With improved technology and advances in anesthesia and pain management, outpatient (sometimes called ambulatory) surgery is being performed for many less-invasive procedures with overwhelming success. Of course, each case is unique, but generally for procedures including gallbladder removal and hernia repair, the benefits of outpatient surgery make it far more attractive than a stay in the hospital.

Benefits include:

• Convenience – The convenience of recovering in your home generally makes recovery time easier than an in-hospital stay.
• Lower cost – Since there are no hospital room charges, costs are much lower for outpatient surgery. Some insurance companies will cover certain surgical procedures only on an outpatient basis, unless your physician certifies that you require a more intensive level of post-operative care due to an underlying medical condition.
• Reduced stress – In the majority of cases, outpatient surgery is less stressful than inpatient surgery. This is especially true for children who are afraid of being away from home. Most people prefer to recover in their homes rather than in the hospital.
• Scheduling is more predictable – In a hospital setting, emergency surgeries and procedures that take longer than expected can delay scheduled surgeries. An outpatient setting can generally stay within a set schedule since the procedures are less complex and more routine.

The benefits don’t stop with the patient either. Recovering at home often makes things much easier for caregiving. Not having to drive to and park at the hospital, being able to provide meals for caregiver, patient, and often other family members is less expensive and more convenient, and if there are small children at home, having mommy or daddy nearby can help ease fear and confusion for them.

If you are considering surgery, contact Dr. Johnson to investigate your options.

Learn more about this topic online at: http://web.squ.edu.om/med-Lib/MED_CD/E_CDs/anesthesia/site/content/v04/040509r00.HTM