Determining Outcomes of the Geriatrics Surgical Liaison MDT

Intro

The geriatrics surgical liaison MDT aims to identify surgical patients with frailty who would benefit from comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA). This involves taking referrals from both the surgical team and AHPs. There are weekly MDT meetings to identify rehab goals and any other relevant aspects of CGA assessment.

Aim

To determine the outcomes of the geriatrics surgical liaison MDT.

Methods

All patients who were discussed at the MDT meeting in a 14-week period from March to June 2026 were identified. A review of case notes was carried out to determine outcomes e.g. number of times discussed at MDT, discharge location and other issues identified by CGA.

Results

A total of 61 patients were discussed at the MDT meeting, with a total of 120 discussions. 41 patients were discussed more than once. 55.7% of patients discussed were referred by the surgical team, the remaining were highlighted by AHPs for discussion. 70.5% of patients had other issues raised at MDT in addition to rehab needs, for example, social issues, other medical/psychiatric problems, medication optimisation, and complex discharge planning. Of the 41 patients discahreged from surgical wards by the end of the collection period, 26 were discharged directly home, 7 to care homes (including 4 to new long term care placements and 1 to an intermediate care bed). 8 patients were transferred to rehab facilities. Of these 41 patients, 36.6% avoided unnecessary transfer to rehab wards after MDT discussion.

Conclusion

The geriatic surgical liaison MDT flags patients for CGA assessment that otherwise may not have been considered. Othre elements of CGA (other than rehab needs) can also be managed via the MDT. It avoids unnecessary transfers, allowing patients to be discharged in a more timely manner.