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Patient perceptions regarding ambulatory knee arthroplasties in China
Guanghui Zhao1, Chengyuan Ma1, Jianbing Ma1
1Department of Joint Surgery, Honghui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, No.555 East Youyi Road, Xi'an, 710054, Shaanxi, China.
Background:
While same-day discharge models for knee arthroplasty have gained significant traction in China's evolving healthcare landscape, patient perspectives on ambulatory surgical pathways remain underexplored. This qualitative study addresses a critical gap in the literature by systematically assessing patient experiences and perceptions regarding knee arthroplasty within China's emerging ambulatory care framework.
Methods:
A prospective cohort of 195 consecutive patients scheduled for primary knee arthroplasty at a tertiary orthopedic referral center underwent structured data collection through the WenJuanXing platform between January 1 and June 1, 2024. This cross-sectional survey employed an anonymous voluntary survey instrument administered at two critical timepoints: 1) prior to any clinical discussions regarding postoperative care pathways, and 2) before initiation of standardized preoperative education protocols.
Results:
In total, 188 participants (96%, 188/195) completed the survey. Of them, 70% were female and 84% were 60 years or older. While 68% were familiar with ambulatory surgery, awareness did not significantly differ by age (P = 0.64), sex (P = 0.19), occupation (P = 0.42), location (P = 0.55), or education level (P = 0.81). Interestingly, only 8 patients anticipated discharge within 24 h post-surgery, with most (71.8%) expecting a 3-day or more stay. However, if postoperative care was assured, 66% expressed comfort with same-day or 24-h discharge. 93% considered ambulatory knee arthroplasty suitable, and 71.8% believed it would yield superior outcomes through quicker recovery and reduced complications, infections, and pain. Despite this optimism, only 45% were willing to endure longer waits, and a third were open to paying more or traveling farther for ambulatory knee arthroplasty.
Conclusion:
The study reveals that most Chinese patients initially want ≥ 3-day stays but may accept 24-h discharge for knee arthroplasty. One-third are unaware of ambulatory knee arthroplasty, so more education is needed as procedures rise.
