Can You Go Home Right After Shoulder Replacement Surgery?

Can you go home right after shoulder replacement surgery? Often, the answer is yes. Many patients are discharged the same day if they meet specific health and stability criteria. This post covers what to expect and the factors that influence same-day discharge.

• Same-day discharge after shoulder replacement surgery is viable for the vast majority of patients, given they meet health and pain management criteria determined by the surgical team.
• Effective pain management and early physical therapy are important for a smooth recovery and minimizing complications post-surgery.
• Monitoring for potential complications and adhering to home care instructions are essential for a successful and safe recovery process.

Immediately after shoulder replacement surgery, you’ll be taken to the recovery room for close observation. Here, medical staff will monitor your vital signs and manage any postoperative pain to ensure your comfort and safety. Expect to spend approximately one hour in this room as your body begins to recover from the surgery. There are certainly exceptions to this with some recovering very quickly and others taking longer. 

During this time, the care team will keep a close eye on potential complications, such as infection or excessive swelling, and discuss the timing and dosing of your blood thinners before discharge. Understanding this process helps set realistic expectations and prepares you for the critical first few weeks of your recovery time journey.

For many patients, same day shoulder surgery has become a viable option, thanks to advancements in medical procedures and postoperative care. The majority of shoulder replacements now allow for same-day discharge, provided certain conditions are met. You must be healthy, stable, and have manageable pain to go home the same day. Additionally, you must have someone who will be with you and be immediately available to assist you in the event of an emergency. 

The decision to discharge a patient on the same day is made by the surgery care team, who use tools like the Outpatient Arthroplasty Risk Assessment (OARA) score to evaluate patient comorbidities and determine if it’s safe to go home. This careful assessment ensures that only those who are truly ready are sent home, minimizing the risk of complications.

Several factors can influence whether you can go home the same day after shoulder replacement surgery. Age does play a significant role, with the likelihood of same-day discharge decreasing with each passing decade.Chronic conditions like COPD, congestive heart failure, or insulin-dependent diabetes can lower the odds of same-day discharge. Interestingly, patients undergoing surgery post-COVID-19 pandemic are more likely to be discharged early, reflecting a shift in patient preferences and healthcare practices.

Preoperative optimization and coordinated post-surgery care are crucial to achieving the best outcomes.

Effective pain management is important for a smooth recovery post-surgery. Right after the procedure, a combination of prescribed medications and over-the-counter pain relievers is commonly used to address shoulder pain. Be prepared with pain medications at home to manage discomfort during the early recovery phase.

Cold packs, or a cool therapy device can be immensely helpful in reducing inflammation and alleviating pain after shoulder surgery. It’s essential to follow your shoulder surgeon’s instructions closely and not hesitate to reach out to if you experience increased pain or any other concerning symptoms, including severe pain. Proper pain medication management not only enhances comfort but also supports the healing process, enabling you to engage in physical therapy and other recovery activities more effectively.

Physical therapy is a cornerstone of the recovery process after shoulder replacement surgery. While I am a steadfast believer in the importance of skilled physical therapy, recent evidence from our peer reviewed literature has found that delaying physical therapy until after the early healing phase of weeks 1 to 4 post operatively leads to improved outcomes. At your first post operative appointment 1 week after surgery, I will review passive mobility and exercises that you can perform several times per day on your own until you start structured physical therapy week 5. Your physical therapist will follow my Shoulder Arthropoasty physical therapy protocol that is designed to encourage progress while protecting your shoulder from injury. This plan typically includes a blend of stretching, strengthening, and mobility exercises aimed at restoring your shoulder’s function and enabling you to gradually increase your activity levels. Engaging actively in your physical therapy sessions can lead to a quicker return to daily activities.

Once you are home, adhering to specific home care instructions helps lead to a successful recovery. Avoid lifting more than a couple pounds, even with your other arm as lifting can cause unintentional contractions of muscles in operative shoulder. Additionally, be mindful of your movements to ensure proper healing. Wearing your sling for the full six weeks post-surgery is crucial for protecting your shoulder and promoting healing.

Keep the dressing on your incision dry and clean to prevent infection. Monitor the incision site for any signs of swelling, drainage, redness, pain, or a temperature over 101°F, and report these symptoms to your healthcare provider immediately. Additionally, arrange for family or friends to assist with transportation, home care, and meal preparation during the recovery period.

Engaging in simple daily tasks like dressing and light chores can typically resume within one to two weeks post-surgery, but it’s essential to follow your orthopedic shoulder surgeon’s advice and not rush the process. Proper home care sets the foundation for a smooth and effective recovery, especially when you wear appropriate clothing.

Monitoring for potential surgical complications is a critical aspect of your post-surgery care. Immediate medical attention is necessary if you notice increased swelling, persistent fever, or significant changes in shoulder mobility. These symptoms can indicate severe complications that require prompt treatment to prevent further issues.

If the incision site shows new drainage or redness, it could signal an infection that needs to be reported to your healthcare provider. Developing a temperature of 101°F or higher post-surgery can also indicate an infection and warrants a quick call to your surgeon. Recognizing these symptoms early helps ensure a smoother recovery process and prevents serious complications.

Follow-up care plays an essential role in your treatment after shoulder replacement surgery. It ensures your safety during recovery. Attending all follow-up appointments is important for monitoring your recovery progress and addressing any issues that may arise. Typically, these appointments are scheduled at 1 weekand six weeks post-surgery. I will also see you at 3,6 and 12 months post operatively. 

During the first follow-up appointment, i will remove your surgical bandage to check your incision , and an X-ray of the shoulder is performed to assess the the implants. These visits allow your care team to ensure that your recovery is on track and to make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.

The recovery period after shoulder replacement surgery can vary significantly from person to person. While many patients can start to engage in light daily activities within a week or twoof surgery, it typically takes about six to 12 months to recover completely. Most patients can resume most activities by this time, although full recovery may take longer for some individuals.

Continuous physical therapy plays a helpful role in enhancing mobility and returning to normal activity levels post-surgery. As you progress through your recovery, you’ll be able to gradually reintroduce regular activities and even exercise sports like golf and tennis. Patience and persistence are key to achieving the best possible outcome.

Early discharge following shoulder replacement surgery offers a range of clinical, economic, and personal benefits. From a healthcare system perspective, it helps lower overall hospital costs by reducing the length of stay and optimizing the use of inpatient resources. .

For patients, recovering at home is typically more comfortable and psychologically reassuring. Familiar surroundings often contribute to reduced stress, better sleep, and a quicker return to normal routines. With proper planning and support, patients undergoing outpatient shoulder replacement can expect a smooth and successful recovery.  The trend toward early discharge has accelerated in recent years, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic, which emphasized the need to minimize time spent in healthcare facilities. As a result, same-day discharge has become the standard for many shoulder replacement procedures, provided patients meet safety criteria. This approach not only aligns with efforts to contain healthcare costs but also respects patient preferences for autonomy and comfort during recovery.

While early discharge has its benefits, it also comes with potential risks. Patients discharged on the same day may face inadequate pain management, increasing the risk of discomfort post-surgery.  Additionally, patients can experience other medical complications such as urinary retention, inadequate oxygen or heart attack. Despite these concerns, studies have shown that complications and readmission rates for same-day discharge patients after shoulder arthroplasty are low and comparable to those who stayed longer in the hospital. Nevertheless, it is important to weigh the risks and benefits carefully with your healthcare team, as the arm may be affected during recovery.

Preparing your home for recovery is essential for a smooth transition from the hospital room. Set up a comfortable resting area that is easily accessible to essentials like medications, water, and entertainment. Arranging for help with daily tasks such as cooking and transportation is also advisable to ensure adequate sleep.

Having a support system at home can significantly impact your health recovery experience. Social factors, such as lack of assistance, can complicate recovery and increase the likelihood of complications. Ensuring you feel prepared and supported at home can reduce anxiety and promote a more effective healing process.

In summary, recovering from shoulder replacement surgery involves a multifaceted approach, from managing immediate postoperative pain to engaging in long-term physical therapy. By understanding what to expect and preparing adequately, you can navigate the recovery process more confidently and effectively. Remember, patience and adherence to your healthcare provider’s instructions are key to a successful recovery.

Yes, most shoulder replacements permit same-day discharge if you are medically stable and your pain is managed effectively.

Be attentive to signs such as increased swelling, persistent fever, significant changes in shoulder mobility, and any new drainage or redness at the incision site. Promptly addressing these symptoms is important for a smooth recovery.

You will begin mobility exercises after week 1on self directed program. These passive exercises are critical in order to prevent scar tissue and stiffness  You all  start structured physical therapy week 5 after surgery to encourage recovery and prevent stiffness. Early passive movement is essential for achieving optimal outcomes.

Avoid lifting anything more than a fewpounds and to be mindful of your movements following shoulder replacement surgery. Do not use your operative arm for any lifting or pushing yourself up from bed or chair. Additionally, wearing a sling for six weeks is necessary to ensure proper immobilization and protect your recovery.

Most patients typically resume most activities within six months post-surgery, but complete recovery may take longer depending on individual circumstances. It’s essential to stay in touch with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.