An Analysis Of Factors Contributing To Surgical Time Delays: An Analytical Cross-Sectional Study On Patients Undergoing Surgical Procedures.

This study aims to identify and analyse the factors contributing to delays in surgical procedure time among patients undergoing elective surgeries at SRM Hospital, Kattankulathur. During each surgery, an independent observer will be present inside the operating room to record real-time information related to the surgical workflow. Data collected will include type of surgery, scheduled and actual start times, preparation times, anaesthesia-related timings, and any intraoperative delays. Delays caused by equipment issues such as unavailability, malfunction, or setup problems will also be documented. Additional information will be obtained from anaesthesia charts, surgical records, and equipment maintenance logs, when required. Each delay will be timed, categorised, and analysed to understand its impact on total surgical duration. The study follows an analytical cross-sectional design and includes patients undergoing elective procedures after informed consent. The results are expected to help improve operating room efficiency, reduce avoidable delays, and enhance patient care.