News release

From: Pasifika Medical Association Group

Same-day discharge for acute appendicectomy is safe: experience from a tertiary New Zealand hospital

This study looked at whether patients who had keyhole surgery to remove their appendix could safely go home on the same day instead of staying overnight in hospital. It found that patients discharged on the same day did just as well as those who stayed longer, with no increase in serious complications or return visits to the hospital. However, very few patients were actually sent home the same day, even though it appears to be safe. The study also found that patients who had surgery earlier in the day were more likely to go home the same day. Overall, sending suitable patients home on the same day could help reduce hospital crowding and costs while still keeping patients safe.