Outpatient vs. Inpatient Hip Arthroplasty: A Matched Case-Control Study on a 90-Day Complication Rate and 2-Year Patient-Reported Outcomes
Authors: Rosinsky PJ, Chen SL, Yelton MJ, Lall AC, Maldonado DR, Shapira J, Meghpara MB, Domb BG
DOI: 10.1186/s13018-020-01871-8
Background
The feasibility and safety of outpatient total hip arthroplasty (oTHA) compared with traditional inpatient THA (iTHA) require assessment, particularly regarding complications and long-term outcomes.
Methods
A matched case-control study comparing 100 oTHA patients with 100 iTHA patients, matched for age, sex, and BMI, assessing 2-year functional outcomes, pain, and complications.
Key Findings
- Outpatient THA patients had better functional scores (mHHS, HHS) and less pain at 2 years.
- Hospital stays were significantly shorter for outpatient surgery (6.8 vs. 43.2 hours).
- No significant differences in 90-day complications, emergency visits, or readmissions.
Conclusions
Outpatient THA is safe and may provide superior functional outcomes and faster recovery compared to inpatient THA, without increasing adverse events.
What Does This Mean for Providers?
Outpatient THA is a viable option for appropriately selected patients and can enhance recovery and patient satisfaction without added risk. Careful patient selection, perioperative planning, and postoperative protocols remain essential for optimizing outcomes.