Imagine having joint replacement surgery in the morning and heading home
that same afternoon.
At JCMG Orthopaedics in Jefferson City, Missouri, joint replacements are performed in a state-of-the-art outpatient setting at the JCMG Surgery Center. Patients return home the same day, experience less pain, and recover faster than traditional hospital-based procedures. This innovative approach blends safety, comfort, and efficiency, helping you regain mobility without an overnight stay. As outpatient joint replacement becomes more common, JCMG proudly leads the way locally, offering expert surgeons and advanced care close to home.
Who is an Ideal Candidate for Outpatient Knee, Hip, or Shoulder Replacement?
Outpatient joint replacement is an excellent option for many patients. Ideal candidates are generally healthy, motivated, and have a strong support system at home. They’ve completed preoperative physical therapy, obtained necessary supplies (like a walker or sling), and have a safe home environment prepared for recovery.
If you are in relatively good health and are committed to following post-op instructions, you may be a good candidate. Your orthopaedic surgeon will help determine if outpatient surgery is right for you based on your overall health, mobility, and personal goals.
Benefits of Outpatient Joint Replacement Surgery at JCMG
Choosing outpatient joint replacement offers several advantages:
- Faster recovery at home: Patients often feel more comfortable and relaxed recovering in their own space.
- Lower risk of infection: Shorter stays in medical facilities reduce exposure to hospital-acquired infections.
- Cost-effective: Outpatient procedures can be more affordable than inpatient hospital stays.
- Personalized care: The JCMG Surgery Center is designed for efficiency and comfort. The team is highly trained in outpatient surgery care and focuses on your individual needs.
Preparing for Outpatient Joint Replacement Surgery
You will be contacted prior to your procedure with important details about your surgery, including your scheduled arrival time and other pre-op instructions. Procedure durations will vary depending on the patient and the joint involved, but surgeries are typically about 90 minutes, followed by a few hours in the recovery room.
Before surgery, you will need to:
- Pick up your prescriptions from your preferred pharmacy.
- Bring your post-op equipment with you, such as a walker or sling. Your provider will work with you ahead of time to inform you of the necessary items post-op.
- Avoid eating for eight hours prior (you may drink approved clear liquids up to two hours before arrival).
- Shower with antibacterial soap the night before and morning of surgery.
- Avoid shaving your legs at least 48 hours before surgery.
Recovering at Home After Outpatient Joint Replacement
Recovery begins the moment you wake up at the Surgery Center. You’ll need to have a postoperative physical therapy visit scheduled. You also need to ensure your home is free of tripping hazards, like loose rugs or cords. Most patients begin walking with assistance the same day and continue physical therapy to regain strength and mobility.
Pain management, wound care, and movement guidelines will be clearly explained before you leave the Surgery Center, and your care team will remain available to address any questions you may have throughout your recovery.
Patient Testimonials: Outpatient Joint Replacement Success Stories
Patients who have undergone outpatient joint replacement at JCMG often describe their experience as life-changing. Here’s what a few had to say:
“Dr. Craighead replaced my right hip last June, and I was walking 15 minutes after I woke up! A month later, I was driving. A year later, it’s like new! Very caring, very professional. Highly recommended.”
— JCMG Outpatient Joint Replacement Patient
“Dr. Middlemist, the entire surgery team & office staff are fantastic. Dr. Middlemist is very professional and makes the process tolerable from start to finish. His communication efforts are above and beyond the norm.
— JCMG Outpatient Joint Replacement Patient
Dr. Snyder is incredibly kind, compassionate, and thorough. He cares about his patients, listens, and wants to help you get better. His bedside manner is amazing, and I am so grateful to have found him as my surgeon.
— JCMG Outpatient Joint Replacement Patient
Schedule Your Outpatient Joint Replacement Consultation at JCMG
Whether you’re seeking relief from arthritis pain or looking to regain mobility, JCMG Orthopaedics in Jefferson City offers a seamless joint replacement experience from consultation to recovery. Our team is here to help you move forward comfortably, confidently, and close to home.