Results showed patients who utilized a virtual physical therapy program after total knee arthroplasty had similar outcomes, but significant cost and time savings, compared with patients who used a formal physical therapy program.
“Virtual physical therapy may not be the best option for some, but I think for the vast majority of patients that are getting hip and knee replacements, this is an excellent option and can revolutionize this side of the health care system in terms of joint reconstruction,” Brandon H. Naylor, DO, arthritis and total joint specialist at Northside Hospital, told Healio about results he presented at the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Annual Meeting.
Naylor and colleagues randomly assigned patients undergoing same-day discharge TKA to be enrolled in either a virtual physical therapy program or formal physical therapy program. Researchers collected Veterans Rand-12 (VR-12) mental and physical health component summary scores and Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score for Joint Replacement scores preoperatively and at 6 and 12 weeks postoperatively. Investigators also measured the timed-up-and-go (TUG) test, range of motion and 4-meter gait speed test preoperatively and at 6 weeks postoperatively. Researchers also collected physical therapy utilization at 90 days postoperatively.
By Casey Tingle | Orthopedics Today
Image Credit: Casey Tingle / Orthopedics Today
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