Evaluating Short-Term Patient-Reported Outcome Measures Following Total Hip and Knee Replacement: A Comprehensive Review.

Abstract

Total hip replacement (THR) and total knee replacement (TKR) are widely performed surgical procedures to alleviate pain and improve function in patients with joint-related diseases. Short-term patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) have become a key metric in assessing the success of these surgeries from the patient's perspective, focusing on early recovery, pain management, mobility, and quality of life. This comprehensive review evaluates the significance of short-term PROMs following THR and TKR, highlighting commonly used tools such as the Oxford Hip Score (OHS), Oxford Knee Score (OKS), Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), and short-form health survey (SF-36). The analysis explores the impact of various factors, such as age, preoperative health status, and surgical technique, on short-term outcomes. Findings from recent studies indicate that while patients generally report improvements in physical function and pain relief within the first six months post-surgery, individual outcomes can vary significantly. Factors like early rehabilitation, mental health, and the presence of postoperative complications can influence the trajectory of recovery and satisfaction levels. Moreover, the review addresses the limitations of current PROMs, including variability in reporting and sensitivity to different patient populations. This review emphasizes the need for more personalized and standardized approaches to PROM assessment to better capture patient experiences and optimize postoperative care. Future research should focus on integrating PROMs with long-term follow-up data and digital health tools to track real-time patient progress, thus enhancing the overall quality of care for THR and TKR patients. Short-term PROMs play a vital role in understanding patient outcomes and guiding clinical practice for joint replacement surgeries.