Reasons for Cancellation of Operation in A 235 Bedded Public Sector Hospital Dedicated for Gynaecology And Obstetrics in Lahore

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the reasons for cancellation of elective surgical operation of the patients
who presents for pre-Anaesthesia evaluation one day before surgery or on the day of surgery in a
235 bedded public sector hospital in Lahore..
Methods: The medical records of all the patients, from 1st June 2014 to 30th May 2015, who had
their operations cancelled one day before surgery or on the day of surgery in all gynaecology and
obstetrics units of the hospital, were audited prospectively. The number of operation cancelled
and reasons for cancellation were documented in detail.
Results: 2160 patients were scheduled for elective surgical procedures during the study period
of one year; 204 (9.4 %) of these were cancelled one day before surgery during pre-Anaesthesia
fitness or on the day of surgery. The most common cause of cancellation was inadequate patient
preparation. 59 (28.92%) patients were cancelled as they were not adequately prepared for
surgery as per anesthetist advice (incomplete NPO, Investigations or referrals required). The
second most common cause of cancellation was the un optimized medical status of the
patients53 (25.98%). 36(17.65%) cancellations were because of equipment failure/Electricity
shutdown; 17 (8.33%) cancellations due to lack of operation theater time; 16 (7.85%) were
cancelled due to patient's refusal/patient left against medical advice; 12 (5.88%) were cancelled
by the surgeon due to a change in the surgical plan and 11 (5.39%)patients were cancelled due to
non-availability of surgeon.
Conclusions: Most causes of cancellations of operations are preventable.