Implementation of a same-day discharge bariatric surgery program and follow-up with a telemonitoring platform

Abstract

Introduction: Some groups have initiated outpatient bariatric surgery programs in selected patients, publishing good results after sleeve gastrectomy. Recent studies show that outpatient surgery is also feasible and safe in Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. The aim of this paper is to describe and analyze the results of our initial experience after the implementation of a same-day discharge bariatric surgery program using a telemonitoring system.

Methods: We have completed a prospective, observational study with 14 consecutive, selected patients undergoing primary bariatric surgery (sleeve gastrectomy or Roux-en-Y gastric bypass) at a single center from April 2021 to February 2023, with home follow-up using the REVITA® telemonitoring platform (HI Iberia, S.A.) and the Home Hospitalization Unit.

Results: From April 2021 to February 2023, 14 patients were selected for this program, which meant 7.3% of the total of 191 patients who underwent bariatric surgery during this period. Ten out of the 14 patients selected completed the circuit (71.4%), 4 of whom consulted the emergency department within the first 24 h (40%). There were no serious complications, readmissions or re-operations typical of bariatric surgery. The estimated savings per patient who completed the circuit was 762.

Conclusion: Bariatric surgery without hospital admission is feasible and safe in selected patients using a telemonitoring platform and with the support of a home hospitalization unit.

Keywords: Alta mismo día; Ambulatory surgery; Bariatric surgery; Cirugía bariátrica; Cirugía mayor ambulatoria; Cirugía robótica; Monitoring; Remote; Robotic surgery; Same-Day discharge; Telemonitorización.