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Patient satisfaction in fast-track limb lengthening and realignment surgery
Ulrik Kähler Olesen1,2, Tilde Jonassen Bjørck3, Andrea Benedicte Berntsen4
1Orthopaedic Clinic, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet.
Danish Medical Journal
|August 13, 2026
Summary
Accelerated protocols significantly reduce hospital length of stay (LOS) in reconstructive orthopaedic surgery, leading to high patient satisfaction and cost savings. This fast-track approach enhances patient outcomes and operational efficiency.
Area of Science:
- Orthopaedic Surgery
- Healthcare Management
- Patient Outcomes
Background:
- Investigated accelerated protocols for reconstructive orthopaedic surgery.
- Included limb lengthening, alignment corrections, and hardware removals.
- Assessed patient satisfaction and estimated cost savings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if an accelerated protocol can reduce length of stay (LOS) in reconstructive orthopaedic surgery.
- To evaluate patient satisfaction using patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs).
- To estimate potential cost savings associated with reduced LOS.
Main Methods:
- Included 26 patients undergoing 34 elective procedures (limb lengthening, osteotomies, hardware removals).
- Compared LOS with a historic cohort (n=11).
- Collected data on LOS, complications, and PROMs-based satisfaction.
Main Results:
- Same-day discharge achieved in 87% of planned cases; 67% discharged day after surgery.
- Average LOS was 1.1 days vs. 4.4 days in the historic cohort.
- High patient satisfaction reported (16/22 excellent/very good); cost savings of ~€1,000 per night saved.
Conclusions:
- Fast-track protocols substantially reduce LOS in reconstructive surgery.
- High patient satisfaction is associated with accelerated protocols.
- Patients with pre-existing pain or undergoing tibial procedures may need extra support.
