[Cost-effectiveness of a hallux valgus day-surgery program].

INTRODUCTION The development of one-day surgery units has shown to be a better use of health resources without reducing quality. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness and quality criteria of ambulatory surgery program in the Hallux valgus process. MATERIAL AND METHODS A retrospective study was conducted on a sample of 753 patients who underwent a Hallux valgus process at our institution between 2002 and 2012 (292 in ambulatory surgery cohort and 461 in hospitalization group). The cost-process was evaluated using the Weighted Care Unitas a measuring unit. Secondary data were collected as regards discharge criteria and patient satisfaction. RESULTS A significant difference was found between Weighted Care Unit spending on in-patient surgery and out-patient surgery. Both samples were comparable and no differences were found between diagnosis and intervention. The admission rate after ambulatory surgery was 2.39%, and the substitution index increased to 56.04%. The ambulatory surgery program was given a satisfaction rating of 84.6 out of 100. CONCLUSIONS The results of our study indicate that it is possible to maximize the substitution index of the Hallux valgus process leading to a better use of resources and a high degree of patient satisfaction.