacement Registry was utilized to conduct a cohort study. All patients with an American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) classification of ≥3 who underwent primary elective TJA for osteoarthritis from 2017 through 2018 were identified. The risk of 90-day adverse events (i.e., emergency department visits, unplanned readmissions, complications, and mortality) was evaluated with use of propensity score-weighted Cox proportional hazard regression including noninferiority testing with a margin of 1.10.

RESULTS

The cohort included a total of 5,250 patients who underwent total hip arthroplasty and 9,752 patients who underwent total knee arthroplasty, of whom 1,742 (33.2%) and 3,283 (33.7%) had same-day discharge, respectively. Same-day discharge hip arthroplasty was noninferior to an inpatient stay in terms of emergency department visits (hazard ratio [HR], 0.73; 1-sided HR 95% upper bound [UB], 0.84), readmissions (HR, 0.47; 95% UB, 0.61), and complications (HR, 0.63; 95% UB, 0.75); we did not have evidence of noninferiority for mortality (HR, 0.84; 95% UB, 1.97). Same-day discharge knee arthroplasty was noninferior to an inpatient stay in terms of emergency department visits (HR, 0.79; 95% UB, 0.87), readmission (HR, 0.80; 95% UB, 0.95), complications (HR, 0.72; 95% UB, 0.82), and mortality (HR, 0.53; 95% UB, 1.03).

CONCLUSIONS

We found that same-day discharge TJA did not increase the risk of emergency department visits, unplanned readmissions, and complications compared with an inpatient stay for higher-risk patients, suggesting that it is possible to expand indications for same-day discharge TJA in the hospital setting while maintaining safety.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Fatores associados ao desenvolvimento de complicações precoces após artroplastia total do joelho

Objetivo Identificar fatores de risco para o desenvolvimento de complicações pós-operatórias locais ou clínicas ocorridas até 30 dias após a cirurgia em pacientes submetidos a artroplastia total do joelho.

Métodos Todos os pacientes submetidos a artroplastia de joelho realizada neste hospital no período do estudo foram incluídos na análise, baseada em dados dos prontuários dos pacientes, para investigar os fatores associados à ocorrência de complicações locais ou clínicas durante o internamento até 30 dias após o procedimento que necessitaram de alguma intervenção.

Resultados Dos 157 pacientes incluídos no estudo, 17,1% cursaram com alguma complicação. As mais prevalentes foram artrofibrose (6,4%), infecção profunda (4,4%) e infecção superficial (2,5%), dentre outras. A maior idade e maior número de comorbidades prévias foram relacionadas com maior risco de complicações pós-operatórias.

Conclusões A maior idade e maior número de comorbidades foram relacionados a um risco aumentado de complicações pós-operatórias. O escore Sociedade Americana de Anestesiologistas (ASA, na sigla em inglês) se mostrou insuficiente para avaliar a ocorrência de complicações pós artroplastia de joelho e novas ferramentas devem ser empregadas para este fim

Spinal versus general anesthesia for patients undergoing outpatient total knee arthroplasty: a national propensity matched analysis of early postoperative outcomes

BACKGROUND

A comparison of different anesthetic techniques to evaluate short term outcomes has yet to be performed for patients undergoing outpatient knee replacements. The aim of this investigation was to compare short term outcomes of spinal (SA) versus general anesthesia (GA) in patients undergoing outpatient total knee replacements.

METHODS

The ACS NSQIP datasets were queried to extract patients who underwent primary, elective, unilateral total knee arthroplasty (TKA) between 2005 and 2018 performed as an outpatient procedure. The primary outcome was a composite score of serious adverse events (SAE). The primary independent variable was the type of anesthesia (e.g., general vs. spinal).

RESULTS

A total of 353,970 patients who underwent TKA procedures were identified comprising of 6,339 primary, elective outpatient TKA procedures. Of these, 2,034 patients received GA and 3,540 received SA. A cohort of 1,962 patients who underwent outpatient TKA under GA were propensity matched for covariates with patients who underwent outpatient TKA under SA. SAE rates at 72 h after surgery were not greater in patients receiving GA compared to SA (0.92%, 0.66%, P = 0.369). In contrast, minor adverse events were greater in the GA group compared to SA (2.09%, 0.51%), P < 0.001. The rate of postoperative transfusion was greater in the patients receiving GA.

CONCLUSIONS

The type of anesthetic technique, general or spinal anesthesia does not alter short term SAEs, readmissions and failure to rescue in patients undergoing outpatient TKR surgery. Recognizing the benefits of SA tailored to the anesthetic management may maximize the clinical benefits in this patient population.

The Impact of Mental Illness on Postoperative Adverse Outcomes After Outpatient Joint Surgery

BACKGROUND

The effect of pre-existing mental illness on outpatient surgical outcomes is not well characterized. The objective of this study was to evaluate the association between pre-existing mental illness diagnosis and postoperative complications after outpatient total knee (TKA) and total hip arthroplasty (THA) and 2) compare with inpatient total joint arthroplasty (TJA).

METHODS

The Mariner Claims Database was used to capture patients undergoing outpatient TJA from 2010 to 2017. Patients were grouped into three categories: those with an existing history of anxiety and/or depression, those with severe mental illness, and those without history of mental illness. Additional subgroup analysis compared those with severe mental illness undergoing outpatient vs inpatient TJA. Outcomes were analyzed using multivariable logistic regression (P < .05).

RESULTS

Patients undergoing outpatient TJA with prior history of anxiety and/or depression or severe mental illness had an increased risk of emergency department (ED) visits (TKA, P < .001; THA, P = .014) within 90 days compared with those without history of mental illness. Severe mental illness was also associated with increased risk of medical complications at 90 days (TKA, P < .001; THA, P = .006). When compared with those undergoing inpatient surgery, patients undergoing outpatient TKA with severe mental illness were at increased risk of periprosthetic infection (P = .005) and ED visit (P = .003) within 90 days of surgery.

CONCLUSION

Anxiety/depression and severe mental illness are associated with higher rates of ED visits after outpatient TJA. Patients with severe mental illness also experienced more adverse events, whereas those with anxiety and/or depression had similar rates compared with control. A higher rate of adverse outcomes was seen after TKA in patients with severe mental illness when surgery was performed in the outpatient setting vs those that had surgery as an inpatient.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III.

Periprosthetic joint infection after primary TKA in the medicare population: How frequently are patients revised at a different hospital?

BACKGROUND

Periprosthetic infection (PJI) after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) places a significant burden on hospitals. We sought to describe the proportion of patients undergoing revision for PJI at a different hospital within one year of primary TKA and whether patient characteristics or hospital volume were associated with this change.

METHODS

Medicare data from 2005 to 2014 was retrospectively reviewed using PearlDiver. All patients over 64 years undergoing revision for PJI within one year of primary TKA were stratified by the revision occurring within 90 days. Hospitals were grouped by annual TKA volume as Low (<50), Medium (51-100), High (101-200), and Very High (>200). Associations of patient characteristics and hospital volume with revision at a different hospital were assessed using Chi-squared tests and Somers' D.

RESULTS

Of 8,337 patients undergoing revision within 90 days of TKA, 1,370 (16%) were revised at a different hospital. Changing hospitals was associated with having primary TKA at a lower volume hospital (24% for low, 15% medium, 12% high, and 12% very high; P < 0.001). Of 7,608 patients undergoing revision between 91 and 365 days, 1,110 (15%) were revised at a different hospital. Changing hospitals was associated with having primary TKA at a lower volume hospital (26% for low, 14% medium, 10% high, and 9% very high; P < 0.001). Changing hospitals was not associated with sex or age.

CONCLUSION

Patients frequently undergo revision for PJI at a different hospital, even within 90 days of TKA. Further research is needed to understand these implications of this care pathway shift.

Similar 90-day outcomes among inpatient and outpatient arthroplasties : a single-surgeon matched cohort analysis

AIMS

The proportion of arthroplasties performed in the ambulatory setting has increased considerably. However, there are concerns whether same-day discharge may increase the risk of complications. The aim of this study was to compare 90-day outcomes between inpatient arthroplasties and outpatient arthroplasties performed at an ambulatory surgery centre (ASC), and determine whether there is a learning curve associated with performing athroplasties in an ASC.

METHODS

Among a single-surgeon cohort of 970 patients who underwent arthroplasty at an ASC, 854 (88.0%) were matched one-to-one with inpatients based on age, sex, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) grade, BMI, and procedure (105 could not be adequately matched and 11 lacked 90-day follow-up). The cohort included 281 total hip arthroplasties (THAs) (32.9%), 267 unicompartmental knee arthroplasties (31.3%), 242 primary total knee arthroplasties (TKAs) (28.3%), 60 hip resurfacings (7.0%), two revision THAs (0.3%), and two revision TKAs (0.3%). Outcomes included readmissions, reoperations, visits to the emergency department, unplanned clinic visits, and complications.

RESULTS

The inpatient and outpatient groups were similar in all demographic variables, reflecting successful matching. The reoperation rate was 0.9% in both cohorts (p = 1.000). Rates of readmission (2.0% inpatient vs 1.6% outpatient), any complications (5.9% vs 5.6%), minor complications (4.2% vs 3.9%), visits to the emergency department (2.7% vs 1.4%), and unplanned clinic visits (5.7% vs 5.5%) were lower in the outpatient group but did not reach significance with the sample size studied. A learning curve may exist, as seen by significant reductions in the reoperation and overall complication rates among outpatient arthroplasties over time (p = 0.032 and p = 0.007, respectively), despite those in this group becoming significantly older and heavier (both p < 0.001) during the study period.

CONCLUSION

Arthroplasties performed at ASCs appear to be safe in appropriately selected patients, but may be associated with a learning curve as shown by the significant decrease in complication and reoperation rates during the study period. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(7 Supple B):84-90.

Influence of outpatient total knee arthroplasty compared to inpatient surgery on medical and economic outcomes

Firstly, this study compared the rate of readmission after a total knee arthroplasty between selected out- patients (no hospitalization, directly sent home after surgery) and inpatients (3 days hospitalization) at 6 weeks. Secondly, it examined the mobility and the complications in the two groups after the same period of time. The rate of readmission, complications and knee mobility of 32 outpatients (M-age : 61 years ± 10 ; 10 females), were compared against those of 32 birth- matched inpatients (M-age : 64 years ± 8.6 ; 10 females). No patient was re-admitted in either group. Post- surgical complications included one hematoma resorbed at 6 weeks in the outpatient group and three joint effusions in the inpatient group. There were no instances of deep venous thrombosis, failure of primary fixation, infection, or wound dehiscence. Knee mobility was identical between the two groups. This is the first study to compare inpatient and outpatient total knee arthroplasty in a Belgian setting. Our study suggests that day-care total knee arthroplasty in selected patients is possible without increasing the rate of re-admission and complications, and without affecting the mobility at 6 weeks. However, the Belgian financial incentives do not seem to currently promote this surgical approach. These results should be confirmed with a larger sample to define the adequate length of stay after a total knee arthroplasty.

Contemporary Outpatient Arthroplasty Is Safe Compared with Inpatient Surgery: A Propensity Score-Matched Analysis of 574,375 Procedures

BACKGROUND

Outpatient joint arthroplasty is a potential modality for increased case throughput and is rising in demand. However, we are aware of no study that has compared outcomes between risk-matched outpatient and inpatient procedures within the last 7 years. The aims of this study were to compare matched patient cohorts who underwent outpatient or inpatient joint arthroplasty in terms of 30-day adverse events and readmission rates.

METHODS

From the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database, we identified patients who underwent primary total hip arthroplasty (THA), primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA), and primary unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) from 2009 to 2018. Using 10 perioperative variables, patients who underwent an outpatient procedure were 1:4 propensity score-matched with patients who underwent an inpatient procedure. The rates of 30-day adverse events and readmission were compared using the McNemar test. The risk factors for adverse events and readmissions were identified using multivariate regression.

RESULTS

Of 574,375 patients identified, 21,506 (3.74%) underwent an outpatient procedure. After propensity score matching, an outpatient joint arthroplasty was associated with a lower rate of adverse events (3.18% compared with 7.45%; p < 0.001). When assessed individually, outpatient TKA (3.15% compared with 8.11%; p < 0.001), THA (4.94% compared with 10.05%; p < 0.001), and UKA (1.78% compared with 3.39%; p < 0.001) were all associated with fewer adverse events overall and there was no difference in the rate of 30-day readmission, when compared with inpatient analogs. Outpatient joint arthroplasty was an independent factor for lower adverse events (odds ratio [OR], 0.407 [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.369 to 0.449]; p < 0.001), with no increase in the risk of readmission (OR, 1.004 [95% CI, 0.878 to 1.148]; p = 0.951).

CONCLUSIONS

Contemporary outpatient joint arthroplasty demonstrated lower rates of adverse events with no increased rate of 30-day readmission when compared with risk-matched inpatient counterparts. Although multiple factors should guide the decision for the site of care, outpatient arthroplasty may be a safe alternative to inpatient arthroplasty.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Outpatient Versus Inpatient Surgical Fixation of Isolated Ankle Fractures: An Analysis of 90-Day Complications, Readmissions, and Costs

Despite increasing interest toward managing isolated ankle fractures in an outpatient setting, evidence of its safety remains largely limited. The 2007 to 2014 Humana Administrative Claims database was queried to identify patients undergoing open reduction internal fixation for unimalleolar, bimalleolar, or trimalleolar isolated closed ankle fractures. Two cohorts (outpatient versus inpatient) were then matched on the basis of age, sex, race, region, fracture type (uni-/bi-/trimalleolar) and Elixhauser Comorbidity Index to control for selection bias. Multivariate regression analyses were performed to report independent impact of outpatient-treated ankle fracture surgery on 90-day complications, readmission, and emergency department visit rates. Independent-samples t test was used to compare global 90-day costs between cohorts. A total of 5317 inpatient-treated and 6941 outpatient-treated closed ankle fractures were included in the final cohort. After matching and multivariate analyses, patients with outpatient ankle fractures, compared with patients with inpatient ankle fractures, had statistically lower rates of pneumonia (2.3% versus 4.0%; p < .001), myocardial infarction (0.9% versus 1.8%; p = .005), acute renal failure (2.2% versus 5.3%; p < .001), urinary tract infections (7.4% versus 12.3%; p < .001), and pressure ulcers (0.9% versus 2.0%; p = .001). Outpatient ankle fractures also had lower rates of 90-day readmissions (9.7% versus 14.1%; p < .001) and emergency department visits (13.8% versus 16.2%; p = .028). Last, overall 90-day costs for outpatient ankle fractures were nearly $9000 lower than costs for inpatient ankle fractures ($12,923 versus $21,866; p < .001). Based on our findings, it appears that outpatient treatment of ankle fractures can be deemed safe and feasible in a select cohort of patients.

The introduction of day-case total knee arthroplasty in a national healthcare system: A review of the literature and development of a hospital pathway

INTRODUCTION

As we now drive to reinitiate our full capacity elective services in an attempt to tackle an ever-growing demand for lower limb arthroplasty, this pandemic has presented rare opportunities to revise and re-engage elective arthroplasty pathways aimed at improving patient care and healthcare efficiency.

AIMS

We present the development of an evidence-based multidisciplinary perioperative care pathway for day-case total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in a United Kingdom National Health Service (NHS) institution, in conjunction with a review of the literature upon which the protocol is founded.

METHODOLOGY

We performed a review of the literature reporting complication or readmission rates at ≥30 day postoperative following day-case TKA. Electronic searches were performed using four databases from the date of inception to November 2020. Relevant studies were identified, data extracted, and qualitative synthesis performed.

RESULTS

13 manuscripts with a total of 3370 day-case TKAs, defined as discharged on the same-calendar-day of surgery, were included in analysis. Mean 90-day complication rates (8.31% [range, 0-16.3%] vs 9.49% [range, 0-13.1%], respectively) and readmission rates (2.71% [range, 0-10.0%] vs 3.41% [range, 0-9.9%], respectively) were equivocal between day-case and inpatient TKA. The overall rate of successful same-calendar-day discharge was 95.8%. Our evaluation and critique of the evidence-based literature identifies day-case TKA to be safe, effective and economical, benefitting both patients and healthcare systems alike.

CONCLUSION

We further validate the introduction of our institutional Elective Day Surgery Arthroplasty Pathway (EDSAP) based on the evidence presented. Careful patient selection paralleled with well-defined care pathways are essential for successful introduction of day-case TKA into the NHS.