By Joshua Lee Jr., M.D. –
With improved technology and advances in anesthesia and pain control, many less invasive surgical procedures are now being performed on an outpatient, or ambulatory, basis. Common procedures that are now routinely performed on an outpatient basis include tonsillectomies, hernia repairs, gallbladder removals, some cosmetic surgeries, and cataract surgeries. Given the millions of procedures performed every year, complications from outpatient procedures are relatively uncommon.
The most appropriate procedures for outpatient surgery are those associated with post-operative care that is easily managed at home, and those with very low rates of post-operative complications, requiring care by a physician or nurse.
Outpatient surgery is performed in a variety of settings. Ambulatory surgical centers are located either within a hospital setting or as a freestanding satellite facility that is either independent or part of the local hospital. Some procedures may actually be performed right in the physician’s office.
There are many advantages of outpatient surgery over traditional, inpatient surgery. These include the following:
Convenience. The convenience of recovering in your home generally makes recovery time quicker and easier than an in-hospital stay.
Lower cost. Since there are no hospital room charges, and related hospital 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 persons, moreover, 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.
Experienced surgeons and advanced technology
If you or a loved one needs surgery, you can count on exceptional care from Lehigh Regional Medical Center. You’ll find surgeons who are leaders in their specialties, and a team of skilled and caring professionals who have access to the latest surgical technology.
We offer a full range of surgical services in almost every medical specialty — everything from general surgery to treat colorectal cancer, gastro esophageal reflux, hernias and gallbladders.
Minimally invasive options
Lehigh Regional Medical Center’s surgeons are recognized for their expertise in minimally invasive procedures. By using miniature cameras with microscopes, tiny fiber-optic flashlights and high-definition monitors, surgeons can perform surgery through small incisions that take only a few stitches to close. Smaller incisions result in less blood loss, less pain and a quicker recovery. We offer arthroscopic, laparoscopic, and laser surgery.
Focus on patient comfort and safety
Our skilled teams work in state-of-the-art surgical suites, and deliver personalized care using sophisticated medical technology. We work closely with patients, families and their primary care doctors to ensure that we answer every question and address every concern. At Lehigh Regional Medical Center, our focus is on patient safety, care and comfort.
Lehigh Regional Medical Center’s highly skilled surgeons utilize the latest technology and treatments to deliver quality surgical care in a wide range of specialties. When you choose Lehigh Regional Medical Center, you can count on the latest in surgical care options.
Lehigh Regional Medical Center | www.lehighmedicalgroup.com | 239-368-0241