Outpatient pediatric urologic procedures.

Outpatient pediatric urologic surgery is not a new concept. However, it has recently become extremely popular. The general experience nationwide and particularly the experience at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and the University of Virginia Hospital indicate that outpatient surgery can be very safe and satisfactory for patients. The outpatient approach requires close cooperation among anesthesiologists, surgeons, and outpatient personnel. Excellent communication with the patient and family is essential. This includes extensive educational printed material and 24-hour availability by telephone. Once the infrastructure is in place, outpatient pediatric urologic surgery results in efficient use of facilities and a more pleasant surgical experience for the patient. The psychological, social, and economic benefits of outpatient surgery make it imperative that a large percentage of pediatric procedures be done on an ambulatory basis. We do not, however, intend to suggest that all minor procedures can be done on an outpatient basis, as certain special situations will mandate hospitalization.