What type of surgery is referred to as being performed on an outpatient basis?

Ambulatory surgery refers specifically to procedures that are performed on an outpatient basis, meaning that patients can have the surgery and return home on the same day without needing to stay overnight in a hospital. This type of surgery is designed to minimize hospital stays and ensure that patients can recover in the comfort of their own homes, thus making it a more efficient option for both patients and healthcare facilities.

In contrast, inpatient surgery requires the patient to be admitted to the hospital for at least one night for observation and recovery post-procedure. Emergency surgery generally refers to surgeries that are performed in immediate response to a medical emergency, often requiring rapid decision-making and resources that may involve hospital admission. Elective surgery is planned in advance and may or may not be performed on an outpatient basis, depending on the nature of the procedure and the patient's medical condition. Therefore, the classification of ambulatory surgery distinctly identifies it as suited for outpatient care, highlighting its efficiency and convenience.