Determining the Minimum Dataset for Surgical Patients in Africa: A Delphi Study

World J Surg. 2023 Mar;47(3):581-592. doi: 10.1007/s00268-022-06815-3. Epub 2022 Nov 15.

Abstract

Background: It is often difficult for clinicians in African low- and middle-income countries middle-income countries to access useful aggregated data to identify areas for quality improvement. The aim of this Delphi study was to develop a standardised perioperative dataset for use in a registry.

Methods: A Delphi method was followed to achieve consensus on the data points to include in a minimum perioperative dataset. The study consisted of two electronic surveys, followed by an online discussion and a final electronic survey (four Rounds).

Results: Forty-one members of the African Perioperative Research Group participated in the process. Forty data points were deemed important and feasible to include in a minimum dataset for electronic capturing during the perioperative workflow by clinicians. A smaller dataset consisting of eight variables to define risk-adjusted perioperative mortality rate was also described.

Conclusions: The minimum perioperative dataset can be used in a collaborative effort to establish a resource accessible to African clinicians in improving quality of care.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Africa
  • Consensus
  • Delphi Technique*
  • Humans
  • Registries
  • Surveys and Questionnaires