The established acute surgical unit: A reduction in nighttime appendicectomy without increased morbidity

Abstract Introduction Nighttime surgery for non-life threatening disease has been associated with poorer outcomes, but delaying surgery for acute appendicitis may also be detrimental. The aim was to assess the effect of the Acute Surgical Unit [ASU] model on nighttime surgery rates and outcomes for patients undergoing appendicectomy. Method ology: A retrospective review of medical records of patients having an appendicectomy. Primary outcomes were nighttime surgery rate, time from presentation to surgery, perforation rate, complication rate and length of stay. Results There was a large increase in workload: Pre ASU 278, Early ASU 553 and Est. ASU 923. There was a significant decrease in nighttime surgery rates: Pre ASU 46.9%, Early ASU 30.2% and Established ASU 28.3% (Pre vs. Early p