Can I Go Home the Same Day After Hip Or Knee Replacement?

Many patients ask whether they can go home the same day after hip or knee replacement surgery — or whether they need to stay overnight in hospital. In this video, orthopedic surgeon Dr. Amit Atrey from Joint Recovery explains how this decision is made and who may be suitable for same-day discharge. Key points discussed: • The decision is made together by the patient and surgeon • Most patients prefer going home to sleep in their own bed In Dr. Atrey’s practice, 7 out of 10 patients go home the same day — safely and successfully. Same-day discharge has been routine at his hospital for 6–10 years. To be safe for same-day discharge, patients typically: • Have no major heart or lung conditions • Have well-controlled diabetes (or no diabetes) • Are low anesthetic risk • Have someone stay with them for the first 2–3 nights • Are mobile before surgery Some patients may need to stay overnight, especially if they: • Have long-standing or complex pain issues • Use opioid pain medication regularly • Are wheelchair-bound or require significant walking support Joint Recovery helps patients prepare for surgery and recovery — whether they go home the same day or stay overnight. In our videos, we discuss recovery, rehabilitation, and patient education following hip and knee replacement surgery. This content is part of the Joint Recovery digital rehabilitation education program. Joint Recovery supports patients with structured guidance, daily rehabilitation routines, and clinically informed education to improve confidence and recovery outcomes. This video is intended for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Content is developed and reviewed in collaboration with licensed healthcare professionals. Always consult your own surgeon, physician, or physiotherapist for personal medical decisions. Clinical governance: Joint Recovery Medical Advisory Team Website: https://www.jointrecovery.com Professional education partner: https://www.eduCAST.org #JointRecovery #HipReplacement #KneeReplacement #SameDaySurgery #RecoveryAtHome #OrthopaedicCare #PatientEducation