Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 28, 2026
Endoscopic Bilateral Nipple-sparing Mastectomy via a Single Axillary Incision with Immediate Pre-pectoral Implant-based Breast Reconstruction
Published on: May 17, 2024
Ambulatory mastectomy
1University of Oklahoma Breast Institute, 825 NE 10th St., Suite 5200, Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City 73104, USA.
Background:
Ambulatory mastectomy has been a topic of heated political debate with little analysis of clinical data.
Methods:
Based on extensive satisfaction surveys, an ideal surgical treatment experience was developed that decreased nausea, increased preoperative education, and reduced perioperative narcotic usage. Using this new algorithm, patients treated by a single surgeon were given the choice of overnight stay versus discharge to home with visiting nurse care.
Results:
From March 1 to October 31, 2001, 92 mastectomies or lumpectomy/axillary dissections were performed in 87 patients. One patient chose to remain in the center overnight. All others were discharged in less than 2.5 hours postoperatively. Perioperative complications fell to 20% of those of the prior year. Hospital charges fell 79.5%.
Conclusions:
Despite lay reservations about ambulatory mastectomy, a detailed approach can result in markedly reduced health care costs without incurring additional morbidity or mortality.
