To assess the magnitude and causes of the cancellation of elective surgical cases in a tertiary hospital: A retrospective study

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the magnitude and causes of the cancellation of elective surgical cases in a tertiary hospital. Methods: This retrospective observational study was conducted in the Department of Orthopedics, Pt. B.D Sharma PGIMS, Rohtak over three months after obtaining ethical approval from the concerned authority. Data from 200 patients were screened, including age, gender, planned procedure, reasons for cancellation, and case cancellations. Results: The mean age of the study subjects was 40±14.6 years. The majority were males (65%), most lived in rural areas (64%), and 70% had their surgeries canceled. Cancellations were due to medical reasons (e.g., comorbidities, need for interruption of antiplatelet treatment, need for ECHO, optimization of blood sugar/blood pressure) in 8 patients, delay in Ayushman Bharat registration in 3 patients, non-availability of blood for transfusion in 2 patients, and non-availability of implants in 1 patient. Conclusion: The study concluded that most surgical delays were due to avoidable organizational reasons. Improvements in patient care protocols, pre-operative assessments, and resource availability (e.g., implants, blood) are essential. Documentation of cancellations/delays and clear communication with patients/attendants are also crucial.