Outpatient Knee Replacement

Partial and total knee replacement is the surgical treatment for knee arthritis, where the damaged knee is removed and replaced with an artificial knee implant. Traditionally performed as an inpatient procedure, partial and total knee replacement surgery are now being conducted on an outpatient basis, allowing patients to go home the same day of the surgery. This is made possible with recent advances such as improved perioperative anesthesia, minimally invasive techniques and initiation of rehabilitation protocols soon after surgery.

Whether or not the surgery is performed in the hospital or in an outpatient setting, the implants and surgical techniques are the same. You will typically be in the recovery area for a few hours and start walking on your new joint immediately with physical therapy and nursing staff. Once your pain is well controlled and you are able to walk safely, most patients will be discharged home that day.

Not every patient is a candidate for outpatient joint replacement. The decision to undergo outpatient joint replacement should be made with your surgeon and family. For those patients who are candidates for outpatient surgery it can provide a streamlined experience and allows you to recover in the comfort of your own home.

Post-operative care

In the event of an emergency dial 911.

In the event of a concerning post-operative complication, please contact us immediately for prompt support. Most concerns can be appropriately addressed by our team and we will make every effort to be available to you in a timely fashion. Avoid going to the Emergency Department for surgical issues unless necessary, or unless instructed by our team.

Credibility Links

  • American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
  • American Medical Association
  • American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons
  • Mid-America Orthopaedic Association
  • Michigan Institute for Advanced Surgery Center
  • FAAOS Logo