Optimizing orthopedic care: Insights from a comprehensive analysis of day case total knee replacement

Total knee replacement (TKR) is a well-established intervention for managing knee osteoarthritis, traditionally conducted as an inpatient procedure. The evolution of medical practices has prompted exploration into the feasibility and outcomes of day case total knee replacement. This study aims to comprehensively investigate the demographic characteristics, procedural details, and postoperative outcomes associated with day case total knee replacement, providing insights into its safety, efficacy, and patient experience. A retrospective observational design was employed, involving patients who underwent a day case total knee replacement at a tertiary care center in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Data included patient demographics, baseline characteristics, operative details, and postoperative outcomes. The Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) and Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) were used to assess outcomes. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, paired t-tests, and categorical data presentations. The study comprised eight patients undergoing day case TKR. The majority were female (87.5%), with a mean age of 59.38 years (SD = 8.26). Baseline characteristics indicated a mean BMI of 27.81 kg/m2 (SD = 4.56). Anesthesia distribution revealed 62.5% receiving spinal and 37.5% receiving general anesthesia. Postoperative outcomes demonstrated significant improvements in WOMAC and SF-36 scores at six weeks and three months. Pain and nausea/vomiting analyses revealed effective management strategies. This study provides comprehensive insights into the demographics, procedural intricacies, and short-term outcomes of day case total knee replacement. The findings suggest that day case total knee replacement is associated with favorable postoperative outcomes, supporting its feasibility and safety.