Table 1 The ten prioritised preoperative risk factors considered most important determinants of poor outcomes in patients scheduled for primary elective unilateral hip and knee total joint arthroplasty in South Africa

1. Poor general health (ASA 3 and above)

2. Impaired cardiovascular functional status

3. Advanced age

4. Preoperative mobility

5. Obesity or chronic malnutrition

6. Recent or current sources of infection (e.g. bladder, respiratory, dental etc.)

7. Preoperative chronic pain

7. Matching surgical complexity with surgical experience or skill

9. Psychiatric disorders and/or cognitive impairment

10. Preoperative anaemia