Where Should You Have Surgery?
Surgeries are necessary to diagnose or treat a range of mild to severe conditions. Some surgeries are emergencies, but most are elective in nature. Elective surgeries are not life-threatening, and the patient has some control over when the procedure can happen. Millions of surgeries are typically performed in hospitals. However, the rise of ambulatory surgical centers (ASCs) gives patients another option. These facilities have been growing in popularity.
Your ASC benefits
Ambulatory surgical centers are unique facilities focusing on same-day, minimally invasive procedures. ASCs have a collection of surgeons and nurses known for performing surgeries efficiently and effectively. The patient arrives at the facility on the day, and the surgery is performed. Both diagnostic and repair procedures can be performed at ASCs. Ligament repair, joint replacements, endoscopic procedures, and cosmetic surgery are all examples of surgeries performed in this setting. Here are 4 common myths that may stop patients from enjoying the many benefits of surgical centers.
1. Hospitals are safer
Surgeries are delicate procedures, and most patients have some anxiety. Many believe a hospital is the best place to have elective surgeries in case of a complication or emergency. However, ASCs have minimal complications. These facilities use minimally invasive techniques and the latest technology to reduce errors. Surgical centers have highly skilled surgeons capable of addressing any complications. These facilities also reduce contact with patients with infectious diseases, minimizing the chance of infection or illness. The safety and satisfaction rates of ASCs are just as high, if not higher, than hospitals.
2. You will get rescheduled
Patients are accustomed to surgery needing to be rescheduled in hospitals. Elective surgery is often placed on hold if the surgeon is called to an emergency case. Rescheduling can frustrate the patient, waste time, and increase costs. Ambulatory surgical centers excel by ensuring the patient receives surgery on the scheduled day. The surgeons are often private practitioners, closely tied to the facility. If there is an emergency, another capable surgeon intervenes, ensuring the promise to the patient is kept.
3. The promise of same-day surgery
For many patients, leaving the same day after surgery sounds too good to be true. Most doctors in the hospital want patients to stay at least 1 night to monitor for complications. However, since procedures done at a surgical center are minimally invasive, there is less scarring and blood loss. ASC facilities also invest in technology like robot-arm-assisted surgery, increasing accuracy further. When surgery is done at an ASC, the patient can leave on the same day with the help of a loved one.
4. ASCs are expensive
The facilities may look top-of-the-line. However, surgeries performed at an ambulatory surgical center are generally cheaper when compared to a conventional hospital. The minimally invasive techniques and quick patient discharge help keep costs low. The larger medical community acknowledges the value of ASCs, with some centers even created inside hospitals. These low costs are then passed on to the patient.
Same-day power
Surgeries, even minimally invasive ones, can be stressful for the patient. Risks are always involved, so patients want a safe, smooth experience. Ambulatory surgical centers can provide a safe setting with the added benefit of leaving on the same day. The patient can recover in the comfort of the home with less post-operative pain. If surgery is on the horizon, a family doctor can refer to an ASC in the area.
