The value of inpatient rehabilitation after uncomplicated knee arthroplasty: a propensity score analysis

Shorter length of stay and significant cost savings with ambulatory surgery primary unilateral total knee arthroplasty in Asians using enhanced recovery protocols

Introduction

Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has reduced the length of stay (LOS) and cost of TKA in the Western population. Asians had been identified to be at higher odds of non-home discharge following TKA due to cultural differences. The efficacy of ERAS in TKA for Asian patients is less known. We aimed to investigate the efficacy of ERAS in reducing the LOS, transition to ambulatory surgery, improving home discharges, and reducing cost in an Asian population following TKA.

Methods

Retrospective analysis was performed on 634 TKA patients in 2017 (pre- ERAS) and 584 TKA patients who had undergone ERAS in 2022 in a tertiary hospital.

Results

Patients in 2022 (ERAS) were older (69 ± 7 vs. 68 ± 7 years old, p < 0.001) and had a higher proportion of patients with poorer function (p < 0.001). The LOS reduced from 5.4 days (95% CI:5.2-5.6) to 2.9 days (95% CI:2.7-3.2) (p < 0.001) with about 49 % of patients transitioning to ambulatory surgery and having a LOS of 1.4 days (95 %CI:1.3-1.5). The proportion of patients being discharged home in 2022 (78.9 %) was higher compared to 2017 (62.2 %) (p < 0.001). This saved the hospital 1817.4 inpatient ward bed days, which translated to S$2,124,540.60 of cost saving in a year, and up to S$2397.28 for the individual patient.

Conclusion

ERAS after TKA was able to safely achieve LOS comparable to the western population and allowed transition to ambulatory knee replacement in the Asian population. Consequently, this led to higher proportion of home discharges and achieved significant cost saving and hospital bed days.

A Smartphone Application-Based Remote Rehabilitation System for Post-Total Knee Arthroplasty Rehabilitation: A Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Remote rehabilitation after total knee arthroplasty has gradually gained popularity in recent years. This study aimed to determine whether smartphone application-based remote rehabilitation could outperform home-based rehabilitation and outpatient guidance in terms of 12-week outcomes following primary unilateral total knee arthroplasty.

METHODS

Patients who underwent primary unilateral total knee arthroplasty were recruited and randomly divided into a telerehabilitation group and a control group. A total of 100 patients were examined, with 50 each assigned to the telerehabilitation and control groups. In the telerehabilitation group, a telerehabilitation application was installed on the smartphones of the participants to allow postdischarge guidance. The primary outcomes were knee range of motion (ROM) at 12 weeks postoperatively. Secondary outcomes included the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index, Knee Society Score, The Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36), Five Times Sit-to-Stand Test (5xSST), Single-Leg Stance Test (SLST), satisfaction, rehabilitation costs, complication rate, and 90-day readmission rate. All outcomes were collected at 2, 6, and 12 weeks after surgery.

RESULTS

At 12 weeks postoperatively, the telerehabilitation patients significantly outperformed the controls in terms of knee ROM (124 ± 8.7 versus 119 ± 5.5 P = .01), SF-36 (physiological function) (61.5 ± 20.3 versus 45.5 ± 18.1 P = .000), SF-36 (role-physical) (49.3 ± 41.5 versus 27.7 ± 28.9 P = .012), SLST (13.0 ± 9.1 versus 9.1 ± 5.9 P = .026), and 5xSST (17.7 ± 4.3 versus 19.4 ± 3.5 P = .043). No significant differences were found between groups in the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index score, Knee Society Score, rehabilitation costs, 90-day readmission rate, or incidence of adverse events.

CONCLUSION

Our study showed that smartphone app-based remote rehabilitation worked better than home-based rehabilitation with outpatient guidance in terms of short-term results in ROM, SLST, and 5xSST.

Supervised versus unsupervised rehabilitation following total knee arthroplasty: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Outcomes after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) are strongly influenced by the adequacy of rehabilitation and the consequent functional recovery. The economic impact of rehabilitation it is not negligible. Inpatient rehabilitation can be 5 to 26 times more expensive than the home-based rehabilitation. This topic is extremely relevant as the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of unsupervised rehabilitation in orthopedic surgery. The aim of this review and meta-analysis is to investigate the scientific evidence regarding the comparison between supervised and unsupervised rehabilitation following TKA.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Following PRISMA guideline, a comprehensive search of PubMed, Cochrane and Scopus databases using combinations of keywords and MeSH descriptors: "total "Knee replacement," "Arthroplasty", "Rehabilitation" was performed from inception to December 2021. All relevant articles were retrieved, and their bibliographies were searched for further relevant references. Only English written randomized controlled trials comparing supervised and unsupervised rehabilitation following TKA were included in this systematic review. The outcomes considered were long-term pain, physical function, knee flexion and extension ROM, 6 minute walking test (6MWT) and timed up and go test (TUG).

RESULTS

11 studies (2.181 patients in total) were included in this systematic review. The long-term pain outcome showed no significant differences (Std. Mean Difference [SMD] = 0.00, 95 % confidence interval [CI] -0.16, 0.017) between the supervised (n = 397) and unsupervised (n = 255). Physical function showed no significant differences among the two groups (mean difference [MD] = 0.84, 95 % CI = -1.82, 3.50). Non-significant differences were also found for knee ROM flexion (mean difference [MD] = -0.46, 95 % CI = -2.95, 2.04) and for knee extension (mean difference [MD] = 0.54, 95 % CI = -0.89, 1.97). At the 52-week follow-up, the unsupervised group showed significant better results in 6MWT (mean difference [MD] = -26.10, 95 % CI = -47.62, -4.59) and in Timed up and go test (mean difference [MD] = 1.33, 95 % CI = 0.50, 2.15).

CONCLUSION

This systematic review did not show a significant clinical difference in improving pain, function, and mobility outcomes after TKA between supervised PT and unsupervised PT. Therefore, it would appear that supervised rehabilitation did not had additional benefits compared to unsupervised rehabilitation.

Rehabilitation for Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review

ABSTRACT

We sought to determine the comparative benefit and harm of rehabilitation interventions for patients who have undergone elective, unilateral total knee arthroplasty for the treatment of primary osteoarthritis. We searched PubMed, Embase, The Cochrane Register of Clinical Trials, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Scopus, and ClinicalTrials.gov from January 1, 2005, through May 3, 2021. We included randomized controlled trials and adequately adjusted nonrandomized comparative studies of rehabilitation programs reporting performance-based, patient-reported, or healthcare utilization outcomes. Three researchers extracted study data and assessed risk of bias, verified by an independent researcher. The team assessed strength of evidence. Evidence from 53 studies randomized controlled trials suggests that various rehabilitation programs after total knee arthroplasty may lead to comparable improvements in pain, range of motion, and activities of daily living. Rehabilitation in the acute phase may lead to increased strength but result in similar strength when delivered in the postacute phase. No studies reported evidence of risk of harms due to rehabilitation delivered in the acute period after total knee arthroplasty; risk of harms among various postacute rehabilitation programs seems comparable. All findings were of low strength of evidence. Evaluation of rehabilitation after total knee arthroplasty needs a systematic overhaul to sufficiently guide future practice or research including the use of standardized intervention components and core outcomes.

Pre- and postoperative physiotherapy using a digital application decreases length of stay without reducing patient outcomes following total knee arthroplasty

Introduction

Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA) for both patients and the surgical team is a journey spanning many months, rather than purely a hospital episode of care. To improve patient outcomes and reduce costs in TKA, greater emphasis should be placed on the pre- and postoperative periods as, historically, innovation has focused on the intraoperative execution of the surgery. The purpose of this study was to determine if a pre- and postoperative physiotherapy program delivered via a digital application could reduce hospital length of stay (LOS) without compromising patient outcomes.

Methods

A retrospective series of 294 patients who underwent TKA from a single-surgeon in a single-centre was examined. This included 232 patients who underwent a pre- and postoperative physiotherapist-led program delivered via a digital application and 62 patients who underwent a conventional pre- and postoperative protocol. 2:1 nearest neighbour propensity score matching was performed to establish covariate balance between the cohorts. Data collected included pre- and postoperative Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), KOOS for Joint Replacement (KOOS, JR), and acute, rehabilitation, and total LOS.

Results

No significant difference in KOOS or KOOS, JR scores was observed at 12-month follow-up. A significantly reduced rehabilitation (P = 0.014) and total LOS (P = 0.015) was observed in the patients who received the digital physiotherapy program.

Conclusions

There may be significant economic benefits to a pre- and postoperative physiotherapy program delivered via a digital application. Our results suggest that a digital physiotherapist-led patient program may reduce the need for inpatient rehabilitation services without compromising patient outcomes.

Postoperative Inpatient Rehabilitation Does Not Increase Knee Function after Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty

Inpatient rehabilitation (IR) is a common postoperative protocol after total knee replacement (TKA). Because IR is expensive and should therefore be justified, this study determined the difference in knee function one year after TKA in patients treated with IR or outpatient rehabilitation, fast-track rehabilitation (FTR) in particular, which also entails a reduced hospital length of stay. A total of 205 patients were included in this multi-center prospective cohort study. Of the patients, 104 had primary TKA at a German university hospital and received IR, while 101 had primary TKA at a Canadian university hospital and received FTR. Patients receiving IR or FTR were matched by pre-operative demographics and knee function. Oxford Knee Score (OKS), Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC), and EuroQol visual analogue scale (EQ-VAS) determined knee function one year after surgery. Patients receiving IR had a 2.8-point lower improvement in OKS (p = 0.001), a 6.7-point lower improvement in WOMAC (p = 0.063), and a 12.3-point higher improvement in EQ-VAS (p = 0.281) than patients receiving FTR. IR does not provide long-term benefits to patient recovery after primary uncomplicated TKA under the current rehabilitation regime.

Overnight joint replacement surgery: a pilot Australian study

BACKGROUND

With a stretched healthcare system and elective surgery backlog, measures to improve efficiency and decrease costs associated with surgical procedures need to be prioritized. This study compares the benefits of multi-disciplinary involvement in an enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocol-led overnight model following total hip replacement (THR) and total knee replacement (TKR).

METHODS

Patients in each of two private hospitals undergoing THR or TKR were prospectively enrolled. One hospital (Overnight) was fully committed to the ERAS protocol implementation on all levels and formed the treatment group while in the other hospital (control), patients only had the anaesthetic and operative procedure as part of the ERAS protocol but did not follow the perioperative measures of the protocol. Outcomes on hospital length of stay (LOS), inpatient rehabilitation, functional outcomes, satisfaction, adverse events and readmission rates were investigated.

RESULTS

Median LOS in the Overnight group was significantly smaller than in the control group (1 vs. 3 days, P < 0.0001). The Overnight group had lower rates of inpatient rehabilitation utilization (4% vs. 41.2%, P < 0.0001), similar improvements in functional hip and knee scores and no increased rate of adverse events or readmission. All patients in both groups were satisfied with their treatment.

CONCLUSION

Overnight THR and TKR can safely be performed in the majority of patients, with a multi-disciplinary approach protocol and involvement of all perioperative stakeholders.

Is inpatient rehabilitation a predictor of a lower incidence of persistent knee pain 3-months following total knee replacement? A retrospective, observational study

Background

Moderate to severe levels of persistent knee pain have been estimated to affect up to 25% of people 3-months or more after a total knee replacement. It is unknown whether the type of rehabilitation pathway is associated with persistent high pain after surgery. Using a prospectively followed Australian cohort who underwent total knee replacement for knee osteoarthritis, this study aimed to i) report the incidence of high-intensity knee pain (defined as a score ≤ 15 on the Oxford Knee Score pain subscale) across time and ii) identify whether referral to inpatient rehabilitation was one of the predictors of persistent pain at 3-months post-surgery.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of a large prospective study was conducted using the Oxford Knee Score pain subscale to determine if participants had high pain at 3-months, 12-months and 36-months post-surgery. Relative risks for high pain at 3-, 12- and 36-months between the type of rehabilitation pathway were determined using Poisson multivariable regression with robust standard errors. The same technique was also employed to determine potential predictors, including rehabilitation pathway, of high pain at 3 months.

Results

The incidence of high pain in all participants was 73% pre-surgery and 10, 5 and 6% at 3-, 12- and 36-months respectively following knee replacement. There was a significant interaction between time and rehabilitation pathway, suggesting that the effect of the rehabilitation pathway varied across time. The incidence of high pain at 3-months did not significantly differ between those who attended inpatient rehabilitation (11.6%) and those discharged directly home (9.5%). Multivariable Poisson regression analysis identified the pre-surgical presence of high pain, co-morbid low back pain or other lower limb problem, younger age and having a major complication within 3-months following surgery as significant predictors of persistent pain whilst discharge to inpatient rehabilitation was not.

Conclusion

A small but clinically significant minority of people continued to have high pain levels at 3-, 12- and 36-months following a primary total knee replacement for osteoarthritis. Participation in an inpatient rehabilitation program does not appear to be an important predictor of ongoing knee pain.

Trial registration

The data were collected in the Evidence-based Processes and Outcomes of Care (EPOC) study, ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01899443

Longitudinal observational study on health literacy and clinical outcomes in older adults with total knee arthroplasty in the context of inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation

Purpose

To assess health literacy (HL) of patients with total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and evaluate its impact on patient reported outcome measures (PROMs) as well as investigating outcome differences in inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation.

Methods

In this study, HL and PROMs of older patients were assessed preoperatively (T0) and after 3 (T1), 6 (T2), and 12 (T3) months. HL was assessed with the short form of the European HL Questionnaire; pain scores, functional restrictions, and activity levels with standardized PROMs.

Results

Limited HL was observed in 70.6% of patients at T0. HL improved from baseline to follow-ups (p < 0.001). There was no impact of HL on PROMs. Pain scores were higher in patients undergoing outpatient rehabilitation (p = 0.022). No differences were found between the rehabilitation settings for the other outcomes.

Conclusion

The study shows that limited HL is prevalent in patients with scheduled TKA. Rehabilitation seems to have a positive effect on increasing HL.

Geriatric home-based rehabilitation in Australia: Preliminary data from an inpatient bed-substitution model

Background

The REStORing health of acutely unwell adulTs (RESORT) is an observational longitudinal cohort, including geriatric rehabilitation inpatients aged ≥65 years admitted to a geriatrician‐led rehabilitation service at a tertiary hospital. The aim of this study is to describe a home‐based bed‐substitution rehabilitation model for geriatric inpatients, including patient phenotype, and health outcomes at preadmission, admission, discharge, and three‐month follow‐up.

Methods

A standardized Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment was performed on admission and discharge, including demographics (home situation, cognitive impairment, medical diagnoses, etc.), frailty (Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS)), mobility (patient‐reported and Functional Ambulation Classification), physical performance (Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), handgrip strength), and functional independence (Activities of Daily Living (ADL), Instrumental ADL (IADL)). Service provision data (health care staff visits, length of stay (LOS), and negative events (e.g., falls)) were extracted from medical records. Three‐month outcomes included mobility, ADL and IADL scores, institutionalization, and mortality.

Results

Ninety‐two patients were included with a mean age of 81.1 ± 7.8 years, 56.5% female. Twenty‐nine (31.5%) patients lived alone, 39 (42.4%) had cognitive impairment and the commonest geriatric rehabilitation admission reason was falls (n = 30, 32.6%). Patients received care from nurses, physicians, and a median of four (interquartile range (IQR) 3–6) allied health disciplines for a median LOS of 13.0 days (IQR 10.0–15.0). On a population level, patient mobility and functional independence worsened from preadmission to admission. CFS, SPPB, ADL, and IADL scores improved from admission to discharge, and seven (7.6%) patients fell. At three‐month follow‐up, patient‐reported mobility was comparable to preadmission baseline, but functional independence (ADL, IADL) scores worsened for 27/69 (39.1%) and 28/63 (44.4%), respectively.

Conclusions

Hospitalization‐associated decline in mobility and functional independence improved at discharge and three‐months, but was not fully reversed in the multidisciplinary home‐based geriatric rehabilitation bed‐substitution service. Future research should compare outcomes to equivalent hospital‐based geriatric rehabilitation and evaluate patient perspectives.

See related Editorial by William J. Hall in this issue.

Patient factors associated with referral to inpatient rehabilitation following knee or hip arthroplasty in a public sector cohort: A prognostic factor study

RATIONALE, AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

Inpatient rehabilitation following total knee or hip arthroplasty (TKA, THA) is resource intensive and expensive. Understanding who is referred is integral to the discourse concerning service and cost reform. This study aimed to determine patient prognostic factors associated with referral to inpatient rehabilitation following TKA or THA in a public sector setting. In this setting, surgeon or patient choice does not drive referral.

METHOD

Prognostic factor research based on secondary analysis of prospectively collected data. Consecutive people undergo elective, primary TKA, or THA at a high-volume public hospital. The outcome was referral to inpatient rehabilitation after acute care. Patient variables including sociodemographic, comorbidity, and complication details were used in multivariable logistic regression to determine the prognostic factors associated with referral.

RESULTS

Five hundred twenty people were included; 9.2% experienced the outcome. In the multivariable model, acute complications (OR 3.6, 95% CI 1.6-7.8), TKA surgery (OR 3.1, 95% CI 1.0-9.4), renal disease (OR 4.4, 95% CI 1.4-13.3), and higher body mass index (OR 1.1, 95% CI 1.0-1.2) were associated with referral; unilateral surgery (OR 0.1 (95% CI 0.01-0.2) and previous arthroplasty (OR 0.3 (95% CI 0.1-0.8) were protective. There were no significant associations found for sociodemographic factors (such as gender and residential status) in the multivariable model.

CONCLUSION

In the absence of choice, physical impairment and health factors are associated with referral to inpatient rehabilitation following TKA or THA.

Association between pre-operative anxiety and/or depression and outcomes following total hip or knee arthroplasty

PURPOSE

While elective primary total hip (THA) and knee (TKA) arthroplasty are effective procedures for addressing the symptoms associated with advanced osteoarthritis, there is evidence to suggest that patient anxiety and depression are linked to poorer outcomes following surgery.

METHODS

A secondary analysis of prospectively-collected data of people undergoing primary elective THA or TKA for osteoarthritis across 19 hospitals was performed. We assessed outcomes at 1 year post-surgery for people with and without medically treated anxiety and/or depression at the time of surgery (A/D and no-A/D). We used unadjusted and adjusted analyses to compare improvement in Oxford Hip or Knee Scores, the incidences of major post-operative complications, satisfaction and index joint improvement by A/D status.

RESULTS

15.2% (254/1669) of patients were identified with anxiety and/or depression at time of surgery. In the unadjusted analysis, the A/D group had greater mean Oxford score improvement by 2.1 points (95% CI 0.8 to 3.4, p = 0.001), increased major complications (OR 1.39, 95% CI 1.05 to 1.85, p = 0.02), were less likely to report a "much better" global improvement for index joint (OR 0.56, 95% CI 0.38 to 0.83, p = 0.003), and there was no statistically significant difference in the rate of satisfaction with the results of surgery (OR 0.64, 95% CI 0.37 to 1.10, p = 0.10). The adjusted analysis found no significant associations between A/D vs. no-A/D and any of the reported outcomes.

CONCLUSION

After adjustment for confounding variables, people with anxiety and/or depression pre-operatively, compared to those without, have similar outcomes following hip or knee arthroplasty.

What is the effect of supervised rehabilitation regime vs. self-management instruction following unicompartmental knee arthroplasty? - a pilot study in two cohorts

PURPOSE

The optimal rehabilitation strategy after a unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) is unclear. This study aims to compare the effect of transitioning from a supervised to a self-management rehabilitation regime by pilot study of patient outcomes subsequent to UKA surgery.

METHODS

Fifty consecutive patients scheduled to undergo unilateral UKA surgery at our institution between 22nd February 2016 and 18thof January 2017 were prospectively identified via local medical database and included. Performed UKAs were grouped into two cohorts, Supervised Cohort and Self-management Cohort, temporally separated by introduction of new rehabilitation. Self-management Cohort(n = 25) received an extensive inpatient rehabilitation regime along with outpatient referral to rehabilitation center. The Self-management Cohort(n = 25) were only instructed in use of crutches and free ambulation at own accord. Follow-up (F/U) was 1 year from receiving UKA. A range of outcomes were recorded, and between-cohort differences compared: knee joint range of motion, pain and functional limitations, length of stay (LOS), readmission rate, pain during activity and rest, and knee circumference.

RESULTS

Complete data was obtained for n = 45 patients. The mean between-cohort difference in ROM (range of motion) from preoperatively to discharge was 15.4 degrees (CI:5.2,25.8, p = 0.004), favoring the supervised regime, with no difference detected in any outcome at 3- or 12 months F/U. Median LOS was 1 day in both cohorts.

CONCLUSION

Transition to a simple rehabilitation regime following UKA surgery was associated with decreased ROM at discharge, which was not present at 3-month F/U. We found no other between-cohort differences for any other outcomes at 3- and 12-month F/U including functional limitations, although the study was likely underpowered for these outcomes. We encourage large-scale replication of these findings using randomized designs.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic level II.

Health literacy and clinical outcomes in patients with total knee arthroplasty in different rehabilitation settings: An exploratory prospective observational study

BACKGROUND

Limited health literacy is associated with negative clinical outcomes. Although research on health literacy has increased in recent years, there is still a lack of evidence for orthopaedic patients undergoing joint replacement and in the rehabilitation sector.

OBJECTIVES

The aims of this study were to assess health literacy of patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and to observe its course during rehabilitation. Furthermore, we aimed to investigate associations between health literacy and clinical outcomes as well as differences regarding rehabilitation settings.

METHODS

In this prospective observational study, data about (n = 92) patients' health literacy and clinical outcomes were collected. Baseline assessments were conducted preoperatively (T0) and followed-up after three (T1) and six (T2) months. Health literacy was assessed with the European Health Literacy Questionnaire, pain scores, functional restrictions and activity levels with standardised patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs). Subgroup analyses were conducted regarding inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation.

RESULTS

Out of 92 patients, 77 completed postoperative rehabilitation between T0 and T1. Health literacy improved from T0 to T1 (p < 0.001) and subsequently remained constant until T2. Although the study showed an average improvement in health literacy scores in post-discharge rehabilitation, subgroup analyses indicated that patients did not achieve higher levels of health literacy. Pain scores were higher in patients undergoing outpatient rehabilitation (p = 0.022). No differences were found in other outcomes regarding rehabilitation settings and health literacy.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on our results, there seems to be no association between health literacy and clinical outcomes. Furthermore, the results regarding health literacy over the rehabilitation period indicated a need for enhancement of educational strategies to strengthen health literacy in the context of inpatient and outpatient orthopaedic rehabilitation.

Estimation of Expenditure and Challenges Related to Rehabilitation After Knee Arthroplasty: A Hospital-Based Cross-Sectional Study

BACKGROUND

Expenditure for rehabilitation following knee arthroplasty for osteoarthritis- and rehabilitation-related challenges following discharge to home after surgery is not available in the Indian context.

OBJECTIVES

To estimate cost of rehabilitation and document challenges in following rehabilitation advices, from a patient perspective.

METHODS

We conducted a hospital-based cross-sectional study of patients visiting the orthopedic department at a tertiary care public-funded hospital in New Delhi and included those who recently (less than 4 months) underwent primary knee arthroplasty for osteoarthritis. A trained physiotherapist not involved in clinical care collected information on expenditures incurred after discharge from hospital, patient's ability to recall the advices given by the physician and challenges they experienced using a semi-structured questionnaire. We report median costs by category of direct and indirect cost and used linear regression to explore determinants of cost.

RESULTS

We interviewed 82 consecutive patients (mean age 60.8 years and 68% females) with median time since surgery of 28 days. More than half (52%) sought some support for physiotherapy. The median cost of rehabilitation was INR 18,395 (Interquartile-range 11,325-27,775). Direct medical cost contributed to 74% of total cost (32% fee for services, 21% medications and lab investigations, 21% assistive devices). Twenty percent higher costs were incurred among those undergoing bilateral knee surgery after adjusting for age, sex, income, and type of physiotherapy support sought. Challenges were related to recall of advices, not understanding the recovery process and pain management.

CONCLUSION

About half patients undergoing knee arthroplasty seek support for rehabilitation after discharge to home contributing to a major portion of expenses incurred during rehabilitation. Cost-effective support mechanism for home-based rehabilitation is required for improving patient rehabilitation experiences.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s43465-021-00405-6.

Physical Therapy Use, Costs, and Value for Latent Classes of Good vs Poor Outcome in Patients Who Catastrophize About Their Pain Prior to Knee Arthroplasty

OBJECTIVE

To examine use, costs, and value of physical therapy (PT) among subgroups.

DESIGN

We conducted an observational study of data from a randomized trial of a pain coping skills intervention. Good and poor outcome subgroups were determined based on Western Ontario and McMasters Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) Pain and Physical Function scores. The use and costs of PT care as well as changes in WOMAC Pain and Physical Function scores over 4 time periods during a 1-year follow-up were reported. We compared the number of PT visits, total PT costs, and cost per 1-unit improvement in WOMAC scores for the 2 latent subgroups.

SETTING

Five academic medical centers.

PARTICIPANTS

Patients who catastrophized about their pain prior to knee arthroplasty (N=384).

INTERVENTIONS

Pain coping skills training, arthritis education, and usual care.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The WOMAC Pain Scale was the primary outcome.

RESULTS

The value of PT was lower and the cost of PT was higher for poor vs good outcome subgroups beginning 2 months after knee arthroplasty. For example, during the 2- to 6-month period, participants in the poor outcome subgroup incurred a PT cost of $5181.22 per 1-unit improvement in WOMAC Pain compared with $437.87 per 1-unit improvement in WOMAC Pain for the good outcome subgroup (P<.001). From the 6- to 12-month period, WOMAC scores worsened for the poor outcome subgroup, indicating no benefit from PT.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients in 2 latent classes demonstrated clinically important differences in value of PT. Future research should identify rehabilitation-based interventions that reduce utilization and enhance effectiveness for patients at high risk for poor outcome.

Patient satisfaction and perception of success after total knee arthroplasty are more strongly associated with patient factors and complications than surgical or anaesthetic factors

PURPOSE

A proportion of TKA recipients following TKA are dissatisfied with their outcome. Our hypothesis is that patient satisfaction with TKA and perception of success of surgery are associated with patient comorbidities and overall health status, surgical and anaesthetic techniques as well as processes of post-operative care after TKA. The aims were to (i) measure the incidence of patient unfavourable outcomes-defined as dissatisfaction with the surgery or lack of joint-specific global improvement-1 year after TKA, and to explore the differences between these two outcomes of interest; (ii) assess the relationship between the development of these unfavourable outcomes and patient-reported knee function and overall quality of life; (iii) explore the associations between pre- and peri-operative variables and the development of these unfavourable outcomes 1 year after TKA.

METHODS

This study includes analysis of data from a prospective cohort of 1017 TKA recipients. Pre-operative patient variables, surgical and acute-care data were collected. The Oxford knee score and the global perception of improvement were used to assess satisfaction and success 365 days post-surgery.

RESULTS

From 1017 patients (56% female), mean age 68 years and BMI 32, 68 pts (7%) were dissatisfied with the outcome of surgery, 141 pts (14%) believed surgery was unsuccessful 1 year after TKA. A negative outcome was noted in 151 (15%) patients for either satisfaction or success, and 58 (6%) of patients reported neither good satisfaction nor success after surgery. Dissatisfied patients reported worse mean OKS (26.4 [SD 8.03] vs 42.3 [SD 5.21], p < 0.001) and mean EQ VAS (64.9 [SD 19.49] vs 81.8 [SD 14.38], p < 0.001) than satisfied patients. Patients who reported unsuccessful surgery also showed significantly lower mean OKS (30.9 [SD 9.29] vs 42.9 [SD 4.39], p < 0.001) and mean EQ VAS (68.2 [SD 18.61] vs 82.7 [SD 13.77], p < 0.001). Univariate analysis of predictors of unfavourable outcome post-TKA showed that financial status, obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), ASA class > 2 and not resurfacing the patella were factors associated with the development of dissatisfaction with TKA and with patient perceived unsuccessful results of TKA. Multivariable logistic regression of patient satisfaction and success of TKA showed that compensation cases (OR 26.91, p < 0.001 for dissatisfaction and OR 11.49, p = 0.001 for unsuccessful TKA), obstructive sleep apnoea (OR 2.18, p = 0.04 for dissatisfaction and OR 1.82, p = 0.04 for unsuccessful TKA), ASA grade > 2 (OR 1.83, p = 0.04 for dissatisfaction and OR 1.57, p = 0.03 for unsuccessful TKA)and the development of a complication after TKA (OR 3.4, p < 0.001 for dissatisfaction and OR 2.39, p < 0.001 for unsuccessful TKA) were associated with the development of a negative outcome in both groups. Patella preservation (OR 1.96, p = 0.03) was associated with dissatisfaction, whereas the use of cruciate retaining femoral prosthesis was associated with less successful results of TKA (OR 1.78, p = 0.009).

CONCLUSIONS

An unfavourable outcome occurs in approximately 7-15% of patients following TKA. The incidence varies with how an unfavourable result is defined and many factors are associated with this outcome though prosthetic design or patella resurfacing do not appear to be important.

Improving Patient Outcomes Following Total Knee Arthroplasty: Identifying Rehabilitation Pathways Based on Modifiable Psychological Risk and Resilience Factors

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a commonly implemented elective surgical treatment for end-stage osteoarthritis of the knee, demonstrating high success rates when assessed by objective medical outcomes. However, a considerable proportion of TKA patients report significant dissatisfaction postoperatively, related to enduring pain, functional limitations, and diminished quality of life. In this conceptual analysis, we highlight the importance of assessing patient-centered outcomes routinely in clinical practice, as these measures provide important information regarding whether surgery and postoperative rehabilitation interventions have effectively remediated patients’ real-world “quality of life” experiences. We propose a novel precision medicine approach to improving patient-centered TKA outcomes through the development of a multivariate machine-learning model. The primary aim of this model is to predict individual postoperative recovery trajectories. Uniquely, this model will be developed using an interdisciplinary methodology involving non-linear analysis of the unique contributions of a range of preoperative risk and resilience factors to patient-centered TKA outcomes. Of particular importance to the model’s predictive power is the inclusion of a comprehensive assessment of modifiable psychological risk and resilience factors that have demonstrated relationships with TKA and other conditions in some studies. Despite the potential for patient psychological factors to limit recovery, they are typically not routinely assessed preoperatively in this patient group, and thus can be overlooked in rehabilitative referral and intervention decision-making. This represents a research-to-practice gap that may contribute to adverse patient-centered outcomes. Incorporating psychological risk and resilience factors into a multivariate prediction model could improve the detection of patients at risk of sub-optimal outcomes following TKA. This could provide surgeons and rehabilitation providers with a simplified tool to inform postoperative referral and intervention decision-making related to a range of interdisciplinary domains outside their usual purview. The proposed approach could facilitate the development and provision of more targeted rehabilitative interventions on the basis of identified individual needs. The roles of several modifiable psychological risk and resilience factors in recovery are summarized, and intervention options are briefly presented. While focusing on rehabilitation following TKA, we advocate for the broader utilization of multivariate prediction models to inform individually tailored interventions targeting a range of health conditions.

Discharge destination and patient-reported outcomes after inpatient treatment for isolated lower limb fractures

OBJECTIVES

To examine the association between discharge destination (home or inpatient rehabilitation) for adult patients treated in hospital for isolated lower limb fractures and patient-reported outcomes.

DESIGN

Review of prospectively collected Victorian Orthopaedic Trauma Outcomes Registry (VOTOR) data.

SETTING, PARTICIPANTS

Adults (18-64 years old) treated for isolated lower limb fractures at four Melbourne trauma hospitals that contribute data to the VOTOR, 1 March 2007 - 31 March 2016.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Return to work and functional recovery (assessed with the extended Glasgow Outcomes Scale, GOS-E); propensity score analysis of association between discharge destination and outcome.

RESULTS

Of 7961 eligible patients, 1432 (18%) were discharged to inpatient rehabilitation, and 6775 (85%) were followed up 12 months after their injuries. After propensity score adjustment, the odds of better functional recovery were 56% lower for patients discharged to inpatient rehabilitation than for those discharged directly home (odds ratio, 0.44; 95% CI, 0.37-0.51); for the 5057 people working before their accident, the odds of return to work were reduced by 66% (odds ratio, 0.34; 95% CI, 0.26-0.46). Propensity score analysis improved matching of the discharge destination groups, but imbalances in funding source remained for both outcome analyses, and for also for site and cause of injury in the GOS-E analysis (standardised differences, 10-16%).

CONCLUSIONS

Discharge to inpatient rehabilitation after treatment for isolated lower limb fractures was associated with poorer outcomes than discharge home. Factors that remained unbalanced after propensity score analysis could be assessed in controlled trials.

Rapid recovery following hip and knee arthroplasty using local infiltration analgesia: length of stay, rehabilitation protocol and cost savings

Background

We implemented local infiltration analgesia (LIA) as a technique of providing post‐operative pain management and early mobilization after arthroplasty surgery and have progressively found patients able to go home earlier. This study compares the national data on hip and knee arthroplasty provided by the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons and Medibank Private with our outcomes using LIA and rapid recovery.

Methods

Prospective study of one surgeon including 200 knees, and 165 hips in the two years till June 2016. Variables included in comparison to the two groups were: length of stay, percentage of patients transferred to rehabilitation or intensive care unit (ICU), readmitted within 30 days and average separation cost.

Results

Hip replacement median length of stay in our series was two nights versus five nights, inpatient rehabilitation 7% versus 36%, ICU admission zero versus 4%, and readmissions 3.9% versus 6.0%, the average hospital separation cost in our series was $17 813 versus $26 734. Knee replacement median length of stay in our study was one night versus five nights, ICU 0.5% versus 3%, rehabilitation 4.5% versus 43%, and readmission 6% versus 7%, the average hospital separation cost in our group was $16 437 versus $27 505.

Conclusion

The comprehensive approach of LIA and rapid recovery enables patients to have shorter hospitalization, lower rehabilitation incidence and a resultant reduction in health expenditure.

Establishing a patient centered, outpatient total joint home recovery program within an integrated healthcare system

Outpatient total joint home recovery (HR) is a rapidly growing initiative being developed and employed at high volume orthopedic centers. Minimally invasive surgery, improved pain control and home health services have made HR possible. Multidisciplinary teams with members ranging from surgeons and anesthesiologists to hospital administrators, physical therapists, nurses and research analysts are necessary for success. Eligibility criteria for outpatient total joint arthroplasty will vary between medical centers. Surgeon preference in addition to medical comorbidities, social support, preoperative patient mobility and safety of the HR location are all factors to consider when selecting patients for outpatient total joint HR. As additional knowledge is gained, the next steps will be to establish 'best practices' and speciality society-endorsed guidelines for patients undergoing outpatient total joint arthroplasty.

Rehabilitation protocols following total knee arthroplasty: a review of study designs and outcome measures

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is among the most common elective procedures performed worldwide. Recent efforts have been made to significantly improve patient outcomes, specifically with postoperative rehabilitation. Despite the many rehabilitation modalities available, the optimal rehabilitation strategy has yet to be determined. Therefore, this systematic review focuses on evaluating existing postoperative rehabilitation protocols. Specifically, this review analyses the study designs, rehabilitation methods, and outcome measures of postoperative rehabilitation protocols for TKA recipients in the past five years. The PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases were queried for studies evaluating rehabilitation protocols following primary TKA. Of the 11,013 studies identified within the last five years, 70 met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. After assessing for relevance and removing duplicates, a final count of 20 studies remained for analysis. Level-of-evidence was determined by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) classification system. Our findings demonstrated that continuous passive motion and inpatient rehabilitation may not provide additional benefit to the patient or healthcare system. However, early rehabilitation, telerehabilitation, outpatient therapy, high intensity, and high velocity exercise may be successful forms of rehabilitation. Additionally, weight-bearing biofeedback, neuromuscular electrical stimulation, and balance control appear to be beneficial adjuncts to conventional rehabilitation. Postoperative rehabilitation following TKA facilitates patient recovery and improves quality of life. This systematic review analyzed the existing rehabilitation protocols from the past five years. Some studies did not accurately describe the conventional rehabilitation protocols, the duration of therapy sessions, and the timing of these sessions. As such, future studies should explicitly describe their methodology. This will allow high-quality assessments and the conception of standardized protocols.

Advanced Age Is Not a Barrier to Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Detailed Analysis of Outcomes and Complications in an Elderly Cohort Compared With Average Age Total Knee Arthroplasty Patients

BACKGROUND

Life expectancy and higher complication rates have made the routine use of total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in elderly patients disputed by some authors. The purpose of this study was to assess patient and implant survivorship, complication and revision rates, and patient-reported outcomes (PROMS) in a cohort of patients aged above 80 years undergoing TKA. A comparison with a propensity matched cohort of patients of average age within our database for TKA was performed.

METHODS

A retrospective review of prospectively collected data identified 644 patients over the age of 80 years undergoing a TKA within a 14-year period. After calculating the average age of all TKA patients within the reviewed database, a cohort deemed average age was created within 1 standard deviation of the average age and matched using the following criteria: gender, surgeon, diagnosis, procedure type, and year. The primary outcomes were survivorship of the implant and the patient. The secondary outcomes were complications, transfusion rates, discharge destination, and PROMS.

RESULTS

The revision rate was low for both groups (P = .051). Implant survivorship at 10 years was similar (P = .07). Mortality rate was higher in the elderly (P < .001). General complication rate was higher in the elderly (P = .031). Surgical complications rates were similar (P = .702). The PROMS at final follow-up were 4% lower in the elderly (P < .001).

CONCLUSION

TKA in the elderly is a safe procedure. With measures minimizing the perioperative complications and blood loss, the outcome can be expected to be similar to patients of average age. The projected implant and patient survivorship in the elderly cohort is long enough to suggest that TKA in the elderly could have a high impact on remaining quality of life. Level III retrospective study.

The Efficacy and Safety of Inpatient Rehabilitation Compared With Home Discharge After Hip or Knee Arthroplasty: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Total hip and knee arthroplasties (THKAs) are successful procedures in managing end-stage arthritis when nonoperative treatments fail. The immediate postoperative period is an important time for the body to recuperate and rehabilitate. Studies have shown that early intensive rehabilitation can enhance recovery. Rehabilitation can be provided as inpatient rehabilitation (IR) or discharge with home rehabilitation. These options have been studied, but literature on the efficacy and safety of IR compared to home discharge is scarce, and evidence is not well established. This meta-analysis aims to compare the efficacy and safety of IR to home discharge with rehabilitation after THKA.

METHODS

A multidatabase search was performed according to PRISMA guidelines. Data from studies assessing the efficacy and safety of IR and home as discharge destinations after THKA were extracted and analyzed.

RESULTS

Fifteen studies were included, consisting of 37,411 IR patients and 172,219 home discharge patients. These studies had heterogeneous reporting methods, with some conflicting results. There was no clinically significant difference in clinical outcomes between the groups. Readmission was nearly 5 times (odds ratio = 4.87, 95% confidence interval = 3.24-7.33, P < .001) and periprosthetic complications nearly 3 times (odds ratio = 2.82, 95% confidence interval: 1.54-5.24, P < .001) higher in IR patients than those discharged home after THKA.

CONCLUSION

Although IR is associated with higher risks of complications and readmissions, this may be because of patient selection bias in the clinical setting. Following THKA, it is safe to discharge patients to home with rehabilitation whenever possible.

EVIDENCE LEVEL

Level II, Meta-analysis of heterogeneous studies.

Variation in rehabilitation setting after uncomplicated total knee or hip arthroplasty: a call for evidence-based guidelines

Background

High-level evidence consistently indicates that resource-intensive facility-based rehabilitation does not provide better recovery compared to home programs for uncomplicated knee or hip arthroplasty patients and, therefore, could be reserved for those most impaired. This study aimed to determine if rehabilitation setting aligns with evidence regardless of insurance status.

Methods

Sub-study within a national, prospective study involving 19 Australian high-volume public and private arthroplasty centres. Individuals undergoing primary arthroplasty for osteoarthritis participated. The main outcome was the proportion participating in each rehabilitation setting, obtained via chart review and participant telephone follow-up at 35 and 90 days post-surgery, categorised as ‘facility-based’ (inpatient rehabilitation and/or ≥ four outpatient-based sessions, including day-hospital) or ‘home-based’ (domiciliary, monitored or unmonitored home program only). We compared characteristics of the study cohort and rehabilitation setting by insurance status (public or private) using parametric and non-parametric tests, analysing the knee and hip cohorts separately.

Results

After excluding ineligible participants (bilateral surgeries, self-funded insurance, participation in a concurrent rehabilitation trial, experience of a major acute complication potentially affecting their rehabilitation pathway), 1334 eligible participants remained. Complete data were available for 1302 (97%) [Knee: n = 610, mean age 68.7 (8.5) yr., 51.1% female; Hip: n = 692, mean age 65.5 (10.4) yr., 48.9% female]; 26% (158/610) of knee and 61% (423/692) of hip participants participated predominantly in home-based programs. A greater proportion of public recipients were obese and had greater pre-operative joint impairment, but participated more commonly in home programs [(Knee: 32.9% (79/240) vs 21.4% (79/370) (P = 0.001); Hip: 71.0% (176/248) vs 55.6% (247/444) (P <  0.001)], less commonly in inpatient rehabilitation [Knee: 7.5% (18/240) vs 56.0% (207/370) P (< 0.001); Hip: 4.4% (11/248) vs 33.1% (147/444) (P <  0.001], and had fewer outpatient treatments [Knee: median (IQR) 6 (3) vs 8 (6) (P < 0.001); Hip: 6 (4) vs 8 (6) (P < 0.001)].

Conclusions

Facility-based programs remain the norm for most knee and many hip arthroplasty recipients with insurance status being a major determinant of care. Development and implementation of evidence-based guidelines may help resolve the evidence-practice gap, addressing unwarranted practice variation across the insurance sectors.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12891-019-2570-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Assessment of Outcomes of Inpatient or Clinic-Based vs Home-Based Rehabilitation After Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

IMPORTANCE

Recent publication of the largest trials to date investigating rehabilitation after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) necessitate an updated evidence review.

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether inpatient or clinic-based rehabilitation is associated with superior function and pain outcomes after TKA compared with any home-based program.

DATA SOURCES

MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, and PubMed were searched from inception to November 5, 2018. Search terms included knee arthroplasty, randomized controlled trial, physiotherapy, and rehabilitation.

STUDY SELECTION

Published randomized clinical trials of adults who underwent primary unilateral TKA and commenced rehabilitation within 6 postoperative weeks in which those receiving postacute inpatient or clinic-based rehabilitation were compared with those receiving a home-based program.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS

Two reviewers extracted data independently and assessed data quality and validity according to the PRISMA guidelines. Data were pooled using a random-effects model. Data were analyzed from June 1, 2015, through June 4, 2018.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Primary outcomes were mobility (6-minute walk test [6MWT]) and patient-reported pain and function (Oxford knee score [OKS] or Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index) reported at 10 to 12 postoperative weeks. The GRADE assessment (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation) was applied to the primary outcomes.

RESULTS

Five unique studies involving 752 unique participants (451 [60%] female; mean [SD] age, 68.3 [8.5] years) compared clinic- and home-based rehabilitation, and 1 study involving 165 participants (112 [68%] female; mean [SD] age, 66.9 [8.0] years) compared inpatient and home-based rehabilitation. Low-quality evidence showed no clinically important difference between clinic- and home-based programs for mobility at 10 weeks (6MWT favoring home program; mean difference [MD], -11.89 m [95% CI, -35.94 to 12.16 m]) and 52 weeks (6MWT favoring home program; MD, -25.37 m [95% CI, -47.41 to -3.32 m]). Moderate-quality evidence showed no clinically important difference between clinic- and home-based programs for patient-reported pain and function at 10 weeks (OKS MD, -0.15 [95% CI, -0.35 to 0.05]) and 52 weeks (OKS MD, 0.10 [95% CI, -0.14 to 0.34]).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Based on low- to moderate-quality evidence, no superiority of clinic-based or inpatient programs compared with home-based programs was found in the early subacute period after TKA. This evidence suggests that home-based rehabilitation is an appropriate first line of therapy after uncomplicated TKA for patients with adequate social supports.

The impact of older age on patient outcomes following primary total knee arthroplasty

Aims

As the population ages, there is projected to be an increase in the level of demand for total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in octogenarians. We aimed to explore whether those aged ≥ 80 years achieved similar improvements in physical function to younger patients while also comparing the rates of length of stay (LOS), discharge to rehabilitation, postoperative complications, and mortality following TKA in older and younger patients.

Patients and Methods

Patients from one institution who underwent primary elective TKA between 1 January 2006 and 31 December 2014 were dichotomized into those ≥ 80 years old (n = 359) and those < 80 years old (n = 2479) for comparison. Multivariable regression was used to compare the physical status component of the 12-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-12), LOS, discharge to rehabilitation, complications, and mortality between the two groups.

Results

Both age groups demonstrated a clinically meaningful improvement in their self-reported physical health relative to their baseline with no clinically relevant difference noted between them. Being ≥ 80 years old was associated with a 0.58-day increase in LOS and older patients were more likely to be discharged to rehabilitation (odds ratio (OR) 3.06, p < 0.001). Medical complications and mortality were higher in elderly patients (OR 1.92 for complications, p < 0.001; hazard ratio 3.40 for death, p < 0.001). There was no statistically significant association between age group and experiencing a postoperative surgical or wound-related complication.

Conclusion

Those aged over 80 years achieved a statistically significant lower median SF-12 physical score than the younger group, after adjusting for the preoperative score, but this difference of 4.46 was not considered to be clinically meaningful. However, clinicians should be aware that the elderly are at a higher risk of experiencing longer hospital stays, postoperative medical complications, and mortality. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2018;100-B:1463–70.

The effectiveness of inpatient rehabilitation after uncomplicated total hip arthroplasty: a propensity score matched cohort

Background

Inpatient rehabilitation is an expensive option following total hip arthroplasty (THA). We aimed to determine if THA patients who receive inpatient rehabilitation report better hip and quality of life scores post-surgery compared to those discharged directly home.

Methods

Prospective, propensity score matched cohort involving 12 private hospitals across five Australian States. Patients undergoing THA secondary to osteoarthritis were included. Those receiving inpatient rehabilitation for reasons other than choice or who experienced significant health events within 90-days post-surgery were excluded. Comparisons were made between those who did and did not receive inpatient rehabilitation for patient-reported hip pain and function (Oxford Hip Score, OHS) and ‘today’ health rating (EuroQol 0–100 scale). Rehabilitation provider charges were also estimated and compared.

Results

Two hundred forty-six patients (123 pairs, mean age 67 (10) yr., 66% female) were matched on 19 covariates for their propensity to receive inpatient rehabilitation. No statistically nor clinically significant between-group differences were observed [OHS median difference (IQR): 0 (− 3, 3), P = 0.60; 0 (− 1 to 1), P = 0.91, at 90 and 365-days, respectively; EuroQol scale median difference 0 (− 10, 12), P = 0.24; 0 (− 10, 10), P = 0.49; 5 (− 10, 15), P = 0.09, at 35-, 90- and 365-days, respectively]. Median rehabilitation provider charges were 10-fold higher for those who received inpatient rehabilitation [median difference $7582 (5649, 10,249), P <  0.001]. Sensitivity analyses corroborated the results of the primary analyses.

Conclusion

Utilization of inpatient rehabilitation pathways following THA appears to be low value healthcare. Sustainability of inpatient rehabilitation models may be enhanced if inpatient rehabilitation is reserved for those most impaired or who have limited social supports.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01899443.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12891-018-2134-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Participation in Regular Physical Activity After Total Knee or Hip Arthroplasty for Osteoarthritis: Prevalence, Associated Factors, and Type

OBJECTIVE

To describe the rates of participation in regular physical activity presurgery and at 3 years follow-up after knee or hip arthroplasty, and to describe factors associated with participation postsurgery and types of activity undertaken.

METHODS

A previously acquired multicenter, prospective cohort of knee or hip arthroplasty recipients was followed up for 3 years postsurgery. Regular participation in physical activity was defined as participation in physical activity ≥1 time/week, excluding incidental activities. Participants were interviewed about current participation as well as participation in the year presurgery. Joint-specific and health-related quality-of-life scores and information on experience of major complications were obtained. Information about comorbidity and body weight were updated. Factors associated with 3-year physical activity participation were determined using multivariable logistic regression modeling.

RESULTS

In total, 73.4% of the eligible cohort (1,289 of 1,757) were followed up (718 patients with total knee arthroplasty, and 571 patients with total hip arthroplasty). Participation profiles were similar regardless of the joint replaced. Participation in physical activity increased postsurgery in the combined cohort (from 45.2% to 63.5%; P < 0.001). Participation at 3 years was associated with participation presurgery (P < 0.0001), better 3-year quality of life (P < 0.001), younger age (P = 0.002), better 3-year joint scores (P = 0.01), >1 lifetime arthroplasty (P = 0.02), and higher education level (P = 0.04). Low-impact and nonambulatory activities significantly increased postsurgery with no change in high-impact activities.

CONCLUSION

Participation rates increased postsurgery when recovery was stable, but approximately one-third of arthroplasty recipients did not engage in physical activity at least once per week. Because participation is associated with habitual activity presurgery, a potential role for behavior change interventions is suggested. The increase in nonambulatory activities indicates that current devices measuring ambulatory activity alone are inadequate for capturing physical activity.

Who Goes to Inpatient Rehabilitation or Skilled Nursing Facilities Unexpectedly Following Total Knee Arthroplasty?

BACKGROUND

Inpatient rehabilitation facilities (IRFs) and skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) represent a significant portion of post-operative expenses of bundled payments for total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Although many surgeons no longer routinely send patients to IRFs or SNFs, some patients are unable to be discharged directly home. This study identified patient factors for discharge to post-acute care facilities with an institutional protocol of discharging TKA patients home.

METHODS

A retrospective review of patients undergoing primary unilateral TKA at a single institution from 2012 to 2017 was performed. All surgeons discharged patients home as a routine protocol. An electronic query followed by manual review identified discharge disposition, demographic factors, co-morbidities, and other patient factors. In total, 2281 patients were identified, with 9.6% discharged to SNFs or IRFs and 90.4% discharged home. Univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted to create 2 predictive models for patient discharge: pre-operative visit and hospital course.

RESULTS

Among 43 variables studied, 6 were found to be significant pre-operative risk factors for a discharge disposition other than home. In descending order, age 75 or greater, female, non-Caucasian race, Medicare status, history of depression, and Charlson Comorbidity Index were predictors for patients going to IRFs. In addition, any in-hospital complications led to a higher likelihood of being discharged to IRFs and SNFs. Both models had excellent predictive assessments with area under curve values of 0.79 and 0.80 for pre-operative visit and hospital course.

CONCLUSION

This study identifies pre-operative and in-hospital factors that predispose patients to non-routine discharges, which allow surgeons to better predict patient post-operative disposition.