ObjectiveTo assess the efficacy and safety of pediatric day surgery (PDS) program. MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed 148 pediatric surgeries between June 2012 and June 2013, including 31 for cryptorchidism, 53 for concealed penis, and 64 for hernia. According to the operation mode, these children were divided into PDS group and in-patient group. Analysis of the postoperative complications and hospital stay, and hospitalization expenses was carried out. ResultsThere was no statistical differences on success rate of operation, re-admission rate, postoperative fever, and postoperation nausea and vomiting between the two groups (P>0.05). But compared with the in-patient group, hospitalization expenses, medical cost, therapeutic treatment fee and hospital stay were significantly lower or shorter in the PDS group (P<0.05). ConclusionPDS is a safe and cost-effective program that reduces the average hospitalization days, reduces the per capita hospitalization cost, increases the turnover of beds, and benefits the child and the family.