In the last 10 years, the volume of ambulatory surgery performed in ASCs has drastically increased. The main reason behind this surgical shift is that the overall cost and time required for a procedure are lower than hospital charges. Due to this, the CMS ( Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services) is continuously adding more procedures each year to Ambulatory Surgical Centers.
What are Ambulatory Surgeries?
Ambulatory surgeries, also known as same-day surgeries or outpatient surgeries, are quick medical procedures that do not require patients to stay overnight in a hospital. Patients can get discharged on the same day they come for the treatment.
There are a variety of procedures that can be treated the same day in an Ambulatory Surgery Center. It includes minor practices like ear tubes and eye surgeries to complex treatments like orthopedic procedures, hernia repairs, and more.
Why Ambulatory Surgery is the Future?
Studies show that patients who undergo same day surgery experience fewer complications and pain, save time, and shorten their recovery period. The surgery benefits a patient with lower cost, less risk of acquired infections, and enhanced comfort through recovery at their own home. All these advantages are possible because the ASCs use advanced invasive surgical treatments, better pain management, and specialized same-day care facilities. Patients can access a more personalized and efficient environment as compared to traditional inpatient hospitals.
Lower Costs: Avoid additional hospital room charges, which contribute to lower overall costs for the medical treatment.
Reduced Infection Risk: Lower risk of surgical site infections as patients hardly interact with other sick individuals.
Greater Convenience and Comfort: Relaxing in the comfort of their own homes reduces the recovery time. Patients spend time with their family members and loved ones, rather than in the unfamiliar hospital setting.
More Predictable Scheduling: Usually, the Ambulatory Care Center is less busy with emergency room cases. It allows medical providers to give more time to on-time procedures and reduce delays.
Specialized and Efficient Environment: For routine procedures, these care centres are designed to provide more streamlined experiences than large hospitals.
Faster Return to Activities: Due to minimally invasive procedures and fast discharge, patients are resume work and other daily activities sooner.
Explore the Most Common Outpatient Surgeries
Nowadays, there are a lot of procedures performed on a same-day surgery basis. Some of the most effective ambulatory surgery options are detailed here;
Cataract surgery
A cataract treatment happens when the natural lens of your eye becomes cloudy. In this procedure, the providers replace the natural lenses with an artificial lens. The treatment is quick and performed under local anesthesia, which requires less recovery time.
Ear/nose/throat surgery
Another category of same-day treatments involves nose, ear, and throat surgeries. These treatments usually include tonsil and adenoid removal in children and sinus surgeries, or ear tube placements in adults.
Cosmetic Surgeries
All the cosmetic treatments are normally performed on an ambulatory basis. Skin grafts for injuries or burns, breast reconstruction, and some elective treatments like eyelid surgery or liposuction are some of the common same-day cosmetic surgeries. These treatments can be done for medical reasons or to improve the appearance and boost self-confidence.
Orthopedic Surgeries
Some orthopedic treatments, like knee and hip replacements, can be done in an outpatient setting with cutting-edge surgical and pain management techniques. Other less orthopedic procedures, including ankle reconstructions, knee repairs, treatment for toe and foot conditions, can also be done with minimal downtime.
Gall Bladder Removal
Gallbladder removal on an ambulatory basis is a great choice to treat gallstones or gallbladder inflammation. This treatment is commonly done laparoscopically, which means small incisions are used for less pain and quicker recovery.
Skin Procedures
Minor skin treatments like mole removal and skin tag excision can also be performed in an Ambulatory Surgery Center.
Lumpectomy
For the treatment of breast cancer, a lumpectomy may be performed to remove the tumor and preserve the rest of the breast. It is a short treatment, where the patient can return home on the same day.
Tendon & muscle repair
Tendon and muscle repairs with rotator cuff surgery an another popular outpatient surgery. These treatments are performed to fix sports injuries, which involve small incisions and arthroscopic tools for reduced trauma.
Gynecological Procedures
Gynecological surgeries such as tubal ligation and D&C (dilation and curettage) can be performed same day for better women’s health. D & C is the best treatment to reduce the risks after a miscarriage or to investigate abnormal bleeding. Tubal ligation in women is a popular method to control birth permanently.
Hernia Operations
For inguinal or abdominal hernia repairs, ASCs offer flexible treatment plans. These procedures can be done using minimally invasive techniques to ensure same-day home return and quick recovery.
Kidney Stone Treatment
The treatment of a kidney stone is possible without a hospital stay. Ureteroscopy with laser treatment or shock wave therapy (lithotripsy) are powerful treatment to break up and remove stones from the body. These treatments quickly restore normal urine flow and relieve pain.
How to Prepare for Same-Day Surgery?
A specialized provider of an outpatient surgery center will give you various instructions before your treatment session. This may include the following-
Don’t Take Water and Food
On the day of treatment, you may have to fast for certain hours.
Come with a Supportive Person
You may feel weak after the procedure, so your supportive person will listen to the provider’s instructions and ask questions. Come with a friend or family member who can take you home safely.
Wear loose and comfortable clothes
After the surgery, you may struggle to wear tight jeans and other clothes. Keep oversized clothes to feel comfortable.
What Happens After an Outpatient Surgery?
After recovering from anesthesia, the medical provider will discharge you from the ASC Service Centre. You may have to complete certain documentation to go home.
Allow yourself some recovery time and avoid going to school or work immediately.
Your provider will give you some instructions for quick recovery at home. This may include avoiding some foods and regular exercise. Take proper rest for at least 24 hours and consult with your provider for any concerns.
Key Takeaways
An ambulatory surgery has become the safest, effective, and convenient option in modern healthcare. It covers several specializations, from eye treatments and orthopedics to Hernia, Gynecological, and Kidney Stone Treatments.
Consider the right Ambulatory Surgery Center, like SAAK Health, to get optimal health solutions and reach your wellness goals.
With careful planning and advanced techniques, we perform outpatient surgeries carefully to offer you a low-stress experience. Book your consultation today for expert insights!