Factors Contributing To Surgery Cancellations: Analyzing Causes, Impact, And Strategies For Reducing Inefficiencies In Hospital Operations

Abstract

Healthcare spending has risen significantly, with a substantial portion allocated to hospital services, making the efficient management of hospital operations crucial. One major contributor to hospital inefficiency and resource wastage is the cancellation of surgeries. This study aimed to investigate the reasons behind surgery cancellations in a hospital setting. Out of 8,256 surgeries, 166 (4%) were canceled. Data was collected by reviewing patient files, and a checklist was developed to categorize the reasons for cancellation. Key factors identified included high-risk underlying diseases (24.7%), patient non-attendance (12.8%), changes in clinical status (9.1%), unavailability of operation theater time (9%), patient dissatisfaction (7.1%), and incomplete Nil Per Os (NPO) time (7.7%). Additionally, the study analyzed the distribution of cancellations by age and sex, revealing that a higher percentage of males experienced surgery cancellations across all age groups. The findings underscore the complex nature of surgery cancellations, which involve both patient-related and process-related factors. To reduce cancellations, it is recommended that healthcare providers conduct thorough pre-surgical assessments, ensure optimal scheduling, and improve patient communication regarding the risks and consequences of cancellations. Furthermore, better patient preparation, efficient resource management, and minimizing technical failures can significantly decrease cancellation rates. Ultimately, a multi-faceted approach involving comprehensive planning, patient education, and operational coordination can reduce the adverse effects of surgery cancellations, enhancing healthcare delivery efficiency.