A new study suggests that when you schedule your surgery may have a significant impact on your recovery. Researchers found that surgeries performed late in the week, particularly on Fridays, are linked to a higher risk of complications, including death, hospital readmission, and long-term health issues.
Published in JAMA Network Open on March 4, the study revealed that patients who had surgeries close to the weekend had worse outcomes compared to those who had their procedures earlier in the week. The researchers focused on data from nearly 430,000 patients over 13 years, noting a 5% increase in adverse effects for surgeries performed on Fridays versus Mondays.
This phenomenon, known as the “weekend effect,” has been observed in shorter-term studies, but this new research aimed to see if it extended over a longer period. Vatsala Mundra, a urology clinical research fellow at Houston Methodist Hospital, emphasized the importance of understanding how hospital staffing and resources might affect patient care, especially toward the end of the week.
What is the “Weekend Effect”?
The study compared surgeries performed on Mondays and Fridays among patients who underwent 25 common procedures in Ontario, Canada, between 2007 and 2019. Surgeries on Mondays were associated with fewer complications and better long-term outcomes.
While the findings suggest a clear difference in health outcomes, experts caution that the study’s observational nature means the day of the week itself cannot be blamed for poor outcomes. Factors such as time of day, surgeon experience, and hospital resources may also play a role, explained Dr. Salva Balbale, an assistant professor at Northwestern University.
The Weekend Effect and Hospital Staffing
Experts believe that the weekend effect may be tied to issues with hospital staffing. On Fridays and weekends, there are fewer medical professionals available, which can lead to reduced access to specialists or tests. Additionally, younger and less experienced surgeons are often assigned weekend shifts, increasing the potential for complications.
While this research underscores the need for better hospital staffing during the weekends, patients should not panic about scheduling surgery later in the week. Mundra advises patients to consult their medical teams and advocate for proper care, particularly if undergoing surgery near the weekend.
Should You Avoid Surgery on Fridays?
Despite the potential risks, Mundra stressed that scheduling surgery on a Friday doesn’t mean you should automatically reschedule. If your surgeon is experienced and you are confident in your care, the timing may not be an issue. However, if you have concerns, discussing your options with your healthcare provider is always a good idea.
Experts agree that ensuring proper hospital staffing and access to experienced medical professionals is key to improving surgical outcomes, regardless of the day of the week.
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