EGS P06 Delays in Operating on General Surgery Patients Causes Increased Morbidity and Burden on the NHS

Abstract Background The number of patients waiting for an operation in the United Kingdom has never been higher, as February 2022 over six million people were treatment. There is pressure nationally on trusts to implement strategies aimed at reducing backlog elective procedures. Long lists can lead a greater demand acute surgical services require treatment their condition while they wait procedure. This study aims determine impact that long have patients, and how readmissions affect busy tertiary General Surgical unit England. Methods Snapshot data was captured single day using trust patient records system combined with list. Data collected analysed bespoke excel management tool built by costings team. allows detailed analysis readmitted whilst list, outcomes total cost. It also set be explored whole level analysis. Wait time emergency procedures length pre-op post-op stay. Results A 2902 awaiting procedure 2022, average 34 weeks. 394 (14%) these attended acutely since being listed surgery. cost implication reattendances £563,766. Analysis procedure, such laparoscopic cholecystectomy revealed 183 cholecystectomy. 20% presented acutely, which 68% directly related underlying pathology bed days lost. 261 hernia (inguinal, umbilical, incisional) repair. 33 lost days. Acute attendances increase increases; 38% 15 months attend increasing 50% 22 months. from showed inpatient stay (LOS) pre-operatively increased days, post-operative LOS proportionally. Pre-op 1–2, 2–3, 3–4, 4–5, ≥5 led 2.9, 4.2, 5.9 8.7 respectively. Conclusions highlights significant burden seek medical attention are for, leading costs half pounds. problem becomes intensified due presentations, cancelled services. results longer in-hospital operation, who then LOS. Combined findings suggest higher morbidity patients. urgent need innovative reduce lists, theatre productivity. tools like allow nuance address issues directly.