The feasibility of an ambulatory surgery service for military personnel.

ABSTRACT

In the past, ambulatory surgery has been considered unsuitable for military personnel. In this pilot study, 69 members of the Israel Defense Forces underwent a variety of surgical procedures on an ambulatory basis in a central, university-affiliated general hospital. The waiting time for surgery was considerably reduced. The patients, the army, and the hospital staff were satisfied with the service. Although further study is needed, ambulatory surgery appears to be a suitable and advantageous modality for military personnel.