Abstract
Objectives
To define an enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocol, or “Fast-track” protocol, for primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and present the results of patients submitted to this protocol.
Methods
This was a retrospective review of 70 patients (86 knees) submitted to TKA following an ERAS protocol between 2013 and 2018. Range of motion, quadriceps strengh, 6-minute walk test, VAS, WOMAC and SF-36 questionnaires were completed at baseline and at last follow-up. Lenght of stay (LOS), blood count, complications and readmission rates were also analysed.
Results
86 TKAs were analysed. All parameters evaluated (extension deficit, quadriceps deficit, walking test, EVA, WOMAC, SF-36) were significantly improved at one year follow-up, with the exception of knee flexion deficit. Mean LOS was 2,4 days. There were no readmissions. One patient needed blood transfusion.
Conclusion
We present a feasible ERAS protocol that provided a safe short LOS with excelent results.