#USA #San Diego #Knee Replacement #Osteoarthritis #Hip Replacement

Improving Quality of Life for Spouses of Joint Replacement Patients

Recent research presented at the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons' 2025 Annual Meeting has unveiled significant benefits for the spouses of patients undergoing total hip or knee arthroplasties. The study sheds light on a consequential yet often overlooked aspect of joint replacement surgery – its positive impact not just on patients but also on their partners.

Osteoarthritis, the most prevalent form of arthritis, affects approximately 33 million adults in the U.S. and leads to debilitating joint pain and stiffness. As this condition progresses, many individuals eventually require joint replacements. In the U.S., around 544,000 total hip replacements (THA) and 790,000 total knee replacements (TKA) are performed annually. Given these staggering numbers, understanding the implications of such procedures extends beyond mere surgical success for patients; it encompasses the ripple effect on their partners as well.

The growing trend of outpatient joint surgeries has shifted responsibilities onto families, with spouses often taking on primary caregiving roles immediately following surgery. Prior studies indicate that conditions like chronic pain not only diminish the quality of life for patients but also adversely affect their partners. As Nicholas Michael Brown, MD, FAAOS, noted, it's often the spouse who encourages the patient to seek medical help when daily activities become unmanageable. This study builds upon that observation, demonstrating the transformative benefits of joint replacement surgeries not only for patients but also for their spouses and families.

In this retrospective cohort study, researchers surveyed 100 spouses of patients who had undergone THA or TKA, with equal representation from both groups. The focus was on the changes in the spousal quality of life and caregiving burden at various time intervals: before surgery, two weeks post-operation, and at least one year later. The findings were compelling. A remarkable 70% of spouses reported that their quality of life had either slightly or significantly improved after their partner's surgery.

The results highlighted that, while the assistance required by spouses in daily activities increased right after surgery, it notably decreased within a year. For instance, in the THA group, the average assistance needed dwindled from 2.58 (preoperative) to just 1.42 after one year postoperative. These numbers signify a considerable easing of the caregiving burden, suggesting that as patients' physical function improves, spouses regain their autonomy and quality of life.

Similarly, spouses in the TKA group reported impressive improvements. Almost 76% indicated that their quality of life had improved post-surgery compared to pre-surgery levels. One of the critical takeaways from these findings is the acknowledgment that effective joint replacement surgeries yield benefits that extend beyond individual relief from pain.

Lead author Nicolas Jozefowski pointed out that this empirical evidence serves as essential guidance for surgeons when discussing what patients and their spouses might expect after THA and TKA. Patients look forward to decreased pain and increased mobility, which, crucially, enhances the shared experiences of couples post-surgery.

While the study presents robust data, it is essential to note its retrospective nature, which may introduce recall bias. Moreover, it did not account for other health issues affecting quality of life. Nevertheless, the implications are clear: successful joint replacement surgeries can lead to a rejuvenation in physical functionality and overall quality of life, not just for the patients but also for their partners who often play a significant role in their recovery journey.

In summary, the findings from this study reinforce the importance of joint replacement surgeries and their profound impact on familial dynamics. Health professionals should consider these factors when engaging with patients and their families, ensuring that they understand the broader benefits that accompany such life-altering procedures.