Clinical practices for primary hip and knee arthroplasties in Spain: A national study

Primary hip and knee arthroplasties are some of the most frequent surgical procedures in the Spanish Healthcare System. This study was carried out with the aim of identifying the current clinical practices held in the territory for such processes, as well as future trends.

In May 2017 a set of 40 questions regarding the practices, indicators, coordination, concerns and tendencies were sent to 289 Heads of Orthopaedic Services from all over Spain.

Responses were received from 141 hospitals. The mean length of stay varied from 2,6 to 12,6days. Mobilization is initiated from the first post-operative hours in 4% of hospitals, until 48h after surgery in 16% of hospitals. There is no unique standard for the use of drains, urinary catheter or fasting time. In addition, different surgical approaches, implant types, analgesia and blood management protocols can coexist within the same hospital. In 87% of cases, there are no formal channel paths for interdisciplinary coordination. Fast-track surgery has been incorporated into the practice of 36% of hospitals, while 66% of hospitals consider that by applying it they could achieve an earlier patient recovery. In 56% of those surveyed, surgeon concerns are focused on infection management and its prevention, which is expected to have a high impact in the future of arthroplasties, together with pain management.

The study shows a high variability in practices among centers in processes, clinical protocols and interdisciplinary coordination, which have an effect on results and process indicators.