Ambulatory surgery in an academic center: one and a half years of experience

Between May 1995 and December 1997, 452 otorhinolaryngologic ambulatory operations were carried out on 416 patients. For middle ear surgery, and partial and total ethmoidectomies, the expected hospital stay is less than 12 hours. For tonsillectomies and rhinosurgery requiring a nasal packing, the expected stay is less than 24 hours. To determine patient satisfaction and the types and frequency of complications associated with these ambulatory procedures, a 18 item multiple choice questionnaire was sent to the 416 patients, and a response rate of approximately 80% was achieved. The majority of the patients were satisfied with their ambulatory operation and would recommend it to friends and relatives. Ten percent of the patients had to be hospitalised for longer than originally expected. The reasons for these prolonged stays are described in detail. In conclusion, our results show that the newer outpatient procedures do not differ from the former inpatient procedures with regards to the types and frequency of complications.