Ambulatory surgery centers have transformed the outpatient experience for millions of people in the U.S. by giving them a more convenient option for many types of procedures. This is good news for those seeking treatment for any number of musculoskeletal conditions. In fact, more than half of all orthopaedic procedures are now performed on an ambulatory basis.

Most patients prefer to recover in the comfort of their own homes if possible. And the high quality of care and positive patient outcomes of outpatient spine and joint surgery at places like MidAmerica’s Ambulatory Surgery Center makes these centers a convenient choice for countless patients throughout Northern Illinois. But if you’ve never experienced an outpatient procedure, you may be wondering, what is an ambulatory center and how does it work?

What Does an Orthopaedic Ambulatory Surgery Center Do?

In a nutshell, these centers are modern medical facilities that provide outpatient surgery. Procedures that may have once required a hospital stay are now often performed on an outpatient basis. The words ambulatory and outpatient are sometimes interchangeable, but the center itself can still be located in a larger facility like MidAmerica Orthopaedics that also connects patients to related treatments and therapies.

If you need an operation to treat your ACL or carpal tunnel syndrome, there’s a high likelihood you’ll be in and out on the same day – and therefore can be treated at an ambulatory surgery center. More serious operations and those with higher rates of postoperative complications might require an overnight stay and therefore are not considered outpatient procedures.

What Else to Expect at Ambulatory Surgery Centers in Illinois

Just like with other types of procedures you may have had, you’ll be better prepared if you know what to expect. Here are some common aspects of outpatient procedures:

1. Patients are often restricted from driving directly after their procedure, so you may need someone to drive you home and stay with you briefly.
2. Find out what tools and guidelines will facilitate your adjustment at home.
3. Ask your physician what kind of after-effects to expect. Some discomfort is to be expected, but you’ll feel better knowing it won’t last long.
4. Pain management is a common concern. Patients should obtain written and verbal instructions for any medications or recommendations for managing pain post-surgery.
5. Be sure you know who to call if you have concerns or need emergency assistance.

How to Seek a High Level of Quality with Outpatient Surgery

When weighing their options, patients should ask questions to make sure the center they choose offers adequate attention to detail and personalized care. Your treatment will likely require professional care before and after the procedure. Find a highly skilled orthopaedic specialist who is focused on helping you achieve your goals of returning to work and everyday activities in as timely a manner as possible.

Depending on your procedure, you may want to request information about the center’s orthopaedic equipment to ensure the most advanced tools and techniques will be used. The physicians and other specialists should have the same credentials and training as those working elsewhere in the facility. Ambulatory surgery centers often provide the same or better level of care as a hospital, only at a lower cost and with speedier outcomes.

Procedures performed at Palos Hills Surgery Center 

The Palos Hills Surgery Center at MidAmerica Orthopaedics organization offers a comprehensive program of high quality, cost-effective, and patient-centered care. Its practice emphasizes the healing, well-being, and restored quality of life of every patient it sees. Patients have the comfort of knowing that a dedicated team of professionals is onsite to ensure that your experience exceeds your expectations. Surgery patients are treated for many different ailments, including:

• Emergency Surgery
• Knee Surgery
• Foot and Ankle Surgery
• Pain Management
• Hand Surgery
• Shoulder Surgery
• Arthroscopic Surgery
• Wrist Surgery
• Elbow Surgery

Ambulatory services are also a benefit to companies and organizations seeking preferred treatment facilities for their employee medical programs, particularly in combination with other supportive services. For example, the presence of MidAmerica’s Orthopaedic Immediate Care and Occupational Medicine programs allows employees to receive all of their diagnostics and care by highly rated orthopaedic specialists under the same roof.

If you’re considering outpatient surgery, contact MidAmerica Online or call our Palos hills location at 708-237-7290 to schedule an appointment. We see patients from many communities, including Evergreen Park, Burbank, Alsip, Bridgeview, Frankfort, Tinley Park, Orland Park, Homer Glen, New Lenox, Oak Lawn, and Worth.