The first four years' experience of day case orthopaedic surgery in a district general hospital.

Clinical data were obtained for 2838 consecutive patients admitted to a new day case unit in a district general hospital by four consultant surgeons between 1 October 1981 and 30 September 1985. Surgical procedures under general anaesthesia: on 2581 patients were analysed in detail. Intra-articular arthroscopic surgery was performed on 60% of knees. A fifth of patients had manipulation and intra-articular infection of a joint. Surgical operations involving the hands and forearm were required by 17%. Toe surgery was performed on 11% of patients of whom 21% had a distal metatarsal osteotomy. Overnight admission was necessary for 6% of patients because of postanaesthetic difficulties, the operation occurring too late in the day or proving more extensive. The use of day case facilities was an economic saving, pleased 98% of patients and reduced waiting list time significantly, except for patients with serious chronic joint disorders. The waiting list for total hip and knee replacements increased in the four year period.