If you or a loved one is considering a joint replacement in Iowa, you may be surprised to learn that many procedures no longer require an overnight hospital stay. Across the country, and especially here in Iowa, more hip and knee replacements are being safely and successfully performed in outpatient surgery centers (also called ambulatory surgery centers).
At Iowa Ortho, this shift is providing patients with a more comfortable experience, a faster recovery, and high-quality care closer to home.
What Is an Outpatient Surgery Center (ASC)?
An outpatient surgery center, also known as an ambulatory surgery center (ASC), is a specialized medical facility designed for same-day procedures. Patients come in for surgery and return home the same day, without staying overnight.
Iowa Ortho’s River Hills Ambulatory Surgery Center was built specifically to support advanced orthopedic procedures, including total and partial joint replacements.
Why Are Joint Replacements Moving Out of the Hospital and Into Outpatient Surgery Centers?
Advancements in surgical techniques, anesthesia, and pain management have made outpatient joint replacement a safe option for many patients. As a result, more orthopedic surgeons and patients are choosing surgery centers over traditional hospitals.
Here are a few key reasons why:
1. Faster, More Comfortable Recovery
Patients often feel more at ease recovering at home rather than in a hospital room. With improved pain control methods and personalized recovery plans, many people are up and moving within hours of surgery.
2. Lower Risk of Infection
Outpatient surgery centers focus on scheduled, elective procedures. This controlled environment can reduce exposure to hospital-acquired infections.
3. Advanced Technology
Modern surgery centers are equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including robotic-assisted surgical systems used for joint replacement. These tools allow surgeons to be more precise, which can lead to less tissue damage and smoother recoveries.
4. Personalized, Orthopedic-Focused Care
Unlike large hospitals that treat a wide range of medical conditions, outpatient surgery centers are highly specialized. At River Hills, the care team focuses exclusively on orthopedic patients—before, during, and after surgery.
5. Cost-Effective for Patients
Outpatient procedures are often more cost-effective than hospital-based surgeries, which can benefit patients and insurers alike.
Is Outpatient Joint Replacement Safe for Hip and Knee Patients?
Yes, for the right patients. Not everyone is a candidate for outpatient surgery, and that’s why thorough pre-surgical evaluations are essential.
At Iowa Ortho, our surgeons and physical therapists carefully consider each patient’s overall health, activity level, and support system at home before recommending outpatient joint replacement. Patient safety is always the top priority.
The Iowa Ortho Difference in Outpatient Joint Replacement
What truly sets Iowa Ortho apart is the continuity of care. From your first appointment to surgery at River Hills and through recovery with Iowa Ortho’s in-house physical therapy team, your care is coordinated every step of the way.
This team-based approach helps ensure:
- Clear communication
- Personalized recovery plans
- A smoother, more confident return to daily activities
Is Outpatient Joint Replacement Right for You?
If joint pain is limiting your mobility or quality of life, an orthopedic specialist can help you explore your options. Outpatient joint replacement may be a safe and effective choice, one that gets you back to doing what you love sooner.
To learn more about outpatient joint replacement surgery or to schedule a consultation with an Iowa Ortho specialist, contact Iowa Ortho today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Outpatient Joint Replacement
Can hip and knee replacements really be done as outpatient procedures?
Yes. Thanks to advancements in surgical techniques, anesthesia, and pain management, many hip and knee replacements can be safely performed as same-day procedures for appropriate candidates.
How long will I be at the outpatient surgery center?
Most patients spend several hours at the surgery center, which includes pre-operative preparation, surgery, and post-operative recovery before returning home the same day.
Is outpatient joint replacement more painful than hospital surgery?
No. Pain management protocols are carefully planned to keep patients comfortable during and after surgery. Many patients report excellent pain control and prefer recovering at home.
Who is a good candidate for outpatient joint replacement?
Patients who are generally healthy, motivated to recover, and have support at home may be good candidates. Your Iowa Ortho surgeon will determine the safest option for you.
What kind of follow-up care is provided?
After surgery, patients continue care with Iowa Ortho’s in-house physical therapy team and follow-up visits with their surgeon to ensure a smooth recovery.
Does insurance cover outpatient joint replacement?
Many insurance plans cover outpatient joint replacement procedures. Our team can help verify coverage and answer questions before surgery.