The advantages of outpatient Charleston back surgery

First, let’s define what “same day surgery” is and what it isn’t. Same day surgery is an outpatient procedure, meaning you go in for the surgery, recover under the watchful eyes of professionals and then return home to complete your recuperation. Same day surgery doesn’t mean a surprise mandate from your doctor during a routine check-up.

Especially when it pertains to Charleston back surgery, same day surgery is a planned operation often scheduled in an ambulatory surgery center (ASC). The surgery is usually minor or routine, and your full recovery doesn’t require constant medical supervision. Same day surgery, in other words, is a smart idea. Here’s why.

1. Reduced Costs

When you can have your surgery in an ASC instead of in a hospital, you’ll save money. You get the same medical professionals caring for you as in a hospital. An ASC is a fully functional operating suite, instead of one of many operating rooms within a hospital complex.

Another factor keeping costs down for Charleston back surgery in an ASC is the lack of overnight facilities. Since you will be spending the night after your surgery at home, the facility doesn’t need to maintain an extra room for that purpose.

2. Just as Safe

Surgery in an ambulatory surgery center is just as safe as the same procedure in a hospital. The Southeastern Spine Institute, in particular, has the only ASC specifically outfitted for spinal surgery in South Carolina. Most ASCs are inspected regularly and certified by one of several certification organizations, such as:

• The American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities (AAAASF)
• The Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC)
• Healthcare Facilities Accreditation Program (HFAP)
• The Joint Commission

3. Convenience

If you were to have your surgery performed in a hospital, you have to get there in the morning, wait around until they’re ready for you and often spend the night there. Meanwhile, your family has to drive back and forth to drop you off, check in on you and pick you up. It’s never an easy process.

On the other hand, since the ASC is on SSI’s campus, you don’t need to go anywhere new. You come in for your appointment prepared (see below) for your Charleston back surgery, and you go home the same day to recuperate. It’s not only convenient, but it saves you and your family time as well.

4. Easier Recovery

Outpatient Charleston back surgery uses the latest endoscopic techniques. Your spinal surgeon makes a tiny incision through which he passes a camera and his tools. Often, he can repair the damage to your spine and surrounding tissue without creating new damage. All this makes your recovery much easier and safer.

You also will appreciate being able to recuperate at home instead of in the hospital. The food will be better, for one, and you will be more comfortable in your own bed than in a strange bed in a strange room. Being at home will speed your recovery.

Preparing for Your Charleston Back Surgery

Your spinal surgeon will provide you with a list of instructions before your surgery. Follow them. These are instructions, not recommendations.

You cannot eat or drink anything after midnight the night before your procedure since it increases the risk of complications. You may be advised to stop taking certain medications. Arrange to have a family member or friend drive you home. You will not be discharged until your ride is present.

For more information regarding how to prepare for your same day Charleston back surgery, see our website page Preparing for Outpatient Surgery.