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Day surgery for cervical microdiscectomy: is it safe and effective?
H R Silvers1, P J Lewis, L S Suddaby
1Department of Biometry, State University of New York at Buffalo, USA.
Journal of Spinal Disorders
|August 1, 1996
Summary
Outpatient cervical discectomy with fusion is safe and effective, matching inpatient outcomes. This approach offers significant potential cost savings for healthcare.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Health Economics
Background:
- Cervical discectomy with fusion is a common surgical procedure.
- Traditionally performed on an inpatient basis, its suitability for outpatient settings requires evaluation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the safety and efficacy of outpatient cervical discectomy with fusion.
- To compare outcomes of outpatient versus inpatient procedures.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study of 50 outpatients undergoing cervical discectomy with fusion.
- Comparison with 53 retrospective inpatient controls.
- Outcomes assessed via patient questionnaires and clinical examination at 1.3-1.6 years follow-up.
Main Results:
- No statistically significant differences in pain relief, functional recovery, or patient satisfaction between outpatient and inpatient groups.
- Similar complication rates (2%) and no mortality in both groups.
- Outpatient surgery demonstrated comparable safety and efficacy to inpatient surgery.
Conclusions:
- Ambulatory cervical discectomy with fusion is a safe and effective alternative to inpatient procedures.
- Conversion to outpatient settings does not compromise surgical outcomes.
- Potential annual healthcare cost savings in the US could exceed $100 million.