Total Hip and Knee Arthroplasty in Patients Older Than Age 80 Years

A rapidly aging population is currently reshaping the demographic profile of the United States. Among older patients, the cohort aged >80 years is not only living longer but also is electing to undergo more total hip and knee arthroplasties. To improve perioperative safety, orthopaedic surgeons should understand the risks and clinical outcomes of arthroplasty in patients of advanced age. Although morbidity and mortality rates are higher for patients aged >80 years than for younger patients undergoing total hip and knee arthroplasties and revision surgeries, functional outcomes, pain relief, and patient satisfaction are consistent between groups. In addition, geriatric co-management before total hip and total knee arthroplasty has reduced the rate of minor complications and the length of hospital stays in elderly patients. Surgeons should inform older patients and their families of the increased risks of morbidity and mortality before these procedures are undertaken.