By George Dumas, MD

In this edition of the newsletter, we are pleased to present articles by OAS members Sue Wolf, PA-C, and Derek Sakata, MD. 

With the ever increasing cost of healthcare and surgery, there is a push to perform more procedures at ambulatory facilities and reduce unnecessary testing. However, some preoperative testing may be indicated and some procedures are best performed in the traditional hospital environment.  It will always be important to have patients “optimized” before surgery. At my institution, there is tremendous pressure to move cases that have been traditionally performed in the hospital setting to lower acuity facilities. 

Ms. Wolf will explore the utility of preoperative testing and its consequences.  Dr. Sakata will present ASC guidelines and suitability of surgery in settings with fewer resources. 

We are always open to newsletter suggestions and hope that the updated format of OASIS provides an enhanced reading experience. I know that you will enjoy reading this latest edition of OASIS.

George A. Dumas MD
Editor, OASIS

Caption: Sample of an algorithm used to screen and manage surgical patients at risk for OSA, from Open Access: Preoperative testing and risk assessment: perspectives on patient selection in ambulatory anesthetic procedures)