Total Knee Arthroplasty: Fast Track Protocol is the Future?

This study compares a "fast-track" enhanced recovery protocol versus standard care for patients undergoing total knee replacement (TKR) surgery for knee osteoarthritis. Fast-track protocols involve coordinated, multimodal approaches — including optimized anesthesia, aggressive pain management, early mobilization, and streamlined care pathways — designed to get patients moving and home faster, with less pain and fewer complications. Participants are randomized to fast-track or conventional care. Outcomes measured include time to achieve mobilization milestones, length of hospital stay, pain levels, and complication rates. This study tests whether fast-track protocols are safe and effective in an Italian hospital setting. You may be eligible if: - You have knee osteoarthritis and are scheduled for primary total knee replacement - Your BMI is less than 32 - You can complete a simple timed mobility test in 12 seconds or less - Your anesthesia risk classification is ASA 2 or below - Your pre-operative hemoglobin is above 13 g/dL - You are eligible for spinal anesthesia and have a caregiver at home You may NOT be eligible if: - You have a psychiatric condition - You currently need crutches before the surgery - Your anesthesia risk is ASA 3 or higher - Your pre-operative hemoglobin is below 13 g/dL - You are between 18 and 78 years old (maximum age applies) Talk to your doctor to see if this trial is right for you.