Among 600 elective orthopaedic surgery cancellations, 48% were for avoidable reasons, most significantly patient inability to attend (13%), surgeon unavailability (8%), and lack of theatre time (6%).
Observational (n=600)
No
What are the causes of elective orthopaedic surgery cancellations and what proportion are avoidable?
Nearly half of elective orthopaedic surgery cancellations are due to avoidable reasons, highlighting the need for improved communication and administrative processes.
Abstract Background Cancellation of surgical procedures has significant physical, psychological, and financial consequences for patients and wastes hospital time and resources. Our study aimed to identify reasons for cancelling elective orthopaedic surgery at a district general NHS hospital and suggest interventions to address avoidable reasons for cancellation. Methods We performed a retrospective study to examine all elective orthopaedic procedures cancelled within 7 days of the intended surgery date for a year. The reasons for cancellation were classified as patient, clinical, or hospital factors. Results We identified 600 cancellations, of which 47% were attributed to clinical factors, 25% to patient factors, and 28% to hospital factors. 48% of cancellations were for avoidable reasons, and 52% were for unavoidable reasons. 132 (25%) of cancellations happened on the intended day of surgery. The most significant avoidable reasons for cancellation were the patient unable to attend (13%), surgeon unavailability (8%), and lack of theatre time (6%). Administrative factors relating to staff availability, equipment, and pre-operative assessment accounted for 13% of cancellations. Conclusion Avoidable reasons were responsible for many cancellations and may be prevented through improved communication with patients and between staff. Unavoidable reasons may have root causes which can be tackled.
Barrow et al. (Sat,) conducted a observational in Elective orthopaedic surgery cancellations (n=600). Evaluation of reasons for cancellation was evaluated on Reasons for cancellation (patient, clinical, or hospital factors) and avoidability. Among 600 elective orthopaedic surgery cancellations, 48% were for avoidable reasons, most significantly patient inability to attend (13%), surgeon unavailability (8%), and lack of theatre time (6%).