Nearly one in ten NHS operations in England are cancelled within 24 hours of the scheduled procedure, according to new research, highlighting ongoing pressure on the health service and raising concerns over avoidable delays.
The study by University College London, published in the British Journal of Anaesthesia, found that 10% of planned surgeries were cancelled the day before they were due to take place. A further 9% were postponed earlier at preoperative assessment appointments.
Researchers analysed data from 91 NHS trusts across England and concluded that a significant proportion of cancellations could have been prevented with better patient preparation and earlier medical intervention.
The findings come as the National Health Service continues to manage long waiting lists, with more than six million patients currently awaiting elective treatment.
The study identified patient readiness as a major factor behind cancellations. Many procedures were delayed because patients were not medically fit for surgery or required additional tests before proceeding. In fact, over half of postponements were linked to the need for further clinical assessment or specialist review.
Clinicians estimated that nearly 40% of last-minute cancellations could have been avoided if health issues had been identified earlier. In some cases, acute medical conditions were only detected shortly before surgery, leaving no time to proceed safely.
Operational inefficiencies also played a role. Around a quarter of surgical lists were reported to run inefficiently due to scheduling problems, staffing shortages and delays in patient arrivals, all of which contributed to wasted theatre time.
Lead researcher Dr James Bedford said the findings underline the need for earlier screening and better coordination of care. Identifying health risks sooner would allow time for treatment before surgery and help ensure patients are in the best possible condition.
He added that improved screening could also help identify low-risk patients who could be offered surgery at short notice, reducing waiting times and improving overall efficiency.
Co-author Dr Adam Hunt said too many patients are reaching surgery without optimal preparation, leading to avoidable cancellations and inefficient use of NHS resources.
Dr Claire Shannon said the research highlights the importance of strengthening perioperative care, with better coordination before, during and after surgery leading to improved outcomes and greater efficiency.
The study adds to growing concerns about NHS capacity, suggesting that improving preparation and planning could play a key role in reducing cancellations and tackling waiting list backlogs.