Keys to improving knee replacement patient experience

Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA) is the most common joint replacement surgery in Canada with up to 20% of patients reporting dissatisfaction post-surgery. Our research team investigated this issue through a mixed methods study (Patient Experience with Arthroplasty of the Knee [PEAK]). Laurie Goldsmith, et al recently published the results of the qualitative data in the BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders examining patient experience with knee replacement surgery. The findings indicate multiple areas for improvement in the patient experience, including the intensity, duration and management of pain and a need for support throughout the process. Patients who indicated an overall negative TKA experience, had expectations that were not met and felt unsupported during their TKA recovery, even if they had a good TKA outcome.