Quick Recovery Surgery

Introduction

The concept of QRS surgery originated in St. George, Utah, with Dr. Michael Anderson and his team. It involves the application of known principles of surgery to patients undergoing hip and knee joint replacement operations. The results of QRS have often resulted in shorter hospital stays after surgery. After discharge from the hospital, patients frequently return to their own home and experience quicker recoveries.

How it works

• Pre-operative: The application of QRS surgery begins well before the day of your joint replacement operation. The idea of this pre-surgical period is to anticipate and minimize any medical problems that can affect the outcome of the surgery. It is during this stage that medical problems such as diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, etc. are assessed.

  QRS involves pre-surgical education, including a training session with a physical therapist. A thorough physical examination is done by Dr. Anderson or his assistant prior to the day of surgery, and if needed, clearance from your primary care is arranged. In addition, during this preparation period, your home environment is evaluated to see if it is appropriate for you to plan on home setting after discharge or if a short period at a skilled nursing home is safer.

• Surgery: Techniques used in surgery have been refined in such a way that injury to nerves and muscles is minimized, resulting in less pain during the immediate post-operative period.
• Post-operative: After surgery the combination of personalized physical therapy, if needed (physical therapy following surgery is not routinely necessary), and the proper use of pain medications results in a shorter hospital stay and a swifter return to normal activities. Most patients return home in one or two days.