Optimal Timing for Surgery: Pre-Lunch vs. Post-Lunch

Deciding whether to schedule a surgery before or after a surgeon's lunch hour involves several important considerations. This article will explore the factors that influence this decision, including the surgeon's preference, procedure length, surgical team readiness, hospital scheduling, and the specific circumstances of the patient.

Factors Influencing Surgery Scheduling

Surgeons' Preference

Some surgeons prefer to perform surgeries earlier in the day, when they are mentally fresher and more focused. This is because the initial part of the day when the surgeon is typically well-rested and energized can impact the success of the surgery. However, other surgeons may be fine operating after lunch, especially if they have a routine that includes a break.

Procedure Length

The duration of the procedure is another critical factor. For shorter surgeries, scheduling them before lunch can be ideal. This allows the surgeon to have a fresh start and the energy to focus fully on the task at hand. Conversely, for longer surgeries, it might be better to schedule them after lunch to avoid the risk of the surgeon feeling rushed, which could potentially compromise the quality of the operation.

Surgical Team Readiness

The entire surgical team's energy levels and focus can significantly impact the outcome. Having a well-rested and fully prepared team is generally preferred. Surgeons and the entire surgical team should be at optimal performance levels to ensure the best possible results for the patient.

Hospital Scheduling

Sometimes, the availability of operating rooms and staff can dictate the surgery schedule, regardless of lunch hours. Hospitals often have rigorous planning to ensure that all necessary resources are available at the scheduled time. This can help in maintaining a high level of patient care and safety.

Patient Considerations

The health and readiness of the patient should always be the primary concern when scheduling a surgery. It is crucial to ensure that the patient is mentally and physically prepared for the procedure. The patient should also be given clear instructions regarding fasting before the surgery, which can vary depending on the specific procedure and the hospital's protocols.

Practical Examples

Years ago, surgeries were scheduled based on the need for sterility and the risk of infection. Today, the process is more streamlined, but emergency surgeries can still take precedence over planned ones. The timing of surgeries is often flexible, depending on urgent circumstances such as emergency cases.

From my personal experience in the surgical room, surgeries can last hours, and the surgeons often take short breaks when possible. Patients are usually required to fast either from midnight or from 05:00, depending on their place on the list. It is generally fair to have patients fast for about six hours before surgery, as longer fasting periods can be detrimental to their health.

I aim to complete my lists by lunchtime, and I rarely need to carry on into the afternoons. However, some surgeries may be postponed until after 14:00, in which case, I request that the nurses provide the patient with some tea and toast. After performing surgeries, I usually check on my patients in the recovery room before leaving them to recover. On my surgery days, I typically go home around 18:00, but I conduct a full round to ensure everyone is recovering well before handing over to junior staff. I remain on call for the rest of the night, just in case.

Conclusion

In general, it is best to discuss the scheduling with the surgeon and the medical team to determine the optimal time for the specific situation. Clear communication and collaboration between all parties involved can lead to the best results for the patient.