Pre-Arthroplasty Rehabilitation is Effective in Reducing Hospital Stay

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Abstract
Backround. The purpose of the trial was to evaluate the effect on length of stay of individually tailored rehabilitation for clients who were undergoing hip or knee arthroplasty. Method. Clients (n = 133) with complex needs (comorbid conditions or limited social support) were randomly assigned to receive preoperative usual care (UC) or rehabilitation (R). Usual care clients received a single preoperative clinic visit. Rehabilitation clients were individually assessed and received multi disciplinary rehabilitation to optimize functional capacity, education about the in-hospital phase and early discharge planning. All rehabilitation subjects received interdisciplinary counseling/education focused on preparation for discharge home. The intervention for approximately half the rehabilitation clients was a single, cost-effective session, while others received physical conditioning. Results. Clients receiving rehabilitation achieved discharge criteria earlier (R = 5.4, UC = 8 days) and had a shorter actual length of stay (R = 6.5, UC = 10.5 days). Clinical Implications. This preoperative, individually tailored, rehabilitation program reduced length of stay.