Optimisation of postoperative X-ray acquisition for orthopaedic patients

Area of Science:

• Orthopaedic Surgery
• Radiology
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• Postoperative X-rays are crucial for assessing fixation stability and detecting fractures after orthopedic procedures.
• Delays in acquiring these images can negatively impact patient rehabilitation and hospital stay duration.
• Efficient interpretation of postoperative X-rays guides critical decisions on weight-bearing status and recovery protocols.

Purpose of the Study:

• To optimize the acquisition process for postoperative X-rays in patients undergoing implant surgery.
• To enhance the efficiency of healthcare staff involved in the X-ray process.
• To reduce delays in obtaining and interpreting essential postoperative imaging.

Main Methods:

• A multidisciplinary team implemented and evaluated a new workflow for immediate postoperative X-ray acquisition.
• Data on pre-trial and in-trial delays, as well as transport man-hours, were collected and analyzed.
• Workflow processes were refined and integrated to maximize efficiency.

Main Results:

• Significant reduction in X-ray acquisition delays, from a maximum of 20 hours and 40 minutes to zero delays.
• Mean reduction in transport man-hours by 12 minutes for nurses and 16 minutes for porters.
• Successful adoption of the trial workflow into standard institutional practice.

Conclusions:

• The optimized workflow ensures timely review of postoperative X-rays, improving patient management.
• Increased workforce efficiency and streamlined rehabilitation and discharge processes were achieved.
• This approach establishes a new standard for efficient postoperative imaging in orthopaedic care.