How long is too long when waiting for bypass surgery?

What is it about?

We present three methods for establishing the point at which a delay for coronary artery bypass surgery becomes too long, from the perspectives of hospital managers, surgeons and patients.

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Why is it important?

When access to elective surgery is rationed by budgetary considerations, patients requiring coronary artery bypass grafting may have to wait after a decision to operate has been made. A long wait for planned surgical revascularization may lead to worsening of symptoms, deterioration in the patient's condition and a less favorable clinical outcome. It may also increase the probability of preoperative death and unplanned emergency admission.