Hidden Facts of Peri-Operative Deaths in ASA-Class I and ASA- Class II Patients - A Cross-Sectional Study

This study was aimed to determine the various factors contributing to peri-operative deaths in ASA-Class I and ASA-Class II patients. Using confidential structured questionnaire, data was collected from 100 anaesthesiologists practicing in Tamilnadu. Among the 48 deaths, 32 patients (66.7%) were adults, 16 patients (33.3%) were OBG cases, followed by general surgery cases 15 patients (31.3%), 30 cases (62.5%) had underwent surgery under General Anaesthesia, 32 cases (66.7%) were emergency surgeries, 25 deaths (52.08%) were encountered during post-operative period, 17 cases (35.41%) was due to patient factors and 16 cases (33.34%) was anaesthesia related. Deficiency of equipments, drugs and lack of trained technicians to manage emergency situations especially in post-operative ward was seen in 17 cases (39.5%). We conclude that, these findings can be used to improve the quality of peri-operative care, prepare strategies and protocol to prevent such deaths.