Premium
RS09
TO SPRINT OR TO STROLL THAT IS THE QUESTION. EVOLUTION OF SURGICAL SERVICES IN A REGIONAL CENTRE. A THREE YEAR REVIEW
Author(s) -
Desai D.,
Almehdi R.
Publication year - 2007
Publication title -
anz journal of surgery
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.426
H-Index - 70
eISSN - 1445-2197
pISSN - 1445-1433
DOI - 10.1111/j.1445-2197.2007.04128_9.x
Subject(s) - medicine , general surgery , laparoscopy , cholecystectomy , bile duct , incidence (geometry) , surgery , physics , optics
Purpose Mackay Base Hospital is a regional hub for the North of Queensland’s Centre. There is a definite demographic growth in this region due to the mining industry. The study aimed to identify if this was reflected by a similar growth in the surgical services’ volume and diversity and to recognise the challenges that face this process. Methodology Between 2004 and 2006 analysis was done to prospectively collected data banks relevant to both operative and endoscopic procedures. This was compared to other productivity factors like numbers of surgical, anaesthetic and nursing staff respectively. The advent of new technology and utilisation of experience in advanced laparoscopy was also assessed. Results In spite of a general trend of lack of permanent surgeons &/or other support services, the number of all surgical procedures were either seen to increase(operative) or maintain a high plateau (scopes). There was an increase in incidence of all major cancers in the region, namely Skin, Colon and Breast respectively. There was a statistical inclination toward Laparoscopy mainly for Appendicectomy, Acute cholecystectomy, Bile duct explorations, Fundoplication and selected Colorectal procedures. Trauma surgery reflected a similar pattern of increase though the referrals to tertiary centres remained selective. Conclusion The application of advanced surgical techniques may be restricted by available resources and local experience, nevertheless perseverance (while reasonably recognising these limitations) gives a long term outcome that is quite encouraging and compatible to other established centres.