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. 2023 Dec 1;36(6):617-623.
doi: 10.1097/ACO.0000000000001306. Epub 2023 Aug 9.

Twenty-three-hour stays in the ambulatory surgical center: benefits, pathways and protocols

Alberto E Ardon  1 , Sindhuja Nimma  1 , Olga C Nin  2
Affiliations

Twenty-three-hour stays in the ambulatory surgical center: benefits, pathways and protocols

Alberto E Ardon et al. Curr Opin Anaesthesiol. .

Abstract

Purpose of review: To summarize recent evidence that discusses the clinical, financial, and logistical implications of a 23 h stay postsurgical stay unit in an ambulatory surgical center (ASC).

Recent findings: Twenty-three-hour stays in ambulatory surgery centers are safe, but proper patient selection and optimization are key to maintaining a high level of safety. The financial implications of overnight stays in ASCs rely heavily on payment structures and comparative costs at hospital-based outpatient surgery centers. The establishment of pathways and protocols for clinical care are key to the success of a 23 h stay at an ASC.

Summary: A concurrent concern with the recent increase in outpatient surgery and medical complexity of cases performed in an ambulatory surgical center (ASC) is the possibility that patients may need overnight stay. Further, whether certain patients would benefit from anticipated 23 h observation rather than same-day discharge is an emerging topic. Overnight stays in ASCs may have financial advantages and decrease the risk of unanticipated admission with proper patient selection. The use of protocols and established pathways is key to the success of this model.

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