The low solubility of desflurane has been shown to contribute to faster awakening from anesthesia when compared with other anesthetics in common use. However, research has failed to consistently demonstrate faster discharge times from the postanesthesia care unit following the use of desflurane. This study was undertaken to compare the recovery and discharge times of outpatients undergoing procedures greater than 2 hours in length. Thirty-three patients aged 18 to 70 years were randomized to receive either desflurane or isoflurane following a standard intravenous induction with propofol. Patients received premedication and opioids consistent with institutional practice, and inhalation agents were titrated to effect during anesthetic maintenance. Following surgery, patients were evaluated for time to emergence and time to meeting discharge criteria. The results demonstrated no differences between the emergence or discharge times following desflurane or isoflurane. In addition, measured parameters, such as intraoperative vital signs and postoperative emesis and opioid requirements, were not different between the groups. The use of desflurane as part of a balanced anesthetic technique did not speed the emergence or discharge time when compared with isoflurane.