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

Evaluating the Safety and Efficacy of Same Calendar Day Discharges for Total Joint Arthroplasty in a Veterans Affairs Hospital

BACKGROUND

Total joint arthroplasty (TJA) is one of the most common orthopaedic procedures performed in the United States. In the Veterans Affairs (VA) healthcare system, there has been a slower adoption of the early discharge models due to medical and social complexities of patients. Our study aimed to determine outcomes of a same-day discharge protocol. Patients discharged on the same calendar day of surgery were compared to patients discharged on postoperative day one or later.

METHODS

Retrospective review of all patients undergoing primary TJA over a three-year period (January 1, 2020, to December 31, 2022) was performed. Patients were split into two cohorts: same calendar day (SDD) versus next calendar day or greater (EDJ) discharge. Cohorts were subdivided into hip and knee arthroplasty. Patient demographics, medical comorbidities, length of stay, 30-and 90-day complications, 90-day readmissions, and emergency room (ER) visits were assessed. There were 233 EDJ cases compared to 143 SDD cases. The SDD had more males, otherwise no significant differences in demographic data existed. Mean length of stay in the EDJ group was 1.2 days (range, one to four).

RESULTS

Overall, 30-day (5.6% EDJ versus 3.5% SDD) and 90-day complications (3.9% EDJ versus 4.2% SDD), readmissions (3.4% EDJ versus 2.8% SDD), and ER visits (9.0% EDJ versus 9.1% SDD) were similar between cohorts. Subanalysis of the THA and TKA similarly demonstrated no statistically significant results.

CONCLUSION

Our study showed when comparing SDD to next calendar day or greater discharges at a VA health system, there was no difference in outcomes or complication rates. Discharging patients on the same calendar day does not increase ER visits. We have shown the feasibility and effectiveness of an SDD program in a VA health care system. Future studies will focus on longer-term outcomes and patient satisfaction after SDD from a VA medical center.

Mitigating Myocardial Injury After Noncardiac Surgery in Orthopedic Surgery: Toward Improved Outcomes

Myocardial injury after noncardiac surgery (MINS) is a relatively new and underreported diagnosis that significantly contributes to postoperative morbidity and mortality. MINS is defined by elevated cardiac troponin levels postoperatively, with or without symptoms, and affects approximately 11.9% of orthopedic surgery patients. The orthopedic patient population presents unique challenges related to MINS due to patient demographics such as increasing age, comorbidities, and high physiological stress surgeries. Despite the significant impact of MINS on short- and long-term mortality, routine screening in orthopedic surgery and surgery in general remains rare. In this narrative review, we explore the pathophysiology, epidemiology, risk assessment, prevention, and management of MINS in the context of orthopedic surgery. We aim to highlight critical knowledge gaps and propose strategies to address these gaps, including the role of routine screening, novel therapeutic approaches, and the development of orthopedic-specific risk models. In doing so, we hope to mitigate the mortality and morbidity associated with MINS and improve outcomes for orthopedic surgery patients.

Outpatient Versus Inpatient Total Hip and Knee Arthroplasty in Morbidly Obese Patients

BACKGROUND

Morbidly obese patients undergoing total joint arthroplasty (TJA) face increased postoperative complications, yet studies assessing the safety of this surgery in the outpatient setting for this population are lacking. This study aimed to fill this gap by assessing the safety and benefits of outpatient TJA in morbidly obese patients.

METHODS

This study is a retrospective review of a commercial claims database. Based on the setting of the procedure, the patients were divided into four groups as follows: inpatient-TKA (total knee arthroplasty), outpatient-TKA, inpatient-THA (total hip arthroplasty), and outpatient-THA. The two TKA groups were matched based on age, sex, and the Charlson Comorbidity Index. The THA groups were matched similarly. The 30- and 90-day medical and surgical complications were compared between these groups. There were 5,500 patients included in each of the outpatient and inpatient TKA groups and 1,550 in each of the outpatient and inpatient THA groups.

RESULTS

Patients undergoing inpatient TKA had higher rates of pulmonary embolism, urinary tract infection, transfusions, intensive care unit admissions, emergency department visits, readmissions at 30 days, surgical site infections, periprosthetic joint infection, prosthetic dislocations, and costs. As for the inpatient THA group, they had higher rates of pulmonary embolism, urinary tract infection, transfusions, intensive care unit admissions, emergency department visits, and costs.

CONCLUSIONS

It is well-established that morbidly obese patients undergoing TJA have higher complication rates than normal-weight patients, and patients should be counseled before arthroplasty. This study highlights the safety and benefits of outpatient TJA in morbidly obese patients. However, one should note that this was done using an insurance database, in which results may differ if it was done in a public and lower socioeconomic setting. Therefore, future prospective studies are needed to confirm the findings before implementing outpatient TJA in morbidly obese patients.

Same-day discharge pathway for elective total hip and knee arthroplasty patients: a quality improvement project at a Canadian community hospital

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA) surgeries performed annually are increasing, with over $1.26 billion in hospital costs, according to the 2021/2022 Canadian Institute of Health Information report. A trend towards same-day surgery has helped support the rising demand for arthroplasty in an ageing population and has established evidence for patient safety and satisfaction.Burnaby Hospital sought to develop a same-day pathway to increase at-home recovery opportunities and associated recovery benefits. The aim was to increase the same-day discharge (SDD) rate for THA and TKA from 8% to 15% within a 12-month period.The project team used the Model for Improvement framework to guide the team in achieving the project aim. A series of Plan-Do-Study-Act cycles and ramps were conducted on five interventions: screening tool, focused arthroplasty same-day track automatisation, surgical and anaesthesia standardisation and patient education resources.The health authority's electronic health records (MEDITECH) were used to extract 18 months of baseline data. The data analysis software (SQCPack) was used to monitor the data throughout the project to assess its progress. The results of the SDD rate increased from 8% to 20% with a success rate of 82% SDD, while achieving a decrease in readmission rates to 4-7% from a baseline average of 7-8%. There was no increase in emergency room visits and readmission within 30 days for SDD when compared with the standard inpatient cases. Both staff and patients reported high levels of satisfaction.Driven by a working group creates success with clear goals, strong departmental collaboration, and substantial stakeholder and leadership support. The team viewed failures as learning opportunities to adapt new Plan-Do-Study-Act cycles and strategies for developing continuous improvement throughout the project's life cycle. Process automation was key for a sustainable path for improvements; this provided resiliency against changes from external and staffing pressures.

Outpatient Total Joint Arthroplasty in the "Unhealthy": Staying Safe Using Institutional Protocols

BACKGROUND

Recent expansion in the indications for outpatient total joint arthroplasty has led to debates over patient selection. The purpose of this study was to compare early clinical outcomes and complications of same-day discharge (SDD) hip and knee arthroplasties from a high-volume institution based on the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status classification.

METHODS

Prospectively collected data were reviewed for all SDD primary joint arthroplasties between January 2013 and August 2023. There were 8 surgeons who performed 7,258 cases at hospital outpatient (n = 4,288) or ambulatory surgery centers (n = 2,970). This included 3,239 total hip arthroplasties, 1,503 total knee arthroplasties, and 2,516 unicompartmental knee arthroplasties. The ASA 1 group comprised 506 subjects, compared to 5,005 for ASA 2 and 1,736 for ASA 3. The primary outcomes included emergency department (ED) visits, readmissions, complications, and revisions within 24 hours and 90 days of surgery. The ASA 3 group was older (ASA 1 = 55 versus ASA 2 = 63 versus ASA 3 = 66 years; P < .01) and had a higher body mass index (ASA 1 = 25.4 versus ASA 2 = 28.5 versus ASA 3 = 32.7; P < .01).

RESULTS

There were no differences between ASA groups in joint-related ED visits, readmissions, and complications within 24 h and 90 days of surgery (P > .05). Subjects in the ASA 3 group experienced greater 90-day revisions compared to the other groups (ASA 1 = 1 of 506, 0.2% versus ASA 2 = 15 of 5,005, 0.3% versus ASA 3 = 15 of 1,736, 0.9%; P = .01). Regarding systemic events, ASA 1 subjects experienced significantly greater 24-hour complications (8 of 506, 1.6%) and ED visits (5 of 506, 1.0%), and the ASA 3 subjects had a higher incidence of 90-day readmissions (19 of 1,736, 1.1%) compared to the other groups (P < .05). Within 24 hours of discharge, urinary retention and syncope were the most frequent complications that required additional health care utilization.

CONCLUSIONS

Medically optimized patients categorized as ASA 3 can safely undergo SDD hip and knee arthroplasty without increased risk of 24-hour or 90-day complications. Patient preference for outpatient care, reliable social support, and independent functional status are imperative for a successful outpatient program.

Outpatient Total Joint Arthroplasty at a High-Volume Academic Center: An Analysis of Failure to Launch

BACKGROUND

Unanticipated failure to discharge home (failure to launch, FTL) following scheduled same-day discharge (SDD) total joint arthroplasty (TJA) is problematic for the surgical facility with respect to staffing, care coordination, and reimbursement concerns. The aim of this study was to review rates, etiologies, and contributing factors for FTL in SDD TJA at an inpatient academic medical center.

METHODS

All patients who underwent primary TJA between February 2021 and February 2023 were retrospectively reviewed. Of those scheduled for SDD, risk factors for FTL were compared with successful SDD. Readmission and emergency department (ED) visits were compared with historical cohorts. There were 3,093 consecutive primary joint arthroplasties performed, of which 2,411 (78%) were scheduled for SDD.

RESULTS

Overall, SDD was successful in 94.2% (n = 2,272) of patients who had an FTL rate of 5.8%. Specifically, SDD was successful in 91.4% with total hip arthroplasty, 96.0% with total knee arthroplasty, and 98.6% with unicompartmental knee arthroplasty. Factors that significantly increased the risk of FTL included general anesthesia versus spinal anesthesia (P < .0001), later surgery start time (P < .0001), longer surgical time (P = .0043), higher estimated blood loss (P < .0001), women (P = .0102), younger age (P = .0079), and lower preoperative mental health patient-reported outcomes scores (P = .0039). Readmission and ED visit rates were not higher in the SDD group when compared to historical controls (P = .6830).

CONCLUSIONS

With a comprehensive multidisciplinary approach dedicated to improving SDDs at an academic medical center, we have seen successful SDD in nearly 80% of primary TJA, with an FTL rate of 5.8%, and no increased risk of readmission or ED visits. Without adding many personnel, hospital recovery units, or other resources, simple interventions to help decrease FTL have included enhanced preoperative education and expectation settings, improved perioperative communications, reallocating personnel from the inpatient to the outpatient setting, the use of short-acting spinal anesthetics, and earlier scheduled surgery times.

The Financial Burden of Patient Comorbidities on Total Hip Arthroplasties-A Matched Cohort Analysis of High Comorbidity Burden and Non-High Comorbidity Burden Patients

BACKGROUND

The impact of increased patient comorbidities on the cost-effectiveness of total hip arthroplasty (THAs) is lacking. This study aimed to compare revenue, costs, and short-term (90 days) surgical outcomes between patients who have and do not have a high comorbidity burden (HCB).

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 14,949 patients who underwent an elective, unilateral THA between 2012 and 2021. Patients were stratified into HCB (Charlson Comorbidity Index ≥ 5 and American Society of Anesthesiology scores of 3 or 4) and non-HCB groups, and were further 1:1 propensity matched based on baseline characteristics. Perioperative data, revenue, costs, and contribution margins (CMs) of the inpatient episode were compared between groups. Also, 90-day readmissions and revisions were compared between groups. Of the 11,717 patients who had available financial data (n = 1,017 HCB, n = 10,700 non-HCB), 1,914 patients were included in the final matched analyses (957 per group).

RESULTS

Total (P < .001) and direct (P < .001) costs were significantly higher for HCB patients. Comparable revenue between cohorts (P = .083) resulted in a significantly decreased CM in the HCB patient group (P < .001). The HCB patients were less likely to be discharged home (P < .001) and had significantly higher 90-day readmission rates (P = .049).

CONCLUSIONS

Increased THA costs for HCB patients were not matched by increased revenue, resulting in decreased CM. Higher rates of nonhome discharge and readmissions in the HCB population add to the additional financial burden. Adjustments to the current reimbursement models should better account for the increased financial burden of HCB patients undergoing THA and ensure access to care for all patient populations.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III.

Improvements in Quality, Safety and Costs Associated with Use of Implant Registries Within a Health System

BACKGROUND

Clinical quality registries (CQRs) are intended to enhance quality, safety, and cost reduction using real-world data for a self-improving health system. Starting in 2001, Kaiser Permanente established several medical device CQRs as a quality improvement initiative. This report examines the contributions of these CQRs on improvement in health outcomes, changes in clinical practice, and cost-effectiveness over the past 20 years.

METHODS

Eight implant registries were instituted with standardized collection from the electronic health record and other institutional data sources of patient characteristics, medical comorbidities, implant attributes, procedure details, surgical techniques, and outcomes (including complications, revisions, reoperations, hospital readmissions, and other utilization measures). A rigorous quality control system is in place to improve and maintain the quality of data. Data from the Implant Registries form the basis for multiple quality improvement and patient safety initiatives to minimize variation in care, promote clinical best practices, facilitate recalls, perform benchmarking, identify patients at risk, and construct reports about individual surgeons.

RESULTS

Following the inception of the Implant Registries, there was an observed (1) reduction in opioid utilization following orthopedic procedures, (2) reduction in use of bone morphogenic protein during lumbar fusion allowing for cost savings, (3) reduction in allograft for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction and subsequent decrease in organizationwide revision rates, (4) cost savings through expansion of same-day discharge programs for joint arthroplasty, (5) increase in the use of cement fixation in the hemiarthroplasty treatment of hip fracture, and (6) organizationwide discontinuation of an endograft device associated with a higher risk for adverse outcomes following endovascular aortic aneurysm repair.

CONCLUSION

The use of Implant Registries within our health system, along with clinical leadership and organizational commitment to a learning health system, was associated with improved quality and safety outcomes and reduced costs. The exact mechanisms by which such registries affect health outcomes and costs require further study.

Patient-Reported Outcomes of Total Hip Arthroplasty at an Ambulatory Surgery Center Versus a Hospital-Based Center

INTRODUCTION

The utilization of ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) and same-day discharge (SDD) from hospital-based centers (HBCs) after total hip arthroplasty (THA) continues to increase. There remains a paucity of literature directly comparing patient-reported outcomes by surgery site. We sought to compare outcomes between patients undergoing THA at an ASC versus HBC while controlling for medical comorbidities.

METHODS

Patients undergoing primary THA with SDD (postoperative day 0) from a single HBC (1,015 patients) or stand-alone ASC (170 patients) from December 2020 to 2021 were identified. Patient demographics, comorbidities, and 90-day complications were collected. Hip Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (HOOS JR), VR-12, and procedural satisfaction scores were collected preoperatively and at 3, 6, and 12 months. Patients were matched by age and American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA). Chi-squared analysis was conducted to compare categorical variables, and a Wilcoxon rank-sum test was used for continuous variables. Linear regression models were conducted considering age, sex, and presence of comorbidities.

RESULTS

Patients undergoing THA at an ASC had markedly higher VR-12 Physical Component Scores at all time points and improved VR-12 Mental Component Scores at preoperative visit and 6 months. These patients had increased procedural satisfaction at 3 months, although there was no difference at 1 year. No notable difference was observed in 90-day complication rates between groups. After matching by age and ASA, each group had 170 patients. In the matched analysis, preoperative HOOS JR scores were markedly lower in the HBC group. However, there was no notable difference in HOOS JR scores, change in HOOS JR scores, and procedural satisfaction, at any postoperative time point.

CONCLUSIONS

No notable difference was observed in patient-reported outcomes at any time point for SDD after THA performed at an ASC or an HBC when controlling for age and comorbidities. This study suggests noninferiority of stand-alone ASCs for outpatient THA, regarding patient satisfaction and patient-reported outcomes.

Are All Patients Going Home after Total Knee Arthroplasty? A Temporal Analysis of Discharge Trends and Predictors of Nonhome Discharge (2011-2020)

Value-based orthopaedic surgery and reimbursement changes for total knee arthroplasty (TKA) are potential factors shaping arthroplasty practice nationwide. This study aimed to evaluate (1) trends in discharge disposition (home vs nonhome discharge), (2) episode-of-care outcomes for home and nonhome discharge cohorts, and (3) predictors of nonhome discharge among patients undergoing TKA from 2011 to 2020. The National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database was reviewed for all primary TKAs from 2011 to 2020. A total of 462,858 patients were identified and grouped into home discharge (n = 378,771) and nonhome discharge (n = 84,087) cohorts. The primary outcome was the annual rate of home/nonhome discharges. Secondary outcomes included trends in health care utilization parameters, readmissions, and complications. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to evaluate factors associated with nonhome discharge. Overall, 82% were discharged home, and 18% were discharged to a nonhome facility. Home discharge rates increased from 65.5% in 2011 to 94% in 2020. Nonhome discharge rates decreased from 34.5% in 2011 to 6% in 2020. Thirty-day readmissions decreased from 3.2 to 2.4% for the home discharge cohort but increased from 5.6 to 6.1% for the nonhome discharge cohort. Female sex, Asian or Black race, Hispanic ethnicity, American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA) class > II, Charlson comorbidity index scores > 0, smoking, dependent functional status, and age > 60 years were associated with higher odds of nonhome discharge. Over the last decade, there has been a major shift to home discharge after TKA. Future work is needed to further assess if perioperative interventions may have a positive effect in decreasing adverse outcomes in nonhome discharge patients.

Adapting hip arthroplasty practices during the COVID-19 pandemic: Assessing the impact of outpatient care sudden increase on early complications and clinical outcomes

INTRODUCTION

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly affected access to timely care for patients with hip osteoarthritis requiring total hip replacement (THR). This study aimed to assess the changes in surgical activity, outpatient treatment, length of stay (LOS), discharge destinations, readmission rates, clinical outcomes, and patient satisfaction before and after the pandemic at our institution.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective study encompassed patients undergoing primary THR through the direct anterior approach at a single university hospital. Data on demographic characteristics, surgical technique, perioperative management, LOS, discharge destinations, complications, and clinical outcomes were collected. Furthermore, a comparative analysis between the pre-pandemic (2019) and post-pandemic (2022) periods was conducted.

RESULTS

There was a 14% increase in surgical activity post-pandemic, with 214 patients undergoing surgery in 2019 versus 284 in 2022. The percentage of patients managed as outpatients significantly increased from 0.5% in 2019 to 29.6% in 2022 (p < 0.001). LOS decreased from 2.7 ± 1 [0-8] days to 1.4 ± 1.1 [0-12] days (p < 0.001), and the rate of discharge to rehabilitation centres declined from 21.5% to 8.8% (p < 0.001). No significant increase in the readmission rates was observed (1.4% in both periods). At two months postoperatively, the mean HHS and satisfaction rates were comparable between the two groups (p = 1 and p = 0.73, respectively).

DISCUSSION

Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, surgical activity at our institution demonstrated an increase compared to the pre-pandemic levels by expanding outpatient care, reducing LOS, and increasing rates of home discharges. Importantly, these changes did not adversely affect rehospitalization rates or early clinical outcomes.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV.

Association between same-day discharge shoulder arthroplasty and risk of adverse events in patients with American Society of Anesthesiologists classification ≥3: a cohort study

BACKGROUND

Same-day discharge for shoulder arthroplasty (SA) is well-supported in the literature; however, most studies have focused on healthier patients. Indications for same-day discharge SA have expanded to include patients with more comorbidities, but safety of same-day discharge in this population remains unknown. We sought to compare outcomes following same-day discharge vs. inpatient SA in a cohort of patients considered higher risk for adverse events, defined as an American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) classification of ≥3.

METHODS

Data from Kaiser Permanente's SA registry were utilized to conduct a retrospective cohort study. All patients with an ASA classification of ≥3 who underwent primary elective anatomic or reverse SA in a hospital from 2018 to 2020 were included. The exposure of interest was in-hospital length of stay: same-day discharge vs. ≥1-night hospital inpatient stay. The likelihood of 90-day post-discharge events, including emergency department (ED) visit, readmission, cardiac complication, venous thromboembolism, and mortality, was evaluated using propensity score-weighted logistic regression with noninferiority testing using a margin of 1.10.

RESULTS

The cohort included a total of 1814 SA patients, of whom 1005 (55.4%) had same-day discharge. In propensity score-weighted models, same-day discharge was not inferior to an inpatient stay SA regarding 90-day readmission (odds ratio [OR] = 0.64, one-sided 95% upper bound [UB] = 0.89) and overall complications (OR = 0.67, 95% UB = 1.00). We lacked evidence in support of noninferiority for 90-day ED visit (OR = 0.96, 95% UB = 1.18), cardiac event (OR = 0.68, 95% UB = 1.11), or venous thromboembolism (OR = 0.91, 95% UB = 2.15). Infections, revisions for instability, and mortality were too rare to evaluate using regression analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

In a cohort of over 1800 patients with an ASA of ≥3, we found same-day discharge SA did not increase the likelihood of ED visits, readmissions, or complications compared with an inpatient stay, and same-day discharge was not inferior to an inpatient stay with regard to readmissions and overall complications. These findings suggest that it is possible to expand indications for same-day discharge SA in the hospital setting.

Initiation of a Comprehensive Early Discharge Program at a Veterans Affairs Hospital

INTRODUCTION

Early discharge protocols have become a major surgical paradigm, but this protocol is not routinely used in the Veteran Affairs (VA) system. The primary objective was to demonstrate the feasibility of a comprehensive joint program (CJP) protocol, including same-day discharge, at a VA hospital. Secondary objectives are to determine whether an increase in postoperative complications, increased readmissions, and increased ER visits compared with previous management protocols occur.

METHODS

A retrospective review of patients undergoing primary total joint arthroplasty conducted before the initiation of CJP was compared with patients undergoing primary total joint arthroplasty conducted after the initiation of CJP. The two cohorts were subdivided further into total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and total hip arthroplasty (THA). Patients' demographics, medical comorbidities, discharge disposition, length of stay (LOS), surgery information, 30-day and 90-day postoperative complications, surgical site infections, and emergency room visits were collected and assessed with paired t -tests.

RESULTS

A total of 200 control cases (101 TKA, 99 THA) were compared with 260 cases (165 TKA, 95 THA) in the CJP group. The mean LOS reduced from 4.38 days in the control group to 0.75 days in the CJP group ( P < 0.001), with 890 total inpatient days in the control group compared with just 200 total inpatient days with the CJP group. A total of 92 patients (34.5%) in the CJP group were discharged the same day compared with 0 in the control group ( P < 0.001). In the control group, 47.8% were discharged to rehabilitation centers compared with only 4.5% in the CJP group ( P < 0.001). The 30-day complication rate was reduced with CJP (5.6% vs. 10.3% control) ( P = 0.028). ER visits did not significantly change (8.9% control vs. 9.3% CJP; P = 0.77).

CONCLUSION

Overall LOS and complication rates were reduced with the CJP, exemplifying the viability of such a protocol in the VA system. In addition, we demonstrated no increased risks accompanied with early discharge to home. This initiative can be used to reduce healthcare dollars in VA healthcare system nationally.

A Role for Outpatient Total Joint Arthroplasty During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Outpatient total joint arthroplasty (TJA) gained favor during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our objective was to critically evaluate the safety and short-term outcomes of outpatient total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA) throughout the pandemic compared with pre-pandemic given their increased use. This was a retrospective review of 941 patients who underwent elective, outpatient TKA and THA at a single institution. Patients were divided into two cohorts: pre-pandemic (N=611) and pandemic (N=330). Data points included demographics, comorbidities, failure of same calendar day discharge (SCDD), and 90-day readmissions and re-operations. The pandemic cohort was older (61.0 vs 59.0 years; P=.001) and had a higher Charlson Comorbidity Index (2 vs 1; P=.004). There were no differences between the pandemic and pre-pandemic cohorts regarding SCDD failures (23.3% vs 21.9%; P=.623) and reoperations (4.2% vs 6.2%; P=.205). The pandemic cohort had a lower readmission rate (4.8% vs 8.2%; P=.056). Overall, patients who had failure of SCDD more commonly underwent TKA than THA (63.5% vs 36.5%; P<.001), were older (63.0 vs 58.5 years; P<.001), had a higher body mass index (30.8 vs 29.9 kg/m2; P=.006) and Charlson Comorbidity Index (2 vs 1; P<.001), had an American Society of Anesthesiologists class greater than 2 (51.2% vs 31.6%; P<.001), received physical therapy later postoperatively (4.15 vs 3.12 hours; P<.001), and had a history significant for myocardial infarction (P=.025), chronic kidney disease (P=.004), or diabetes (P=.003). This study supports broadening indications for outpatient TJA because we found a shift toward older patients with more comorbidities successfully undergoing the procedure. [Orthopedics. 2023;46(5):303-309.].

Preoperative Patient Optimization: Outcomes from Elective Total Joint Arthroplasty in a Large US Healthcare System

INTRODUCTION

Patient factors are known to affect outcomes in arthroplasty surgery. A preoperative program to address modifiable factors may aid in more appropriate patient selection. We sought to assess patient selection and 90-day postoperative outcomes for total joint arthroplasty (TJA) candidates before and after implementation of a preoperative optimization protocol.

METHODS

A retrospective time-trend study using data from an integrated healthcare system's total joint replacement registry was done. The study sample consisted of patients aged 18 years or older who underwent primary elective total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA) for osteoarthritis between 2009 and 2019. Patients were divided into two cohorts: procedures performed from 2009 to 2013 ("preoptimization protocol") and those from 2015 to 2019 ("postoptimization protocol"); 2014 was excluded because an evidence-based preoperative patient optimization protocol was progressively implemented throughout the year. Patient characteristics, optimization factors, and 90-day outcomes (including emergency department [ED] visits, readmission, all-cause revision, deep infection, venous thromboembolism, and mortality) were compared between the two cohorts using the Pearson chi-square test or Wilcoxon test.

RESULTS

The study sample included 25,925 THA and 60,484 TKA. In the THA cohort, 10,364 (40.0%) and 15,561 (60.0%) were from the preoptimization and postoptimization cohorts, respectively. The postoptimization THA cohort saw lower rates of ED visits (12.1% vs. 9.4%, P < 0.001) and readmissions (5.6% vs. 3.8%, P < 0.001). In the TKA cohort, 24,054 (39.8%) and 36,430 (60.2%) were from the preoptimization and postoptimization cohorts, respectively. The postoptimization TKA cohort saw lower rates of ED visits (13.1% vs. 11.9%, P < 0.001), readmissions (5.6% vs. 3.0%, P < 0.001), all-cause revisions (0.5% vs. 0.3%, P = 0.003), venous thromboembolism (1.3% vs. 0.9%, P < 0.001), and mortality (0.3% vs. 0.2%, P = 0.011).

DISCUSSION

An evidence-based protocol to improve patient selection based on modifiable patient factors was adopted by orthopaedic surgeons in the system and utilization of the protocol before TJA was associated with fewer postoperative complications over time.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV.

Physiologic risk stratification is important to long-term mortality, complications, and readmission in thoracic endovascular aortic repair

Use of the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status classification is important for periprocedural risk stratification. However, the collective effect after adjustment for the Society for Vascular Surgery (SVS) medical comorbidity grading system on long-term all-cause mortality, complications, and discharge disposition is unknown. We examined these associations in patients after thoracic endograft placement. Data from three thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) trials through 5 years of follow-up were included. Patients with acute complicated type B dissection (n = 50), traumatic transection (n = 101), or descending thoracic aneurysm (n = 66) were analyzed. The patients were stratified into three groups according to the ASA class: I-II, III, and IV. Multivariable proportional hazards regression models were used to examine the effect of ASA class on 5-year mortality, complications, and rehospitalizations after adjustment for SVS risk score and potential confounders. The largest proportion of patients treated by TEVAR across the ASA groups (n = 217) was ASA IV (n = 97; 44.7%; P < .001), followed by ASA III (n = 83; 38.2%) and ASA I-II (n = 37; 17.1%). Among the ASA groups, the ASA I-II patients were, on average, 6 years younger than those with ASA III and 3 years older than those with ASA IV (ASA I-II: age, 54.3 ± 22.0 years; ASA III: age, 60.0 ± 19.7 years; ASA IV: age, 51.0 ± 18.4 years; P = .009). Multivariable adjusted 5-year outcome models showed that ASA class IV, independent of the SVS score, conferred an increased risk of mortality (hazard ratio [HR], 3.83; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.19-12.25; P = .0239) and complications (HR, 4.53; 95% CI, 1.69-12.13; P = .0027) but not rehospitalization (HR, 1.84; 95% CI, 0.93-3.68; P = .0817) compared with ASA class I-II. Procedural ASA class is associated with long-term outcomes among post-TEVAR patients, independent of the SVS score. The ASA class and SVS score remain important to patient counseling and postoperative outcomes beyond the index operation.

Reasons and Risk Factors for Failed Same-Day Discharge After Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

As ambulatory total knee arthroplasty (TKA) becomes increasingly common, unplanned admission after surgery presents a challenge for the health care system. Studies evaluating the reasons and risk factors for this occurrence are limited. We sought to evaluate the reasons for unplanned admission after surgery and identify risk factors associated with this occurrence.

METHODS

Patients registered in an institutional ambulatory joint arthroplasty program who underwent a TKA from 2017-2020 were retrospectively reviewed. The criteria for enrollment include candidates for unilateral TKA between the ages of 18 and 70 years, with a body mass index (BMI) of less than 35, and appropriate social and material support at home. Patients who had certain comorbidities including coronary artery disease, valvular heart disease, and opioid dependence were not eligible. A total of 274 patients who underwent TKA with planned same-day discharge (SDD) were identified in the medical record and reviewed. In this cohort, 140 patients (51.1%) were discharged on the day of surgery and 134 patients (48.9%) required a minimum 1-night admission. Demographics, comorbidities, and perioperative data were collected. Factors associated with failed SDD were identified using multivariate logistic regression.

RESULTS

The most common reasons for failed SDD were failure to meet ambulation goals (25%) and logistical issues related to a late-day case (19%). Risk factors for failed SDD include general anesthesia (odds ratio (OR) 12.60, P = .047), procedure start time after 11:00 am (OR 5.16, P < .001), highest postoperative pain score >8 (visual analogue scale, OR 5.78, P = .001). Willingness to accept a higher pain threshold before discharge (visual analogue scale 4 to 10) was associated with successful SDD (OR 3.0, P < .001). Age and American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) classification were not associated with failed SDD.

CONCLUSIONS

The most common reasons for failed SDD were related to logistical issues and postoperative mobilization. Risk factors for failed SDD involve case timing and pain control. Modifiable perioperative factors may play an important role in successful SDD after TKA.

Institution of same-day total joint replacement at an urban safety net hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic

Background

Increasingly, total hip and total knee replacements are being performed at outpatient ambulatory surgery centers. The purpose of this study was to investigate the feasibility and safety of instituting a same-day surgery program for hip and knee replacement at an urban, safety net hospital.

Methods

Retrospective review of a prospectively collected registry for all patients scheduled for same-day total joint replacement at a safety net hospital was performed. Medical records were reviewed for patient demographics, same-day hospital admissions, and 30-day emergency room/hospital admissions.

Results

131 same-day total joint replacements were identified, including 76 knees and 55 hips. Median ASA was 3, and median Charlson comorbidity score was 2. Rate of same-day surgery for total joint replacements increased from 4.5% in September 2020 to 100% in September 2021. On major patient outcomes, 3.8% of patients (n = 5) required conversion to inpatient admission. Rate of 30-Day Emergency Department (ED) visits was 13.0% (n = 17). Most common complaints included postoperative pain (n = 10), incision drainage/edema/hematoma (n = 9), and cellulitis (n = 2). 30-Day Hospital Readmissions occurred in 1.5% of patients (n = 2).

Conclusion

Same-day hip and knee replacement can be performed safely at a safety net hospital. Unlike dedicated high-volume orthopedic hospitals or outpatient surgery centers, urban safety net hospitals face a different set of challenges and must care for a wide variety of patients who do not plan for their illness and/or may not be able to pay for their care. Outpatient total joint replacement may extend total joint replacement to patients who might not have access otherwise.

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.

Evaluation of Emergency Department Visits Following Total Joint Arthroplasty: Same-Day Discharge vs Non-Same-Day Discharge

BACKGROUND

Traditionally, most efforts have focused on readmission rates while little has been reported on emergency department (ED) presentation. This study aims to analyze the difference between same-day discharge (SDD) and non-SDD primary total hip and knee arthroplasty cases to determine the rate and reasons associated with 90-day ED presentations.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed all patients who underwent primary total hip arthroplasty and total knee arthroplasty between 2011 and 2021. The patients were separated into 2 cohorts: (1) SDD and (2) required a longer length of stay. The primary outcome was an ED visit within 90 days of the index operation. Secondary outcomes included reasons for ED visits and readmission rates. Multivariable logistic regressions were performed to compare the 2 groups while accounting for significant demographic variables.

RESULTS

Of the 24,933 patients included, 1,725 (7%) were SDD and 23,208 (93%) required a longer length of stay. The overall rate of 90-day ED visits was significantly lower for patients who were SDD compared to non-SDD (1.6% vs 4.0%, P = .004). However, when stratified based on the reason for ED visit, no single cause was significant between the 2 cohorts. The most commonly reported reasons were pain (32.1% vs 26.7%, P = .064) and other non-orthopedic-related medical issues (25.0% vs 29.5%, P = .206). Among those who presented to the ED, the readmission rate did not statistically differ (25.0% vs 23.4%, P = .131).

CONCLUSION

Patients who underwent SDD were less likely to present to the ED within 90 days following their surgery compared to non-SDD. Approximately three fourths of the patients in both cohorts that visited the ED did not require readmission. Future efforts should focus on developing interventions to reduce the burden of these visits on the healthcare system.

LEVEL III EVIDENCE

Retrospective Cohort Study.

Same-Day Outpatient Lower-Extremity Joint Replacement: A Critical Analysis Review

➢ The economics of transitioning total joint arthroplasty (TJA) to standalone ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) should not be capitalized on at the expense of patient safety in the absence of established superior patient outcomes. ➢ Proper patient selection is essential to maximizing safety and avoiding complications resulting in readmission. ➢ Ambulatory TJA programs should focus on reducing complications frequently associated with delays in discharge. ➢ The transition from hospital-based TJA to ASC-based TJA has substantial financial implications for the hospital, payer, patient, and surgeon.