Ambulatory microsurgery for XXXX : report of ten cases.

@entity1 @entity1798
Advances in microsurgical techniques combined with a widening interest in same-day surgery led us to investigate ambulatory lumbar discectomy. We could find no precedent in the literature. Ten @entity1 with classic @entity1798 confirmed by computed tomography chose to participate. They were aged 31 to 51, seven @entity1 and three @entity1 , in excellent general health. A microsurgical approach through a 25-mm skin incision was performed. The technique emphasized removal of sufficient medial facet to allow excision of the disc with minimal or no root retraction. Once awake in the recovery room, @entity1 were transferred to a separate ambulatory step-down unit. They were discharged only after they had voided, ambulated, taken oral nourishment, and been examined by the surgeon. A visiting nurse checked the @entity1 at home the evening of operation and the next day. All returned to their usual occupation between 3 and 14 days postoperatively. All were satisfied and would choose the outpatient program again. Our experience indicates that ambulatory lumbar microdiscectomy can be a safe, effective option for selected @entity1 .
