Abstract

PURPOSE: The aim of the present study was to assess the first experience with outpatient total hip arthroplasty (THA) in a public health environment in Chile. METHODS: Prospective series of the first 69 patients/72 hips. Surgery was performed in a public university-affiliated hospital. The patients were 64 (31-84) years old and healthy (ASA I-II) candidates for a primary hip arthroplasty. RESULTS: The outpatient track had 52.2% of arthroplasty candidates included and 94.4% (68/72 hips) were successfully discharged the same day. There were no emergency room visits during the first week after surgery. Two patients had single dislocation episodes, one requiring stem revision. There was one deep vein thrombosis. There were no other complications. All the patients reported to be satisfied with the outpatient track. INTERPRETATION: An outpatient track can be developed in a safe manner in this healthcare setting and population. This track of care was well accepted by the patients.