What does the term 'ambulatory' refer to in a surgical context?

In a surgical context, the term 'ambulatory' refers specifically to procedures that allow patients to undergo surgery and return home the same day, typically referred to as day surgery. This means that patients are not required to spend the night in a hospital, which is a defining characteristic of ambulatory care. The maximum stay of 23 hours aligns with this concept, as it emphasizes the quick recovery and discharge, allowing patients to resume everyday activities shortly after the procedure.

Ambulatory surgery is designed to minimize the use of hospital resources while providing safe and effective surgical interventions. This approach is beneficial for both patients, who can recover in the comfort of their own homes, and healthcare facilities, which can optimize their patient flow and resource management.

Categories such as inpatient surgical care with a minimum 24-hour stay, emergency surgery, and long-term rehabilitation do not fit the definition of ambulatory surgery, as they involve extended stays in the hospital or require ongoing care and monitoring.