PGIMER Reports 10.46% Surge in Surgeries Following Extended Operation Theatre Hours
Chandigarh: PGI sees 10.46% hike in surgeries after extending OT timing to 12 hours

Image: Hindustan Times
The Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) in Chandigarh has seen a 10.46% increase in surgeries after extending operation theatre hours to 12 hours. This initiative, implemented on May 1, 2025, has significantly reduced patient waiting times and improved surgical access.
- 01PGIMER performed 39,030 surgeries from May 2025 to April 2026, up from 35,335 the previous year.
- 02The initiative resulted in a 54% increase in surgeries in August and a 31% increase in October compared to the previous year.
- 03High-complexity specialties like orthopaedics and neurosurgery saw the most significant growth.
- 04Orthopaedics OT-22 reported an 80% increase in operative workload.
- 05Director Dr. Vivek Lal emphasized the initiative's role in enhancing patient care and operational efficiency.
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The Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) in Chandigarh has achieved a 10.46% increase in surgeries after extending its operation theatre (OT) hours from 8 am to 8 pm. This change, implemented on May 1, 2025, was driven by the need to address rising tertiary care demands and reduce prolonged surgical waiting lists. Data indicates that 39,030 surgeries were conducted between May 2025 and April 2026, a notable rise from 35,335 in the prior year. The initiative led to significant monthly growth, particularly in August with a 54% increase and October with a 31% increase in surgeries. The rise was particularly prominent in complex specialties such as orthopaedics, neurosurgery, and transplant surgery, showcasing PGIMER's enhanced capacity for advanced surgical procedures. Director Dr. Vivek Lal highlighted this initiative as a testament to PGIMER's commitment to improving patient care and operational efficiency, allowing for faster access to critical surgical interventions for thousands of patients.
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The extended OT hours have improved surgical access and reduced waiting times for patients in need of major surgeries.
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