Preoperative Joints Education Class Decreases Length of Stay after Total Knee Arthroplasty

Background Preoperative education programs are increasingly recognized for their role in improving outcomes following total knee arthroplasty (TKA). This study examines the impact of such programs on postoperative outcomes, including length of stay, discharge disposition, and complication rates in a large, urban hospital setting. Methods This retrospective cohort study analyzed primary elective TKAs performed between 2014 and 2020. Postoperative outcomes between patients who attended a preoperative joints education class and those who did not, using univariate and multivariate analyses to assess the impact of preoperative education on length of stay, discharge disposition, and postoperative complications. Postoperative complications collected included deep venous thrombosis/pulmonary embolism, mortality, periprosthetic fractures, prosthetic joint infections, aseptic revisions, and all cause reoperations. Results A total of 18,541 patients were included, with 14,623 (78.9%) attending the preoperative education class. Attendance was significantly associated with a shorter postoperative length of stay (1.52 ± 1.3 vs. 1.70 ± 1.7 days, P < 0.001) and lower odds of discharge to a post-acute care facility (odds ratio 0.862, 95% CI: 0.770 to 0.965). However, patients who attended the class had a higher rate of aseptic revision within 90 days (3.1% vs. 2.3%; P = 0.014). No significant differences were observed in other major postoperative complications. Conclusion Engagement in preoperative joints education classes prior to TKA is associated with beneficial outcomes, including reduced hospital length of stay and improved rates of discharge home. However, the higher rate of aseptic revisions within 90 days warrants further investigation. These findings support the integration of preoperative education into patient care protocols to enhance recovery while highlighting the need to explore factors contributing to early revisions.