WVU Medicine Children’s Pediatric Urology patients who undergo a robotic procedure can return home on the same day they enter the hospital. The Same Day Discharge (SDD) Program is the only program of its kind in North America. It applies to all pediatric robotic procedures, regardless of the type of surgery.
“Prolonged hospital stays are associated with increased school and work absences, decreased productivity, a higher risk of hospital-acquired infections, exposure to potential medical errors, and increased direct and indirect healthcare costs,” Osama AL-Omar, M.D., M.B.A., chief of WVU Medicine Children’s Pediatric Urology, said. “SDD helps mitigate these risks while supporting faster recovery in the comfort of the patient’s home.”
The SDD Program at WVU Medicine Children’s, which was first implemented in 2019, was featured in a recent Journal of Pediatric Urology article titled, “Same-day discharge for robotic-assisted pediatric urologic surgeries in rural settings: Are we ready to take the leap?”
Dr. AL-Omar has studied the benefits of SDD for patients, specifically those who travel greater distances for their care, since the Program began.
“SDD does not increase the risk of post-operative complications or compromise the quality of care,” AL-Omar said.
Families are presented with SDD as an option while reviewing surgical plans during their initial clinic visit. Those conversations continue throughout the day of surgery. The care team reviews warning signs, outlines available resources, and provides a detailed follow-up plan to the family before discharge.
“Our mission is to provide the highest standard of care to our pediatric patients while continuously advancing clinical excellence,” AL-Omar said.
“Currently being the only pediatric hospital in North America to offer a Same Day Discharge Program for all robotic procedures reflects our commitment to innovation, improved surgical outcomes, patient safety, and enhancing the quality of life for children and their families. We are proud to lead the way in redefining pediatric surgical care.”
For more information on WVU Medicine Children’s, visit WVUKids.com.
