Evaluation of the Causes of Cancellation of Cases on the Day of Surgery

Abstract

Background: Cancellation of elective operation on the day of surgery is a common phenomenon in all hospitals, which is a great concern in countries like India with limited resources. This study was aimed to assess incidence and causes for this which will help to enhance efficiency and minimize wastage of resources and manpower.Subjects and Methods:The study was carried out over six months and included all patients posted for elective surgery. The reasons for cancellation were classified into four types - anaesthesia related, patient related, surgeon related and hospital/resource related.Statistical analysis: Descriptive and basic analytical statistics were used and data is expressed as number and percentage.Results:A total of 4447 patients were posted for surgery during the study period of which 595 patients were cancelled on the day of surgery with a cancellation rate of 13.37 %. Highest cancellation rate was found in Orthopaedics (39.65%) followed by ENT (14.32%), General Surgery(10.02%) and Obstetrics and Gynaecology (8.53 %). Maximum cancellations were due to surgeon related factors (46.72%) followed by anaesthesia related (21.68%), patient related (20%) and hospital/resource related (11.6%).Conclusion:Most of the reasons for cancellation are potentially avoidable. If causes are identified and appropriately addressed to the efficiency of OT can be improved. Regular audits are regularly recommended.