Orthopaedic Associates of Maine's Ambulatory Surgery Center helps patients get home and on the path to recovery faster.
What is an Ambulatory Surgery Center?
Ambulatory Surgery Centers (ASCs) are specialized facilities that allow surgeries to be conducted without the need for an overnight hospital stay. This approach offers a cost-effective solution for orthopedic surgeons performing specific procedures. Many patients find the process to be more convenient and less stressful compared to a traditional hospital environment. By choosing an ASC, you can recover in the comfort of your own home, reducing the risk of infection and enhancing your overall recovery experience.
"Fifteen years ago, when I got out of fellowship, I was not a believer in same-day discharges," says M.T. Newman, MD, FAAOS, an orthopedic surgeon at Orthopaedic Associates of Maine. "I thought we were probably going to be on the wrong side of history. In the past, post- operative issues with blood loss, including cardiac and neurologic complications as well as the possible need for blood transfusion, were much higher. Now with newer medication and techniques those issues have become significantly less of a concern."
Today, with our ambulatory surgery center, Orthopaedic Associates of Maine offers patients a better experience.
"With advances in surgical techniques and technology, many orthopedic procedures can now be performed on an ambulatory, or outpatient, basis, allowing patients to go home the same day as their operation," says Bryce Wolf, MD, orthopedic surgeon and medical director of the ASC.
Does Orthopaedic Associates of Maine perform outpatient knee replacement?
Absolutely! Outpatient knee replacement, also referred to as "same-day total joint replacement," is a widely performed procedure. Our skilled orthopedic surgeons at Orthopaedic Associates of Maine carry out total knee replacements, partial knee replacements, and minimally invasive knee replacements—all within our Ambulatory Surgery Centers (ASCs). Both partial and minimally invasive options help preserve more of your knee, often leading to quicker recovery times and improved range of motion once healing is complete. Should you require a total knee replacement in the future, that remains a viable option.
In addition, we provide non-surgical knee treatments, including physical therapy and pain management. Discover more about our comprehensive range of knee services here.
Is hip surgery outpatient?
At Orthopaedic Associates of Maine, we understand that a hip replacement can be a significant procedure, but we strive to make it as comfortable as possible. Our orthopedic surgeons perform total hip replacements in an outpatient setting, which typically leads to a quicker and less painful recovery. However, it's important to note that not all patients are candidates for outpatient surgery. Factors such as overall health, weight, and age can influence suitability for this approach.
We also offer a specialized procedure known as "direct anterior hip replacement." This innovative technique preserves the tendons around the hip, allowing patients to return to their favorite activities sooner and with a reduced risk of dislocating the hip joint.
To learn more about our hip services, please visit our website.
Is shoulder replacement surgery outpatient?
Certainly! At Orthopaedic Associates of Maine, our orthopedic specialists are dedicated to both surgical and non-surgical treatments for shoulder conditions, helping you return to the activities you love. We take pride in having some of the most experienced shoulder surgeons in the state.
For shoulder replacement surgery, we remove the damaged components of the shoulder joint and replace them with a highly polished metal ball attached to a stem and a plastic socket. While it may sound advanced, you can expect to go home the same day to begin your recovery.
We also offer a procedure known as "reverse total shoulder replacement," which is designed for patients with significant rotator cuff tears who experience a specific type of shoulder arthritis. This option is also available for individuals who have previously undergone shoulder replacement surgery and require additional treatment on the same shoulder.
Like our other outpatient procedures, these surgeries enable you to recover in the comfort of your own home. If your shoulder injury doesn't warrant a replacement, we'll collaborate with you on effective non-surgical treatment options. For more information about our comprehensive approach to shoulder replacements, please explore further.
A full range of procedures in the ASC
At Orthopaedic Associates of Maine, we pride ourselves on our extensive experience in outpatient surgery, performing thousands of procedures each year. Our skilled team specializes in joint replacement surgeries for the hip, knee, and shoulder, as well as minor soft tissue procedures, fracture repairs, ACL reconstructions, rotator cuff repairs, and various hand procedures, including carpal tunnel releases and wrist fractures.
Unlike traditional joint replacement surgeries that often require several days in the hospital and extensive rehabilitation, our outpatient approach allows patients to return home the same day. Our less invasive techniques utilize smaller incisions, resulting in reduced tissue damage and quicker recovery times.
To ensure a comfortable and safe experience post-surgery, our anesthesiologists provide a nerve block for effective pain management. Patients will also receive medications and any necessary assistive devices, such as a walker, to support their recovery journey.
Home is where recovery is
"I think many patients are amazed they can go home after surgery," says Wayne Piers, DO, an orthopedic surgeon at Orthopaedic Associates of Maine. "There was a time when patients spent a couple of weeks in the hospital for joint replacement. With the ASC, we can get people home the same day, and they are better off. They are not exposed to other people, and the best place for the patient is at home where they are comfortable and can begin recovery."
"I think there's a lot of proof in the literature suggesting going home the same day is safer than staying in the hospital," Dr. Newman adds.
Dr. Piers and Dr. Newman emphasize the crucial role of home health physical therapy in the recovery process, particularly following joint replacement surgery. Our skilled physical therapists assist patients in managing pain, enhancing their range of motion and strength, and navigating daily activities such as using stairs, the toilet, and the shower, as well as safely getting in and out of bed.
At Orthopaedic Associates of Maine, we believe that patient care continues throughout the recovery journey. We are dedicated to helping you return to work, life, and your favorite activities as swiftly and smoothly as possible.