[Outpatient vitreoretinal surgery without next-day examination: Feasibility and acceptability]

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Surgical Care
• Patient Outcomes

Background:

• Ambulatory vitreoretinal surgery requires careful post-operative monitoring.
• Traditional care often includes next-day examinations, potentially increasing healthcare burden.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility of outpatient management for vitreoretinal surgery patients.
• To assess patient acceptability and satisfaction with care not requiring a next-day examination.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 53 ambulatory vitreoretinal surgeries (November 2013-February 2016).
• Data collected included patient demographics, surgical details, and post-operative outcomes at D0, D7, and M1.
• Patient satisfaction was assessed via phone interviews.

Main Results:

• All 49 patients (mean age 70) were suitable for discharge on post-operative day 0.
• Minor complications included one subconjunctival hemorrhage, seven cases of elevated intraocular pressure, and two vitreous hemorrhages.
• 55.1% of patients were contacted, and all reported satisfaction with outpatient management.

Conclusions:

• Outpatient management without mandatory next-day examination is a viable option for vitreoretinal surgery.
• This model of care is well-accepted by patients, demonstrating high satisfaction levels.