Is Physical Therapy Clearance Before Arthroplasty Home Discharge Necessary?

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND, BALTIMORE · May 10, 2023

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is exploring whether patients can safely go home on the same day after undergoing total joint arthroplasty (TJA), which is surgery to replace a damaged joint. Traditionally, patients need to complete physical therapy (PT) sessions before being discharged, but this can delay their discharge, especially for those who have surgery later in the day. By allowing patients to leave without waiting for PT clearance, the trial aims to improve hospital efficiency and reduce costs while ensuring patient safety.

To participate in this study, you must be 18 years or older, have surgery for a new hip or knee joint replacement, and be able to go home the same day with someone to help you for a week. Patients will receive gait training (walking practice) right before surgery and will be helped by specially trained nurses after the operation to ensure they can walk safely before heading home. The researchers will monitor participants for any falls or hospital visits in the following months to ensure this approach is safe and effective.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • are 18 years of age or older
• • undergo primary THA or TKA
• • are eligible for same-day home discharge (friends or family available to stay at home with the patient for one week postoperatively and medically stable for discharge from PACU per anesthesia).
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • 90 years of age or older
• • have sleep apnea (not eligible for same-day discharge)
• • require overnight stay for any reason
• • undergo revision THA or TKA.