Why Have Your Joint Replacement At Proliance Surgery Center At Valley?
Written by: Dr. Timothy Alton
Total hip and knee replacement surgeries are among the most commonly performed procedures in the United States. Over time, technological advances have transformed how these operations are performed, offering remarkable benefits to patients (see my post on patient-reported outcomes).
The setting for joint replacement surgeries has also evolved. In the past, after a total hip or knee replacement, patients would typically spend multiple nights in the hospital. When I was training over a decade ago, a 2- or 3-night hospital stay post-surgery was standard.
However, when you need a hip or knee replacement, you're not "sick"; you simply have a worn-out joint causing pain. We've learned that extended hospital stays are often unnecessary. In fact, it's completely safe for most patients to go home the same day — and they love it.
WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE ASC:
PATIENT CARE
Our ambulatory surgery center (ASC) is designed to deliver the highest standard of care. The nursing staff here are compassionate and highly skilled professionals who ensure a positive experience for every patient.
The ASC is equipped with the latest and most innovative technology for hip and knee replacement surgeries, and we use only the best implants available. At our center, you'll receive personalized, compassionate care and the highest-quality surgery possible. Plus, you'll get to recover in the comfort of your own home and sleep in your own bed!
ANESTHESIA
Our skilled anesthesia team ensures that you are safely sedated during the operation, so you'll essentially "nap" through the surgery and wake up with your joint replaced, comfortable, and in recovery.
Our anesthesia techniques minimize narcotic use, reducing the risk of feeling nauseous or unwell after surgery. Patients often compare the experience to a colonoscopy (minus the bowel prep!) — where you're sedated, and suddenly, it's all done.
POST-OP RECOVERY
Before surgery, most patients can stand and walk, although it's painful. Remarkably, within hours of surgery, many patients can stand and walk again, often with less pain due to the numbing medications and anesthesia used during the procedure.
Our anesthesia protocol helps patients to start moving with their new joint almost immediately. The joint is strong enough to bear full weight right away, and our compassionate physical therapy team will help you start using it.
You'll start by STANDING, progress to WALKING DOWN THE HALL WITH A WALKER, and eventually practice NAVIGATING STAIRS. If your home has stairs, don't worry — you'll be prepared to manage them safely on your first night home. Just remember to take it slow to avoid falls.
Our team will make certain you go home as soon as it's safe to do so.
CONCLUSION
The shift from hospitals to ASCs for total joint replacements has been exciting to witness. It offers a streamlined, efficient surgical experience, allowing patients to recover in the comfort of their own homes.
I'm privileged to offer Proliance Surgery Center at Valley as an option for my patients and proud of the exceptional care our team provides.