Advancing Patient-Centered Approaches in Orthopaedic Care

Patient-centered care is increasingly defined not only by clinical outcomes but how seamlessly care fits into a patient’s life. At AHN Orthopaedic Institute, this philosophy is driving advances in the AHN Hand and Upper Extremity Division so patients can return to their favorite activities as quickly and safely as possible.

Minimally invasive approaches lead to meaningful recovery gains

In March 2024, AHN Monroeville Surgery Center was the first stand-alone community ambulatory surgery facility in western Pennsylvania to offer same-day total shoulder replacement surgery. Since then, AHN orthopaedic surgeons have continued to expand the use of minimally invasive surgical techniques in the outpatient setting. 

Transforming the surgical experience for procedures such as endoscopic carpal tunnel release and shoulder, hip, and knee arthroplasty has helped address the growing challenge of limited operating room availability at traditional hospital sites. Leveraging computer-assisted surgical technology has also supported more efficient, precise surgery with better outcomes and faster recovery times for patients.

“My patients consistently report a high level of satisfaction,” said Robert Colin Brabender, MD, an orthopaedic surgeon specializing in hand and upper extremity care at AHN. “Many are home by early afternoon, recovering comfortably in their own space, and back to normal activities within a couple of days.”

Adapting anesthesia for hand and upper extremity surgery

AHN also offers wide-awake local anesthesia no tourniquet (WALANT) for patients with both acute and chronic conditions. This innovative approach relies on local anesthetic and hemostatic agents, allowing patients to remain awake without a tourniquet and to actively participate in the procedure if necessary. It also eliminates the need for: 

• Medical clearance prior to surgery
• Pre-operative testing
• Pre-operative fasting
• Sedation or general anesthesia

 “It’s a walk-in, walk-out model,” said Dr. Brabender. “Patients have their issue addressed efficiently, and in many cases, they’re even able to drive themselves home.”

These patient-centered pathways ensure the highest-quality care aligned with modern expectations for convenience and efficiency, without sacrificing outcomes.

How to refer

With the latest treatments and nationally recognized expertise, the AHN Hand and Upper Extremity Division is one of the most advanced programs in the country. Call 412-362-8677 to refer patients who present with acute or chronic conditions affecting the hands, wrists, forearms, elbows, shoulders, and rotator cuffs — especially if symptoms persist and interfere with function.