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Cancelled operations. A current problem in oral and maxillofacial surgery
1Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Turner Dental School, University of Manchester Dental Hospital.
British Dental Journal
|October 19, 1991
Summary
Cancelled oral and maxillofacial surgeries are a significant issue, with 31% of planned operations and 20% of operating lists cancelled in a 1990 audit due to financial cut-backs, staff shortages, and missed appointments.
Area of Science:
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Healthcare Management
- Surgical Audit
Background:
- Public concern regarding cancelled operations has increased.
- The University of Manchester identified a need to investigate surgical cancellations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a prospective audit of lost operating time in oral and maxillofacial surgery.
- To determine the extent and reasons for surgical cancellations.
Main Methods:
- A 12-month prospective audit of operating time was performed.
- Data on cancelled operations and lost operating lists were collected throughout 1990.
Main Results:
- 31% of planned oral and maxillofacial surgery operations were cancelled in 1990.
- Nearly 20% of all operating lists were completely lost.
- Common cancellation reasons included financial cut-backs, nursing staff shortages, and patient non-attendance, excluding public holidays and theatre maintenance.
Conclusions:
- Surgical cancellations in oral and maxillofacial surgery represent a substantial loss of operating time.
- Resource limitations (financial, staffing) and patient factors significantly contribute to cancellations.