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RACS ASC 2024

Streamlining Patient Assessment for Breast Reduction Surgery: A Highly Efficient Model

Poster

Presentation Description

Institution: Sunshine Coast University Hospital - QLD, Australia

Background Comprehensive assessment and counselling are crucial components of the breast reduction surgery consult. Traditionally, these have been conducted by the surgeon alongside a registrar with restricted numbers per reduction clinic. We propose a more efficient approach to a new patient reduction clinic to enhancing resource utilisation and double its capacity. Approach Our clinic operates through four ten-minute stations. 1) A nurse-led assessment, where photographs are taken, and a pre-recorded video by the surgeon provides information about the procedure. 2) History-taking conducted by a surgical registrar. 3) A detailed physical examination focusing on breast anatomy, size, and critical measurements by a surgical registrar. 4) The surgeon then meets the patient with the collected information to answer any further questions, gain procedural consent and re-examine if necessary. Results A total of 8 responses were gained (9/14, 64% participation) from an online questionnaire delivered following two pilot clinics. Patients overwhelmingly rated their overall experience of the clinic highly (5/5), were highly satisfied with its organisation and flow (5/5) and found the education video very helpful in explaining breast reduction surgery and the evaluation process (4.75/5). All patients found their privacy and confidentiality to be respected entirely. Surgeons found that this model enabled the completion of other clinical tasks between attending their stations. Conclusion Implementation of this model holds promise for improving the quality and accessibility of care for individuals with macromastia and has the potential to be utilised in various other outpatient presentations, both public and private.

Speakers

Authors

Authors

Dr Arunan Jeyakumar - , Dr Ryan Livingston -