Day case vs inpatient total shoulder arthroplasty: A retrospective cohort study and cost-effectiveness analysis

Day case total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) is a novel approach, not widely practiced in Europe. We conducted a retrospective cohort study of patients comparing elective day case and inpatient TSAs in our United Kingdom centre.

To evaluate the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of day case TSA compared to standard inpatient total shoulder arthroplasty.

All patients undergoing TSA between January 2017 and July 2018 were included. Outcome measures were: Change in abduction and extension 3 mo postoperatively; 30-d postoperative adverse events and re-admissions in day case and inpatient groups. We also conducted an economic evaluation of outpatient arthroplasty. Multivariate linear and logistic regression were used to adjust for demographic and operative covariates.

Fifty nine patients were included, 18 d cases and 41 inpatients. There were no adverse events or re-admissions at 30 d postoperatively in either group. There were no significant differences in adjusted flexion (mean difference 16.4, 95%CI: 17.6-50.5, P = 0.337) or abduction (mean difference: 13.2, 95%CI: 18.4-44.9, P = 0.405) postoperatively between groups. Median savings with outpatient arthroplasty were £529 (interquartile range: 247.33-789, P < 0.0001).

Day case TSA is a safe, effective procedure, with significant cost benefit. Wider use may be warranted in the United Kingdom and beyond, with potential for significant cost savings and improved efficiency.