[Fast track in hip and knee arthroplasty]

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Surgical Process Optimization

Background:

• Fast-track treatment concepts, originating in general surgery, are now adapted for hip and knee arthroplasty.
• Scientific evidence supporting fast-track components in arthroplasty has been established, notably by Hendrik Husted.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of fast-track treatment concepts in arthroplasty.
• To explain the scientific principles underlying the fast-track approach.

Main Methods:

• Review and synthesis of existing literature on fast-track concepts in arthroplasty.
• Analysis of organizational, intraoperative, and perioperative factors contributing to fast-track implementation.

Main Results:

• Fast-track aims to improve medical treatment quality and reduce complications, not solely shorten hospital length of stay (LOS).
• Optimization of organizational processes and surgical approaches are key to successful fast-track integration.

Conclusions:

• Fast-track protocols represent an evolution in arthroplasty care, enhancing patient outcomes.
• Successful implementation requires a multidisciplinary approach focusing on process efficiency and evidence-based practices.