Less invasive surgical techniques reduce demand for post-operative stays on acute medical wards
There are further developments in surgical technology resulting in an increase of minimally invasive surgery. This uses tiny instruments with a few short incisions to operate inside the body. Endoscopic, laparoscopic and robotic surgery are all minimally invasive techniques that surgeons use for many conditions and injuries. Less invasive surgery reduces the length of stay in hospital. Patients report significantly less pain, less blood loss and less scarring, which enables them to return to normal daily activities faster. This reduces demand for post-operative stays on acute medical wards.
Proposed workforce impact
- Less invasive surgery such as laparoscopic surgery reduces demand on the workforce in acute hospital services.
- The average length of stay in hospital is shorter, providing more efficient turnover of patients.
- There is a reduction in post-operative pain and readmissions.
Sources or references
- londonhp.nhs.uk/publications/quality-and-safety-publications/cases-for-change-and-quality-standards-publications/adult-emergency-services-acute-medicine-and-emergency-general-services
- www.improvement.nhs.uk/documents/er_better_journey.pdf
- www.hsj.co.uk/resource.../in...reducing-length-of-stay/3181.article
- www.asgbi.org.uk/download.cfm?docid=837F177C-46ED-4469
Additional research questions
- Will the availability of invasive surgery increase the expectation to receive this treatment, thus increasing the number of people entering hospitals for surgery?
Some of the information in this section is provided by stakeholders and expert groups, and does not necessarily represent the views of the CfWI.
