Evaluating factors associated with the cancellation and delay of elective surgical procedures: a systematic review

Abstract Background Elective surgery cancellation is considered a fundamental problem in health care services—it causes considerable disruption to patient flow, further eroding often already stretched operating capacity, and consequentially reduces both hospital performance satisfaction. This research presents systematic review (SR) of the reasons for among different hospitals countries. By highlighting these causes, we identify how reduce cancellations, thereby improving use surgical capacity resources creating more predicable flow. Methods An SR was performed on elective compliance with Preferred Reporting Items Systematic Review Meta-Analysis by assessing methodological quality Measurement Tool Assess Reviews guidelines. Results There are that vary between hospitals. demonstrates hospital-related (e.g. unavailable operation room time, inappropriate scheduling policy lack beds) primary reason cancellation, followed work-up related medically unfit changes treatment plan) patient-related absence refusal). Conclusion main can be controlled managers, who aim improve areas such as flow management. Ultimately, this will healthcare delivered