Trend: Ambulatory Surgery – Lead the Way in the Future of Medicine
An Ambulatory Surgical Center, also known as an outpatient clinic or Ambulatory Operations Center (AOZ), is a medical facility specifically designed for ambulatory surgery. Unlike hospitals that focus on inpatient stays, an Ambulatory Surgical Center enables surgical procedures with the possibility of returning home on the same day. Thanks to advances in medical procedures and technologies, many surgical interventions are performed more quickly and safely. As a result, more and more surgical procedures are becoming ambulatory surgeries. This increasingly popular alternative to inpatient stays offers a range of benefits for both patients and the healthcare system.
Content
- The Advantages of an Ambulatory Surgical Center: Quality and Comfort for Patients and Hospitals
- Optimized Processes in the Ambulatory Surgical Center: Efficiency and Mobility
- The Advantages of Mobile Operating Tables
- These Aspects should be Considered when Planning an Ambulatory Surgical Center
- 4 Effective Tips for Ambulatory Surgery
- This is why the BRUMABA Operating Table VARIUS is Perfect for Ambulatory Surgeries
SIDE NOTE: Disadvantages of Prolonged Bed Rest
- Respiratory System:
Infections, embolism - Cardiovascular System:
Thromboses, hypotension - Musculoskeletal System:
Loss of muscle strength, 1-3% loss of muscle mass per day, contractures, reduced endurance - Psychological:
Depression, anxiety, confusion, loss of self-confidence - Skin:
Decubitus ulcers - Gastrointestinal:
Incontinence, infections, constipation
The Advantages of an Ambulatory Surgical Center: Quality and Comfort for Patients and Hospitals
Hospitals are complex organizations with numerous complex processes. An Ambulatory Surgical Center, on the other hand, has one primary task: performing operations on healthy or at least stabilized individuals who can go home on the same day. This allows for a simple and safe procedure with less staff.
An Ambulatory Surgical Center offers a wealth of advantages for both patients and hospitals. Through first-class medical services in a pleasant environment, the Ambulatory Surgical Center represents an attractive option.
Advantages for Hospitals
Cost Savings: Compared to inpatient cases, ambulatory TKA cases treated with AKS showed similar 90-day outcomes at lower costs. (Study: Mantel et al., Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research, 2023)
Time Savings
Space Optimization
Staff Optimization
Improved ROI
Ambulatory Surgery offers significant cost advantages and enables a more efficient use of resources. Compared to inpatient procedures, the costs for hospital stays and overnight accommodations are eliminated. Without inpatient beds and with the effective use of operating rooms, hospitals can treat more patients with less staff and reduce waiting times. At the same time, the shift of operations to Ambulatory Surgical Centers contributes to reducing space and bed requirements in hospitals.
Advantages for Patients
Safety: Hospitals can be sources of nosocomial infections, i.e., infections acquired in the hospital. Ambulatory surgery reduces the risk of such an infection, as the patient spends less time in the Surgical Center. Only “stable,” healthy patients are treated there.
Comfort: Ambulatory surgeries allow patients to remain in their familiar and comfortable environment. Familiar surroundings promote recovery.
Autonomy: Patients do not become dependent on the hospital and surgical staff. This is particularly crucial for elderly patients.
Mindset: Patients are not treated like “sick people” and thus develop a completely different internal attitude than during an inpatient stay. This can positively influence recovery.
Faster Recovery: Advances in anesthesia and pain control have made it possible for patients to better manage pain after ambulatory surgeries. This contributes to faster recovery and a return to normal activities.
Optimized Processes in the Ambulatory Surgical Center: Efficiency and Mobility
A central success factor in the Ambulatory Surgical Center lies in establishing short and effectively organized workflows. Therefore, the Ambulatory Surgical Center should be clearly separated from the rest of the hospital or, ideally, freestanding. A smooth flow between the reception area, the recovery area, the pre-operative area, and the actual operating area is the focus. Mobile Operating Tables make this possible, as there are no beds in the Ambulatory Surgical Center.
The Advantages of Mobile Operating Tables
Relevant studies confirm that mobile Operating Tables not only save time and money but also offer additional safety benefits, as the reduced effort in lifting and handling patients, in particular, relieves medical staff and minimizes potential risks.
- If only 1 hour of time is saved per day thanks to mobile Operating Tables, and the estimated operating room costs per hour are approximately €2,000, a mobile Operating Table pays for itself in less than 1 month.
- Patients who are still drowsy and cannot move independently leave the operating room faster.
- Furthermore, the risk of injury to the patient and staff during transfer is eliminated. Such injuries could otherwise cause unforeseen, significant costs.
Mobile Operating Tables enable high flexibility and adaptability. Their mobility allows them to be seamlessly moved between the different areas of the Surgical Center, leading to increased efficiency of all workflows. The precise adjustability of the Operating Tables enables medical staff to position the patient optimally and facilitate access for the procedure.
Furthermore, mobile Operating Tables contribute to increased patient comfort. Their adjustable functions allow them to be individually tailored to the needs and requirements of each patient. This not only promotes their well-being but also enables the safe and effective execution of operations.
Overall, effective workflows and the use of suitable, mobile Operating Tables play a crucial role in the optimal functionality of an Ambulatory Surgical Center. They not only support the efficiency and flexibility of the staff but also contribute to patient satisfaction and safety.
Side Note: Risks of Patients Walking Independently in the Surgical Center
In some Ambulatory Surgical Centers, patients are allowed to walk independently from the recovery room to the operating area. However, this practice can entail several problems:
- Field of Vision and Unease: By walking independently, patients have a wider field of vision and might see things that disturb or unsettle them. Medical equipment or other patients in the operating area can intensify fears and lead to increased nervous strain.
- Unpredictable Timeframe: If patients walk independently to the operating room, unnecessary delays can occur.
- Additional Risk of Injury: This independent walking carries an additional risk of injuries or falls, especially for elderly individuals.
For both the safety and well-being of patients, these risks should be minimized.
These Aspects should be Considered when Planning an Ambulatory Surgical Center
These Aspects Should Be Considered When Planning an Ambulatory Surgical Center
Parking and Entrance:
It is important to ensure a short distance between the parking lot and the entrance of the center. Ideally, the path should be covered to protect patients from weather conditions. Clear signage also makes it easier for patients to find the center without problems and avoids initial uncertainties.
Waiting Area:
A small, well-organized waiting area is usually sufficient with good surgical planning, as patients hardly have to spend any time in the waiting area. This contributes to an improved patient experience.
Equipment:
The equipment of the operating rooms should meet the requirements of the operations offered. Typically, 5-6 Operating Tables per operating room are recommended to ensure a smooth process.
Staffing Requirements:
Depending on the scope of the Ambulatory Surgical Center, 1-2 nurses and additional assistants are usually required.
Interior Design:
The interior design of the center should aim to minimize corners. An open design creates a better overview for the medical staff, especially the nurses, and conveys a sense of spaciousness and openness to patients instead of confinement.
Changing Room:
A small changing room for patients is important to allow them to comfortably change before and after the procedure. Lockers or storage compartments also enable patients to store personal belongings without worry.
Central Recovery Room:
A central recovery area is of great importance for nursing staff for efficient patient monitoring. This allows potential complications to be quickly identified and appropriately responded to.
4 Effective Tips for Ambulatory Surgery
- Change the Paradigm: All surgical procedures are initially ambulatory procedures.
- Separate processes or premises from the inpatient facility whenever possible. Separate premises enable independent management and increase ROI.
- Deploy independent nursing staff with the right “ambulatory mindset” there.
- As long as there is a ward with empty beds in the hospital, they will be occupied. Reduce the number of beds with an Ambulatory Surgical Center. It’s like your garage: no matter how big it is, it will always be filled with things as long as there is space. Patients are therefore placed directly on Operating Tables. These are real Operating Tables that can be converted into chairs. This eliminates the need to transfer patients. This is very efficient, saves time, and protects your staff’s backs.
This is why the BRUMABA Operating Table VARIUS is Perfect for Ambulatory Surgeries
The BRUMABA Operating Table VARIUS is an all-rounder for many medical procedures and therefore the ideal choice for ambulatory surgery.
Reliability and Solidity:
The BRUMABA Operating Table VARIUS is characterized by its robust construction, which provides a reliable and stable platform for surgical procedures. Thanks to its solid design, it ensures the necessary stability throughout the entire surgical process.
Easy Operation
The VARIUS Operating Table is deliberately designed as a low-tech option to enable simple and straightforward handling. This makes it easier for medical staff to operate and adjust the table, allowing them to focus on patient care.
Low Maintenance:
The VARIUS Operating Table requires little maintenance, saving time and resources. Thanks to its durable construction and high-quality materials, it remains reliable and functional over long periods.
Flexibility:
The BRUMABA VARIUS Operating Table is versatile and can be adapted to various surgical needs. It offers a wide range of adjustment options to meet the requirements of different operations.
Airplane-function:
A special feature of the VARIUS Operating Table is the Airplane-function. By tilting the operating field, the medical staff’s backs are protected, and an ergonomic working position is enabled. This contributes to a comfortable and efficient workflow.
Continuous Product Improvement:
BRUMABA places great importance on continuous innovation and adapting products to the needs of medical professionals. Thus, the VARIUS Operating Table meets the highest standards.
Open Attachment System:
The VARIUS Operating Table features an open attachment system that is compatible with various adapters. This makes it flexible and usable with a wide range of accessories and medical devices.
Easy Handling:
The VARIUS Operating Table can be effortlessly pushed with two fingers, facilitating the transport and positioning of the table.
With the BRUMABA VARIUS Operating Table, you receive an all-inclusive package that offers the right choice for every operation. Discover the diverse possibilities of the BRUMABA VARIUS Operating Table for ambulatory surgery and experience maximum comfort, flexibility, and functionality.
FAQs on Ambulatory Surgery and Ambulatory Surgical Centers
What are the Advantages for Clinics with an Outpatient Surgical Center?
- Cost and time savings
- Space and personnel optimization
- Improved ROI
What are the Benefits for Patients Undergoing Outpatient Surgery?
Can’t Patients also Go Independently from the Recovery Room to the OR?
What Disadvantages Can Patients Experience from Prolonged Bed Rest?
- Respiratory infections and embolism
- Thrombosis and hypotension
- Loss of muscle strength (1-3% loss of muscle mass per day), contractures, reduced endurance
- Depression, anxiety, confusion, loss of self-confidence
- Pressure ulcers (skin)
- Incontinence, infections, constipation