Emergency general surgery models in Australia: a cross-sectional study

Objective. Emergency general surgery (EGS) patients experience superior outcomes when cared for within an acute surgical unit (ASU) model. EGS structures in most Australian hospitals remain unknown. This study aimed to describe the national spectrum of EGS models. Methods. A cross-sectional study was performed of all Australian public hospitals of medium or greater peer group (>2000 patient separations per annum). The primary outcome was the incidence of each EGS model. Secondary outcomes were the relationship of the EGS model to objective hospital variables, and qualitative reasons for the choice of model. Results. Of the 120 eligible hospitals, 119 (99%) participated. Sixty-four hospitals reported using an ASU (28%) or hybrid EGS model (26%), whereas the remaining 55 (46%) used a traditional model. ASU implementation was significantly more common among hospitals of greater peer group, bed number, surgeon pool and trauma service sophistication. Leading drivers for ASU commencement were aims to improve patient care and decrease after-hours operating, whereas common barriers against uptake were insufficient EGS patient load or surgeon on-call pool. Conclusions ASU or hybrid models of care may be more widespread than currently reported. The introduction of such structures is heavily dependent on hospital and staff size, trauma subspecialisation and EGS patient throughput. What is known about the topic? Traditionally, general surgical staff were rostered to elective operating and clinic duties, with emergency patients managed on an ad hoc basis. An ASU model, with a surgeon dedicated to EGS patients, has been associated with superior outcomes. However, the Australian uptake of this model is unknown. What does this paper add? This study enrolled 119 of 120 (99%) Australian public hospitals of medium or greater peer group (>2000 patient separations per annum). Uptake of the ASU or hybrid model was more widespread than expected, existing in 64 of 119 (54%) centres. Factors for and against ASU implementation were also assessed. What are the implications for practitioners? Hospitals considering implementing an ASU or hybrid model will be reassured by the common reports of improved patient outcomes and decreased after-hours operating. However, potential hospitals must assess the suitability of the ASU model to their surgeon pool and EGS patient load.