The 'Surgical Time.

ConclusionsIn terms of global performance at The Queen Elizabeth Hospital institution, surgeons are fairly accurate at predicting OT times. Surgeons' estimates should be used in planning theatre lists to avoid unnecessary over or underutilisation of resources.What is known about the topic?It is known that variables such as theatre changeover times and anaesthesia time are some of the factors that delay the scheduled start time of an OT. Furthermore, operating time depends on the personnel within the operating rooms such as the nursing staff, anaesthesiologists, team setup and day of time. Studies outside of Australia have shown that prediction models for OT times using individual characteristics and the surgeon's estimate are effective.What does this paper add?This paper advocates for surgeons' predicted OT time to be included in the process of theatre scheduling, which currently does not take place. It also provides analysis of a wide range of surgical specialties and assesses each professions' ability to accurately predict the surgical time. This study encompasses a substantial number of procedures. Moreover, it compares endoscopic procedures separately to laparoscopic/open procedures. It contributes how different variables such as the urgency of procedure (Emergency/Elective), estimated length of procedure and patient comorbidities affect the prediction of OT time.What are the implications for practitioners?This will encourage hospital administrators to use surgeons' predi...

Source: Australian Health Review - September 28, 2020 Category: Hospital Management Authors: Goel R, Kanhere H, Trochsler M Tags: Aust Health Rev Source Type: research