Protocol-Based Arthroplasty: Less Is More

摘要

Total joint arthroplasty is a successful orthopedic procedure that is performed in high volume in the United States and internationally. As economic pressures continue to mount in the US health care system, it will become increasingly important to minimize cost and improve quality and value. At the authors' institution, a protocol-based arthroplasty model is used, in many ways based on simplification of the patient care pathway. The largely evidence-based protocol has its foundation in eliminating unnecessary dogmatic practices, enhancing the patient experience, and achieving cost-effectiveness. The authors believe that a model like this can be applied to joint arthroplasty practices across the country in the future to maximize the value delivered to patients.