A prospective evaluation of the feasibility of day-case microlaryngeal surgery

An increasing number of surgical procedures are being performed on a day-case basis. In the UK otolaryngologists have been reluctant to introduce same day discharge in microlaryngeal surgery (MLS). The reason for this is the perceived risk to the airway from bleeding and oedema after MLS. The aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility of establishing a same day discharge service for MLS patients. One hundred consecutive patients under the care of one consultant otolaryngologist were recruited. A clinical street-fit assessment and objective measures of peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) and oxygen saturation (SaO 2 ) were recorded pre- and post-operatively. Results indicate that the PEFR and SaO 2 did not change significantly during the course of the study. The street-fit criteria for discharge were satisfied in 80 per cent of patients following surgery. By combining the ASA score (American Society of Anaesthesiologists) with street-fitness 63 per cent of our patients were eligible for same day discharge.