What Do Patients Expect from Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Patient expectations are key predictors of post-total knee arthroplasty (TKA) health outcomes. The expectations dictate the pain levels, functional outcomes, and disability post-surgery. The study aims at exploring pre-operative expectations of patients from TKA. The study sample (n = 15) consisted of participants diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis who had opted for elective replacement surgery. The mean (SD) age of the participants was 72.07 (5.7). The principles of the qualitative research approach guided the study’s methodology. The primary author conducted face-to-face semi-structured interviews, which were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Each interview lasted for 15–30 min. The transcribed verbatims were thematically analyzed. The participants expected surgery to relieve their pain, improve their functional status, and make them productive for society. They also expected to be socially active and get rid of their medications. Participants lived experiences modulated their expectations. The study findings emphasize that health-care providers must consider the expectations of individuals undergoing surgery. Patients should be educated about realistic goals and attainments from surgery to ensure better post-operative health outcomes.