Outpatient Joint Replacements

Video 1: Private – Outpatient Joint Replacements at Olympia Orthopaedic Associates | Dr. Stephen Snow
 
Video 2: Same Day Total Joint Replacement
Dr. Agtarap, who specializes in ligament reconstruction and joint replacement at our facility, discusses how we’ve advanced knee replacement surgery to the next level of outpatient care. For the last three years, we have developed a successful outpatient program, particularly focused on joint replacement. 
 
What makes our program different and exciting is that it is not just an outpatient program performed in a hospital setting; it is done at our specialized orthopedic surgery center. This facility is dedicated to these procedures, providing a unique environment for patients undergoing joint replacement. 
 
We have performed several hundred replacements over these three years. Many patients have experienced both hospital-based joint replacement and our specialized outpatient facility. Some who initially had surgery at the hospital later returned to us for a second procedure. The feedback we receive is overwhelmingly positive—they find the experience relaxing, appreciate the care they receive, and are satisfied with their outcomes. Patients can recover in their own homes, sleeping in their beds the first night after surgery. This approach excites our patients about the process. 
 
Video 3: Who is a Candidate for Outpatient Knee Replacement at Olympia Orthopaedic Associates?
When discussing outpatient joint replacement with patients, several factors are considered. The primary factor is the patient’s underlying health. We prefer to offer outpatient procedures to healthy patients who can mobilize and return home safely, even if they have mild conditions like diabetes or are overweight. We can often work around these issues. 
 
Additionally, the patient’s support system is crucial. The patient must be mobile and have help at home. They need to be motivated and ready to get up and moving. If they meet these criteria, they are likely to be as excited about this process as we are to perform it for them. 
 
Video 4: The Advantages of Outpatient Joint Replacement at Olympia Orthopaedic Associates
When discussing the option of outpatient knee replacement with a patient, it is important to highlight several advantages. One of the biggest benefits is cost. Performing the surgery as an outpatient procedure requires fewer resources and a shorter stay, which results in cost savings for the healthcare system. 
 
Another significant advantage is being out of the hospital environment. Hospitals are typically filled with patients with active diseases, and we prefer to treat healthier patients in a setting that reflects their health status. Outpatient joint replacement allows patients to recover faster, get home the same day, and sleep in their own bed. Over the long term, they can benefit greatly from this outpatient approach. 
 
Video 5: Dr. Brodie Wood Discusses Outpatient Joint Replacements and Life After Surgery 
I joined Olympia Orthopaedic Associates in 1994 and have been practicing here for 24 years. A patient’s first visit typically involves taking X-rays of the affected hip or knee, assessing motion loss, and discussing how these issues impact their lifestyle. 
 
For outpatient surgery, patients are seen preoperatively by a physical therapist for “prehab,” which educates them on what to expect following surgery. On the day of surgery, patients arrive about an hour before the procedure, receive an IV, and meet with the nurse. The surgery itself usually takes about 35 minutes. After surgery, patients are up and walking, bearing full weight within an hour. At our outpatient surgery center, most patients leave for home within three to four hours. 
 
For both total hips and knees, I prescribe physical therapy three days a week for four to six weeks. However, once patients reach a level of competence, they can continue these exercises at a home or local gym. Common questions I receive include, “What won’t I be able to do after surgery?” The answer is that you’ll be able to do almost everything. While I discourage running on pavement for exercise, patients can run to catch a cab or a dog. Many patients have summited Mount Rainier, completed the Seattle to Portland bike race, or returned to snowboarding and skiing. 
 
Another frequent question is, “Am I too young or too old for surgery?” My answer is that the right time for surgery is when your quality of life is significantly impaired due to your condition. For example, my oldest patient was 103 years old and lived independently for six more years after surgery, passing away at 109. 
 
The feedback we receive often highlights how helpful Olympia Orthopaedics is throughout the process. Many patients mention that my enthusiasm for their recovery helped them feel safe, comfortable, and hopeful for their future. 
 
Video 6: Preparing for Outpatient Joint Replacement 
My name is Becky, and I am a nurse navigator at Olympia Orthopaedic Associates. I am a resource for patients going through our outpatient total joint program, providing education and support before and after surgery. 
 
The preparation process for an outpatient total joint replacement involves several educational steps. One of these is “prehab,” where patients meet with a physical therapist. During this visit, the therapist assesses the patient’s home situation to ensure it is safe for recovery right after surgery. They also educate the patient on the exercise program they will follow, the number of physical therapy visits needed after surgery, and other considerations like when they can drive again. 
 
Additionally, we offer an outpatient joint class where we cover important nursing information, such as pain management, medications, and equipment needs. This class focuses on postoperative care and how caregivers can support patients at home following surgery.