WOFAPS 2025 8th World Congress of Pediatric Surgery

Malebo Ramatebele, Tariro Mubika, Dane Ramabu, Kagiso Wadikonyana, Nametso Siamisang, Phenyo Tshabang, Tumo Malobola, Kutlo Motlhobogwa

University of Botswana, Department of Surgery, Botswana

Purpose: To investigate rate of theater cancelation and impact on pediatric surgical cases at Princes Marina Hospital

Method: The research conducted was a retrospective review of elective cases booked in Princess Marina Hospital, from 1^st June 2024 to 30^th November 2024. It was a quantitative review of data in theatre logbooks, theatre booking book and patient files and qualitative analysis using questionnaires to the caregivers.

Results: A total of one hundred and thirty-three (133) patients were booked for surgery, ninety-six (96) operations were done with thirty-seven 37 (38.5%) cancellations. The main reasons for theatre cancellation were the theatre temperature being too low (29.7%), followed by a shortage of anaesthesiologists (10.8%) and patient factors (did not show, or patient was fed) (10.8%). Other reasons for cancelation were lack of theatre time, power outage and incomplete investigations. According to the administered questionnaires, the main impact highlighted was economic impairment, affecting 72.7%. This was followed by an alteration in the child’s mood, with 65.0% reporting observing a negative mood in their child following the cancellation, bullying and peer rejection. 54.5% complained about bodily ailments, 50.0% reported school attendance disruptions; and 45.5% reported a decrease in their child’s physical activity.

Conclusion: Theatre cancellations were far above the expected rate of 5% resulting in significant impact on the child and family. A Comprehensive plan addressing issues of human resource and infrastructural limitations may reduce cancellation rates and improve patient outcomes.