VO2 max before and after hip and knee replacement surgery for osteoarthritis patients: a narrative review

Hip and knee replacement surgery may provide a critical window for improving cardiovascular fitness, especially when accompanied by targeted rehabilitation. These findings have important implications for nursing practice. Nurses can play a pivotal role in promoting structured aerobic exercise, supporting use of wearable technologies, and ensuring recovery pathways address cardiorespiratory health alongside joint mobility. Further research is needed to determine optimal rehabilitation strategies, improve inclusivity in VO₂ assessment, and evaluate long-term outcomes in diverse patient populations.