NCEPOD review of the peri-operative care of surgical patients and implementation in obstetrics and gynaecology

Abstract

A recent report published by the National Confidential Enquiry into Patient Outcome and Death (NCEPOD) has shown shortcomings in the peri-operative care of high risk surgical patients in the United Kingdom. The review found that there were deficiencies in pre-operative assessment, intra-operative management and post-operative care. The report has generated a number of recommendations with the aim of improving the management of high risk surgical patients, and the delivery and planning of care. There are increasing numbers of high risk surgical patients in obstetrics and gynaecology, linked to factors such as advancing age, increased body mass index (BMI) and higher prevalence of co-morbidities. The report is clearly applicable to our patient population, and it is therefore important that the findings are reviewed and the recommendations implemented in women's healthcare.