Outpatient Surgery

Your physician may recommend one-day or outpatient surgery at a surgical facility that is not located in the main hospital building. Due to advances in technology and anesthesia, many minimally invasive medical procedures and surgeries can take place outside of the hospital setting.

Outpatient Surgery Advantage

• Scheduling: There is less interruption in the surgical schedule. Outpatient surgery centers do not need to adjust the daily schedule to make arrangements for emergency/trauma type procedures that occur in the hospital-setting.
• Quiet surroundings: Before and after your procedure, you can relax in pleasant and quiet surroundings. Spacious, comfortable waiting areas are available for family members and friends.
• Recovery: You can recover in the comfort of your own home.

Outpatient surgery reminders

• If you have a cold, fever or any signs of an infection within one week of surgery, let your doctor know. Your doctor will tell you about any pre-operative instructions you need to follow.
• Arrange for someone to drive you home. You will not be allowed to drive yourself. An adult escort must be with you when you go home.
• Wear comfortable, loose clothing and flat shoes.
• Leave all jewelry and cash at home. If you need to pay your bill, please bring a check.
• Do not wear makeup, eye shadow or mascara. You may bring make-up to apply after surgery.
• Depending on the procedure, expect to spend three to five hours at the surgical center.

What to bring with you?

• Insurance card
• Listing of medications. Include the name of each medication, dosage, the reason you take the medication and the date and time of your last dose.
• Your doctor may advise you to bring a walker, cane or crutches to the hospital to use after your procedure. Check with your doctor about these arrangements before your procedure.
• If you wear contact lenses, bring the case so you can take them out before surgery.
• Bring your eyeglasses or hearing aid if needed.

Fasting guidelines

• Adults: All solid food must be stopped at least eight hours before surgery. You may have clear liquids (water, sugar water, non-pulp juices, soda, coffee, tea, clear broth) until two hours before surgery.
• Children: All solid food, formula and non-human (cow's) milk must be stopped at least six hours before surgery. You may have clear liquids (water, sugar water, Pedialyte®, non-pulp juices, soda, clear broth, tea) until two hours before surgery.
• Infants: Formula should be stopped six hours before surgery. Breast milk must be stopped at least four hours prior to surgery. Infants may be fed clear liquids (water, Pedialyte®, etc.) until two hours before surgery. All medications except insulin and diuretics may be taken (unless otherwise told by your anesthesiologist).