​The IJRR Patient Experience

The Institute for Joint Restoration and Research (IJRR) at Washington Health brings seamless continuity to joint care patients. From the first office visit through surgery and rehabilitation to your post-surgery semiannual check-ups — all your care is under the same roof.

Your joint restoration surgery will take place in Washington Health's operating suite. During your inpatient recovery, you will be cared for in the IJRR, housed in Washington Health's Center for Joint Replacement building, which is adjacent to and connected with the main Hospital.

When it's time for outpatient care, you'll be seen at The Washington Joint Restoration Clinic, which is also housed in the Center for Joint Replacement building. The Washington Joint Restoration Clinic is staffed by Hospital employees, while the professional services are provided by the teams of Drs. Dearborn and Sah. The clinic allows the hospital to have a controlled outpatient environment that supports the Institute’s research goals. (Please see the IJRR FAQs for more information about the Clinic and how services are billed).

Hip, Hip, Hooray!

​​Brothers Mike (left) and Glen (right) Lenhart both had minimally invasive hip replacement surgery on the same day by orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Alexander Sah (center).

Patient Now Dances the Night Away

Marilynn Nelson can once again dance the tango thanks to double hip replacement surgery. "Within seven days, I was out and about running errands and after six weeks, I was back to taking tango lessons and dancing at an advanced level. "It's wonderful to get back to my life!"

To read more patient stories, visit www.dearbornassoc.com/ OR www.sahortho.com

Keeping Our Patients Informed

Studies show that patients recover better and have increased confidence when they are provided with a comprehensive picture of their treatment and recovery. Consequently, the entire IJRR staff is devoted to teaching patients about what to expect in surgery, during their post-operative hospital stay, and when they return home.

​Prior to surgery, you will attend an intensive educational session featuring the nurses and therapists who will be providing the care during your stay. You will receive a binder full of information, including details about your surgery and recovery, and explanations of important rehabilitation exercises. Family members are encouraged to participate by acting as a coach during your recovery.

Features of the patient experience at the Institute for Joint Restoration and Research include:

• ​Nurses and Therapists who specialize in the care of joint replacement patients
• Private rooms and bathrooms with showers
• Emphasis on group activities as well as individualized care
• A unique menu selection for IJRR patients
• Instruction by our physical therapists on exercises, transfer techniques, proper ambulation skills, and self-care, to facilitate safe and independent mobility
• Education for your family and friends, who act as “coaches”
• A Case Manager who coordinates all patient-centered discharge planning
• A comprehensive patient guide for you to follow from four weeks pre-op until three months post-op, and beyond​