Minimal Incisions, Maximum Time Off
Surgeons perform millions of minimally invasive procedures yearly for diagnostic and elective purposes. Minimally invasive surgery means the surgeon uses small incisions to access the surgical site. A device called a scope allows the surgeon to view the surgical site and perform the procedure without making a major incision. Regardless of the procedure, surgery requires downtime for the body to heal. The doctor usually recommends time off work to minimize the risk of postoperative complications and maximize healing. However, some patients are unable to take significant time off work. By choosing to have surgery done at an ambulatory care center (ASC), a patient may get the best of both worlds.
Can an ASC help?
An ambulatory surgical center is a healthcare facility focused on same-day outpatient procedures. These facilities are run by fantastic surgeons and nurses focused on performing minimally invasive surgeries. ASCs perform various procedures, including cosmetic, diagnostic, and repair surgeries. A patient can enter the facility, have the surgery done, and leave on the same day. For patients who cannot afford ample time at home recovering, ASCs can reduce the timeline in several ways.
Surgery on your time
With an ambulatory surgical center, patients can schedule surgeries at specific times. Hospital times are not guaranteed, as the surgeon may have to reschedule due to an emergent issue. ASCs, on the other hand, work with the patient to ensure the surgery happens at a suitable date and time. For example, a patient can schedule the surgery on a Friday afternoon, minimizing the time out of the office.
Fewer complications
Ambulatory surgical centers are high-quality facilities focused on patient health and safety. Infections are more common in hospitals that house other patients with infectious conditions. Since ASCs don’t treat people with contagious illnesses, the risk of transmission is much lower. Additionally, minimally invasive surgery means smaller incisions, which reduces the chances of post-operative infections and complications.
Reduce postoperative pain
When applicable, some ASCs encourage a rapid recovery protocol. This means the patient begins physical therapy (PT) and pain management treatment weeks before surgery. A rapid recovery approach, along with minimally invasive surgery, increases the chance that the patient can resume work sooner. Some ASC facilities use techniques like robotic surgery. This is a unique device preprogrammed with the patient's specific needs. The surgeon can then work faster with higher accuracy. Robotic surgery means the patient feels less pain and is encouraged to resume daily activities earlier.
The ASC advantage
All patients need some recovery time after surgery. Some procedures require just a few days of downtime, while others need much longer. Minimally invasive surgery can reduce recovery time significantly. ASCs ensure the patient receives the surgery on time while reducing infections and complications. Patients can receive all the benefits of surgery and get back to work sooner.
