Outpatient lumbar surgery, also called same-day surgery, is becoming increasingly common. Advances in surgical techniques and anesthesia have made same-day discharges possible, allowing for faster recoveries, lower costs, and greater comfort. NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute provides same-day procedures, when possible, for patients in New Jersey, Florida, and Pennsylvania. Here, we discuss outpatient surgery and when it is an option for our patients.
Key Takeaways
- Outpatient lumbar surgery refers to lumbar spine surgery where patients go home the same day as their treatment, as opposed to staying in the hospital.
- Whether a patient is a good candidate for outpatient surgery depends on the type of procedure, their overall health, the anesthesia to be used, and their home environment.
- Most outpatient lumbar surgeries use minimally invasive techniques that reduce surgical trauma, allowing for less pain and a faster recovery.
- Careful monitoring during recovery is essential for outpatient lumbar surgery.
What Is Outpatient Lumbar Surgery?
Outpatient lumbar surgery refers to lower back procedures where patients can go home the same day as their treatment. This is to contrast with inpatient procedures, where patients stay at the hospital for one or more nights. The decision between outpatient and inpatient treatment depends on a variety of factors:
- Procedure: More invasive procedures are likely to be performed on an inpatient basis, while minimally invasive procedures can be outpatient.
- Health: Outpatient surgery is safest for patients who are in good health. If there is a high risk of complications, then inpatient treatment allows for closer monitoring.
- Anesthesia: Some forms of anesthesia, sedation, and pain management require inpatient monitoring, while others allow for a same-day discharge.
- Home: Patients are more likely to qualify for outpatient care if they have support from family members and a good home environment for recovery.
- Preference: In some cases, the patient may have the freedom to choose whether they go home the same day or continue receiving care at the hospital.
If a patient receives outpatient surgery but feels too sick to leave the hospital, they can request a transfer to inpatient care. NU-Spine prioritizes patient safety and honors these requests whenever possible.
Spine Procedures Commonly Performed as Outpatient Surgery
Inpatient treatment remains the safest option for many types of spine surgery. For certain procedures, however, NU-Spine uses advanced techniques that reduce surgical trauma and the risk of complications. These techniques allow patients to go home sooner. Same-day procedures at NU-Spine include:
- Lumbar microdiscectomy
- Thoracic microdiscectomy
- Cervical microdiscectomy
- Cervical disc replacement
- Cervical spinal fusion
- Spinal decompression
The key difference is minimally invasive technology. Minimally invasive spine surgeries use advanced tools to work through as small an incision as possible. By reducing the amount of cutting required, they limit the amount of trauma caused to the body. This allows for less pain, a lower risk of infection and other complications, and a faster recovery.
Safety, Monitoring, and Complication Prevention
While outpatient lumbar surgery may allow patients to go home early after treatment, that does not mean they have no recovery time. In fact, recovery after same-day surgery is especially important. Patients are closely monitored to make sure their vital signs are stable, and they have basic functionality before discharge. Surgeons also make sure that the person has a safe home environment and help from family members while handling their recovery needs, such as:
- Regularly taking antibiotic medications
- Keeping their incision site protected and clean
- Performing light exercises to promote blood flow
- Avoiding strenuous tasks, including housework
- Watching for warning signs of infection
Routine follow-up appointments will be scheduled for additional guidance and opportunities to monitor the patient’s recovery.
Learn More About Outpatient Lumbar Surgery Near You in NJ, FL, or PA
Spine surgery does not always mean a hospital stay. NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute specializes in minimally invasive techniques that may make outpatient lumbar surgery possible. Contact us today to learn more or schedule an appointment at one of our New Jersey, Florida, and Pennsylvania locations.
Outpatient Lumbar Surgery FAQ
Is outpatient lumbar surgery as safe as staying overnight?
Depending on the procedure and the patient’s overall health, outpatient lumbar surgery can be as safe as staying overnight. You can ask your spine surgeon whether your treatment can be safely performed on an outpatient basis.
What if I feel too unwell to go home the same day?
If you planned an outpatient procedure but feel too unwell to go home the same day, then you can request a transfer to inpatient care. NU-Spine will arrange a room for you.
Will my insurance cover outpatient lumbar surgery?
Because outpatient lumbar surgery involves lower costs than inpatient surgery, insurance companies may be more likely to cover it. Contact your insurance agent if you want to learn more about coverage for your treatment.