What day of the week is best to have elective surgery? Analysis of 4.1 million inpatient elective surgical procedures in Britain found the 30-day mortality was 6.7 per 1000 procedures. When compared with Monday procedures, the adjusted odds ratio for death was 7% higher for Tuesday surgeries. The rates for surgeries done on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and weekends were 15%, 21%, 44%, and 82%, respectively. Remember, complications are most likely to occur in the first 48 hours, and personnel and services are more limited on the weekends.
PositiveTip: If it is elective surgery, schedule early in the week when possible.