Radiographic cost reduction strategy in total joint arthroplasty. A prospective analysis.

A consecutive series of 222 patients who underwent cemented total knee arthroplasty (124) and uncemented total hip arthroplasty (98) were evaluated prospectively. The purpose of this study was to determine if routine radiologic interpretation of postoperative total hip and total knee radiographs is cost effective. Also, the study was designed to determine if routine predischarge radiographs, in conjunction with recovery room radiographs, are worthwhile. There were no changes in postoperative patient management based on orthopaedic or radiologic review of either radiograph. No additional information was gained from review of the radiologic evaluations. Therefore, obtaining one series of routine inpatient postoperative total joint radiographs and eliminating postoperative radiologic consultation will significantly reduce costs without compromising patient care.