Improving Surgical Efficiency: An Evidence-Based Approach to Reducing Incidence of Last-Minute Case Cancellation

Authors

  • Samuel Huber

Abstract

Unplanned cancellation of surgery in the final hours preceding case start time causes significant disruption within surgical settings.  Often, last-minute surgical cancellation results in unutilized operating room time.  In these instances, healthcare organizations continue to incur overhead costs while forfeiting potential revenue.  Additionally, last-minute cancellation of surgery is associated with a measurable decline in patient outcomes, including greater risk of hospital admission and mortality.  The incidence of unplanned surgical cancellation is a formidable issue that affects health systems of all sizes within the United States.  A literature review was conducted to identify evidence-based solutions to mitigate this health system challenge.  Three primary interventions were identified through analysis of current research: optimization of preoperative services, process improvement through Lean Six Sigma, and integration of mobile health technology.  These solutions were evaluated using a framework of best practices in public health impact.  Optimization of preoperative services, with an emphasis on nurse-led programs, emerged as the ideal strategy due to its overall effectiveness, feasibility, and sustainability.  Preoperative clinics have the potential to further reduce surgical cancellations by expanding the range of services offered.  Additional exploration of available services in the preoperative period may serve to maximize the impact of this strategy for both patients and healthcare organizations.

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Published

2026-05-14

Issue

Vol. 10 No. 1 (2026): Articles

Section

Healthcare Administration

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