Ambulatory Anorectal Surgery: Unplanned Healthcare Utilization - An Observational Study

Abstract

Abstract Background: In contemporary medical practice, ambulatory anorectal surgeries have become the standard for proctological procedures. The rate of unplanned healthcare utilization following these procedures in our hospital is unknown. Objectives: This study aims to assess the incidence of unplanned healthcare utilization following ambulatory anorectal surgeries. Design: A retrospective observational study. Setting: University Hospital of Antwerp. Materials (Patients) and Methods: Patients who underwent ambulatory anorectal surgeries during a period of three years, from 2017 to 2019. Sample Size: One hundred and twenty-eight patients. Main Outcome Measures: The incidence of unplanned medical healthcare utilization. Results: Among the 124 patients included in the study, 55 (44.4%) sought medical attention from the emergency department or their general practitioners within the first 30 postoperative days. The reasons for these unplanned returns varied: 16 patients (29.6%) experienced wound problems, 15 patients (27.8%) reported postoperative pain, four patients (6.7%) encountered administrative issues, seven patients (13%) sought information or reassurance, and six patients (11.1%) had other reasons. Notably, no significant risk factors associated with unplanned returns were identified. Conclusions: Nearly half of the patients who underwent ambulatory anorectal surgery sought medical care before their scheduled follow-up appointments, indicating a need for enhanced preoperative and postoperative patient counseling. In addition, earlier follow-up consultations and a review of pain medication prescriptions must be considered. Limitations: Retrospective design constraints leading to possible data exclusions. Conflict of Interest: The authors have no conflict of interest to declare.