CAUSATIVE FACTORS LEADING TO THE CANCELLATION OR POSTPONEMENT OF CATARACT SURGERIES IN A TERTIARY HOSPITAL: A RETROSPECTIVE ANALYSIS
Published 2025 - 29th ESCRS Winter Meeting
Reference: PP02.07 | Type: Presented Poster & Poster | DOI: 10.82333/qete-0w06
Authors: Walid Raslan* 1 , Anjali Jayaweera Bandara 1 , Chrishan Gunasekera 1
1Ophthalmology,Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital,Norwich,United Kingdom
Purpose
To investigate the incidence and causative factors of cataract surgery cancellations within a tertiary hospital in the United Kingdom.
Setting
Ophthalmic surgery day case unit at Norfolk and Norwich University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.
Methods
This retrospective study analysed cataract surgery (phacoemulsification) cancellations over a three-month period between July - September 2024. Cancellations were categorised into primary causative factors—clinical, administrative, and healthcare personnel-related—alongside documentation of anaesthesia types used.
Results
Among 532 patients scheduled for elective cataract surgery, 106 cases (20%) were cancelled, with 44 cancellations (42%) occurring on the day of surgery. Medical issues were the leading cause (34%), followed by logistical and equipment-related issues, each constituting 14.1%.
Conclusion
Medical factors, including hypertension, anticoagulation therapy, cardiac conditions, and ocular infections, were the most frequent reasons for same-day cancellations. Logistical and equipment-related issues also significantly contributed. Many cancellations were potentially preventable, highlighting the need for improved pre-operative assessments, comprehensive systemic reviews, and strengthened patient communication and counselling. Such measures are essential to enhance the efficiency and reliability of cataract surgical services.