Joint replacement has come a long way. What once required a hospital stay and days of post-op monitoring is now often completed in a single day with patients recovering comfortably at home by evening.
At Orthopaedic & Spine Center of the Rockies (OCR), outpatient hip, knee, and shoulder replacement is not only possible. It’s proven, safe, and highly effective thanks to advancements in surgical techniques, anesthesia, pain management, and recovery protocols.
Why Same-Day Joint Replacement Is Safer Than Ever
Outpatient joint replacement, also known as same-day surgery, uses minimally invasive techniques and enhanced anesthesia protocols to allow patients to go home within hours of surgery. These innovations dramatically reduce surgical trauma and improve recovery outcomes.
Here’s why more patients, especially in Westminster and the north Denver metro, are opting for outpatient surgery:
- Lower infection risk than traditional hospital stays
- Faster return to mobility and function
- More comfortable recovery in your own home
- Reduced healthcare costs
- High patient satisfaction rates
OCR has been at the forefront of this evolution, performing over 3,500 joint replacements each year, making it the highest-volume joint replacement provider in Colorado.
OCR’s Leadership in Outpatient Joint Replacement
OCR pioneered outpatient joint surgery and continues to lead through innovation. We’re proud to use:
- ROSA robotic-assisted knee systems for precision alignment
- Brainlab 3D navigation tools for accurate hip, knee, and shoulder implant positioning
These technologies improve implant placement and reduce tissue trauma, facilitating comfort, faster recovery, and better long‑term function. Learn more about OCR’s Total Joint Institute for an overview of our integrated approach.
As Mayo Clinic recently explained, robotic‑assisted joint replacements allow surgeons to plan bones and implants in three dimensions and achieve higher accuracy, resulting in patients who “recover more quickly, get up and move sooner… with less pain, nausea and vomiting.” (Source)
Who’s a Good Candidate for Same-Day Joint Surgery?
Not everyone is a candidate for outpatient surgery, but many are — including active adults, seniors in good health, and those with strong home support. During your evaluation, OCR surgeons will assess:
- Your age and medical history
- Overall fitness and mobility goals
- Home environment and support system
We also ensure every patient meets strict safety criteria, including advanced anesthesia screening, risk stratification, and detailed discharge planning. You’ll never be rushed or pushed into a setting that isn’t right for you.
Personalized, Team-Based Care, All in One Location
At OCR Westminster, patients experience the full journey in one place:
- Pre-surgical evaluation with imaging and labs
- Surgery in our modern outpatient surgery center
- Post-operative physical therapy and follow-up care
- Access to Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation for chronic pain, mobility, or recovery support
It’s all coordinated under one roof, so your care feels connected and personal.
Explore more about hip and knee joint replacement services at OCR.
Meet Your Joint Replacement Experts in Westminster
At OCR Westminster, you’ll experience a fully coordinated, compassionate journey:
- Pre-surgical evaluation with joint specialists and imaging
- Surgery in our modern outpatient surgical facility
- Same-day discharge with tailored discharge planning
- Post-operative therapy with Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation support, if needed, all within OCR’s integrated care network
Get to know Dr. Michael McHugh, OCR’s newest Total Joint Surgeon, in the video below:
Our Total Joint Institute enables communication and coordination across all stages, ensuring your care is continuous and centered on your unique needs.
Helping You Get Back to What You Love
At OCR, we know that joint replacement isn’t just about the surgery. It’s about reclaiming your lifestyle, walking pain-free, picking up grandkids, playing golf, or returning to the job you love.
Our patient-first philosophy means your goals guide every step. From the first consultation to your final physical therapy session, we’re here to help you move forward with confidence.