Comprehensive gynecologic endoscopic hospital privileging program: Implementation and assessment

OBJECTIVE: To describe a comprehensive gynecologic endoscopic privileging program at an urban teaching hospital and evaluate its effect on complication rates. STUDY DESIGN: In 1996, a gynecologic endoscopy privileging program was instituted. Initially, experienced surgeons were invited to apply for advanced privileges based on submission of a case list. Afterwards, new applications were approved by proctorship. Since 1995, charts have been reviewed using the following indicators; operating time, estimated blood loss, length of stay, readmission, diagnosis of cancer, reexploration and admission for hysteroscopic fluid overload. Cases were also independently identified when a major vascular or visceral injury occurred. RESULTS: Among the 3,880 gynecologic endoscopic procedures performed during the review period, 2,702 medical records were randomly screened. Following institution of the program, there was no change noted in rates of hysteroscopic fluid overload, readmission, reexploration or unrecognized diagnosis of cancer. However, a decrease was noted in excess blood loss (odds ratio [OR] 0.6, 90% confidence interval [CI] 0.4, 0.9) and operating time greater than four hours (OR 0.6, CI 0.4, 0.9). Length of hospital stay was also reduced in the year following implementation of the privileging process (OR 0.2, CI 0.1, 0.3). Fifty-four cases of visceral or major vascular injury occurred during the three-year period. The risk of visceral injury revealed a trend from 1.9% to 1.0% after institution of the privileging process (OR 0.5, CI 0.3, 1.0). CONCLUSION: Establishment of a comprehensive gynecologic endoscopic hospital privileging program was associated with a reduction in rates of excess blood loss and operating times and a decreasing trend in visceral injuries.