Frequently asked questions
- If you have pain in your joints that lasts for more than 4 - 6 weeks and it does not go away on its own
- Swelling, soreness, or bruising that does not respond to rest, ice, elevation, and OTC pain medications
- A limited range of motion, including difficulty bending your knees or walking
- Inability to stand or feeling unstable or off-balance while walking, sitting, or climbing
- Difficulty performing your daily routines
There are many non-surgical options available to help you manage your joint pain and you should explore them with your doctor before you opt for surgery. However, if you have tried non-surgical options and your quality of life is significantly impacted by pain, it may be time to consider a joint replacement. Click the link below to learn more about non-surgical pain management options.
Outpatient joint replacement surgery, also called, "rapid-recovery joint replacement" is a procedure that allows individuals to return home on the same day as surgery. Newer techniques in joint replacement surgery are more minimally invasive than older techniques and today's pain management options are better. This allows the patient a faster recovery and the convenience of being at home.
Outpatient joint surgery is a safe option for most people. Your surgeon will review your medical history with you to make sure it's the right option for you. You will need the support of a family member or friend at home for the first overnight after you are discharged.
Although the majority of joint replacement surgeries are successful, there are risks of infection, blood clots, and nerve injury.
Patients who undergo outpatient joint replacement surgery may have lower complication rates than those who stay in the hospital.
Orthopaedic surgeons are aware of the risk factors that increase the chances of complications. Your primary care physician and surgeon will tailor a plan to your specific needs in order to minimize the risks as much as possible. This may include steps for you to take such as losing weight, smoking cessation, or managing diabetes prior to surgery.
Preventing Blood Clots After Orthopaedic Surgery
Preventing Infection After Joint Replacement
Most joint replacement surgeries take 1 - 2 hours.
Outpatient joint replacement surgeries are scheduled daily. After a 1 - 2 hour surgery, you will be moved into a recovery room while you come out of the anesthesia. Our excellent staff will make sure you are stable and the pain is managed. Once you are alert and the team is confident that you are ready, you will be assisted to get up and walk. You will work with our team until you are confident to go home later the same day.
The prosthetic parts may be fixed with bone cement or native bone healing, which allows the bone to grow right into the prosthetic parts.
Knee & hip replacement failure rates vary but are generally between 0.5 - 1% per year. In other words, after 20 years, there may be as little as 10% chance of failure or 90% chance that your prosthetic is still functioning properly. Factors that influence the lifespan of the implant are the patient's age, activity level, and overall health.
The amount of pain varies by patient but it is sufficiently low to allow you to return home. When you awaken from surgery, nursing staff can assist with pain control. Numbing medication will provide relief for the first 2 - 3 days. At home, medications, ice, and compression stockings can be used to control pain.
It is likely that it will. Expect some delay in security and allow extra time when traveling as needed.
Yes, many patients with metal allergies can still enjoy successful joint replacements. It may be necessary to better understand what specific allergies you have. Discuss these concerns with your provider.
Most insurance plans are accepted.
For a detailed list of accepted plans and other OrthoCincy FAQs, please visit the OrthoCincy website.
