Comparison of Rates and Outcomes of Readmission to Index vs Nonindex Hospitals After Major Cancer Surgery

Factors influencing readmission patterns following radical cystectomy: An analysis of social determinants and discharge outcomes

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES

Radical cystectomy readmission rates remain high, with around 25% of patients readmitted to index and nonindex hospitals in 30 days. Nonindex readmissions have been associated with poorer outcomes, including longer lengths of stay and higher mortality rates. This study aimed to examine the associations of social factors (e.g., sex, race, socioeconomic status, insurance type, and resident location) on readmission to index versus nonindex hospitals and discharge disposition.

METHODS

We conducted a population-based retrospective study using the Pennsylvania Cancer Registry (PCR) to identify patients diagnosed with nonmetastatic muscle-invasive bladder cancer who underwent radical cystectomy in Pennsylvania between 2010 and 2018. Readmitted patients were identified using the Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council data (PHC4). The primary outcome was readmission location (i.e., index or nonindex hospital) following radical cystectomy. We used chi-square tests for categorical variables, Wilcoxon rank sum test for continuous variables, multivariable logistic regression model to assess predictors of being readmitted to an index hospital and calculating the predicted probability of being admitted to an index hospital depending on discharge disposition.

RESULTS

A total of 517 patients were readmitted within 30-days after radical cystectomy. The majority of readmissions were index readmissions (83%). Median readmission hospital stay was 4 days (interquartile range [IQR] 4) for index and 5 days (IQR 7) for nonindex hospitals, P = 0.01. Patients readmitted to index hospitals had fewer comorbidities (median weighted Elixhauser Comorbidity Index 2 (IQR 2)) and lived in urban areas (89%). Discharge with home care was associated with a higher odds of index readmission (odds ratio, [OR] 2.40; 95% confidence interval, [CI] 1.25-4.52).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients residing in urban areas and with fewer comorbidities were more likely to be readmitted to index hospitals than nonindex hospitals. Socioeconomic status and insurance type did not correlate with the type of readmission. Finally, being discharged with home health care was found to be a predictor of readmission to an index hospital.

Procedural volume is linearly associated with mortality, major complications, and readmissions in patients undergoing malignant brain tumor resection

PURPOSE

Improved outcomes have been noted in patients undergoing malignant brain tumor resection at high-volume centers. Studies have arbitrarily chosen high-volume dichotomous cutoffs and have not evaluated volume-outcome associations at specific institutional procedural volumes. We sought to establish the continuous association of volume with patient outcomes and identify cutoffs significantly associated with mortality, major complications, and readmissions. We hypothesized that a linear volume-outcome relationship can estimate likelihood of adverse outcomes when comparing any two volumes.

METHODS

The patient cohort was identified with ICD-10 coding in the Nationwide Readmissions Database(NRD). The association of volume and mortality, major complications, and 30-/90-day readmissions were evaluated in multivariate analyses. Volume was used as a continuous variable with two/three-piece splines, with various knot positions to reflect the best model performance, based on the Quasi Information Criterion(QIC).

RESULTS

From 2016 to 2018, 34,486 patients with malignant brain tumors underwent resection. When volume was analyzed as a continuous variable, mortality risk decreased at a steady rate of OR 0.988 per each additional procedure increase for hospitals with 1-65 cases/year(95% CI 0.982-0.993, p < 0.0001). Risk of major complications decreased from 1 to 41 cases/year(OR 0.983, 95% CI 0.979-0.988, p < 0.0001), 30-day readmissions from 1 to 24 cases/year(OR 0.987, 95% CI 0.979-0.995, p = 0.001) and 90-day readmissions from 1 to 23 cases/year(OR 0.989, 95% CI 0.983-0.995, p = 0.0003) and 24-349 cases/year(OR 0.9994, 95% CI 0.999-1, p = 0.01).

CONCLUSION

In multivariate analyses, institutional procedural volume remains linearly associated with mortality, major complications, and 30-/90-day readmission up to specific cutoffs. The resulting linear association can be used to calculate relative likelihood of adverse outcomes between any two volumes.

Incidence and Predictors of Readmissions to Non-Index Hospitals After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation in the Contemporary Era in New South Wales, Australia

BACKGROUND

In Australia, transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is only performed in a limited number of specialised metropolitan centres, many of which are private hospitals, making it likely that TAVI patients who require readmission will present to another (non-index) hospital. It is important to understand the impact of non-index readmission on patient outcomes and healthcare resource utilisation.

METHOD

We analysed linked hospital and death records for residents of New South Wales, Australia, aged ≥18 years, who had an emergency readmission within 90 days following a TAVI procedure in 2013-2022. Mixed-effect, multi-level logistic regression models were used to evaluate predictors of non-index readmission, and associations between non-index readmission and readmission length of stay, 90-day mortality, and 1-year mortality.

RESULTS

Of 4,198 patients (mean age, 82.7 years; 40.6% female) discharged alive following TAVI, 933 (22.2%) were readmitted within 90 days of discharge. Over three-quarters (76.0%) of those readmitted returned to a non-index hospital, with no significant difference in readmission principal diagnosis between index hospital and non-index hospital readmissions. Among readmitted patients, independent predictors of non-index readmission included: residence in regional or remote areas, lower socio-economic status, having a pre-procedure transfer, and a private index hospital. Readmission length of stay (median, 4 days), 90-day mortality (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 1.04, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.56-1.96) and 1-year mortality (adjusted OR 1.01, 95% CI 0.64-1.58) were similar between index and non-index readmissions.

CONCLUSIONS

Non-index readmission following TAVI was highly prevalent but not associated with increased mortality or healthcare utilisation. Our results are reassuring for TAVI patients in regional and remote areas with limited access to return to index TAVI hospitals.

Explainable Machine Learning Model to Preoperatively Predict Postoperative Complications in Inpatients With Cancer Undergoing Major Operations

PURPOSE

Preoperative prediction of postoperative complications (PCs) in inpatients with cancer is challenging. We developed an explainable machine learning (ML) model to predict PCs in a heterogenous population of inpatients with cancer undergoing same-hospitalization major operations.

METHODS

Consecutive inpatients who underwent same-hospitalization operations from December 2017 to June 2021 at a single institution were retrospectively reviewed. The ML model was developed and tested using electronic health record (EHR) data to predict 30-day PCs for patients with Clavien-Dindo grade 3 or higher (CD 3+) per the CD classification system. Model performance was assessed using area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC), area under the precision recall curve (AUPRC), and calibration plots. Model explanation was performed using the Shapley additive explanations (SHAP) method at cohort and individual operation levels.

RESULTS

A total of 988 operations in 827 inpatients were included. The ML model was trained using 788 operations and tested using a holdout set of 200 operations. The CD 3+ complication rates were 28.6% and 27.5% in the training and holdout test sets, respectively. Training and holdout test sets' model performance in predicting CD 3+ complications yielded an AUROC of 0.77 and 0.73 and an AUPRC of 0.56 and 0.52, respectively. Calibration plots demonstrated good reliability. The SHAP method identified features and the contributions of the features to the risk of PCs.

CONCLUSION

We trained and tested an explainable ML model to predict the risk of developing PCs in patients with cancer. Using patient-specific EHR data, the ML model accurately discriminated the risk of developing CD 3+ complications and displayed top features at the individual operation and cohort level.

Predictors and Significance of Readmission after Esophagogastric Surgery: A Nationwide Analysis

Objective

The aim of this study is to identify risk factors for readmission after elective esophagogastric cancer surgery and characterize the impact of readmission on long-term survival. The study will also identify whether the location of readmission to either the hospital that performed the primary surgery (index hospital) or another institution (nonindex hospital) has an impact on postoperative mortality.

Background

Over the past decade, the center-volume relationship has driven the centralization of major cancer surgery, which has led to improvements in perioperative mortality. However, the impact of readmission, especially to nonindex centers, on long-term mortality remains unclear.

Methods

This was a national population-based cohort study using Hospital Episode Statistics of adult patients undergoing esophagectomy and gastrectomy in England between January 2008 and December 2019.

Results

This study included 27,592 patients, of which overall readmission rates were 25.1% (index 15.3% and nonindex 9.8%). The primary cause of readmission to an index hospital was surgical in 45.2% and 23.7% in nonindex readmissions. Patients with no readmissions had significantly longer survival than those with readmissions (median: 4.5 vs 3.8 years; P < 0.001). Patients readmitted to their index hospital had significantly improved survival as compared to nonindex readmissions (median: 3.3 vs 4.7 years; P < 0.001). Minimally invasive surgery and surgery performed in high-volume centers had improved 90-day mortality (odds ratio, 0.75; P < 0.001; odds ratio, 0.60; P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Patients requiring readmission to the hospital after surgery have an increased risk of mortality, which is worsened by readmission to a nonindex institution. Patients requiring readmission to the hospital should be assessed and admitted, if required, to their index institution.

National Estimates of Short- and Longer-Term Hospital Readmissions After Major Surgery Among Community-Living Older Adults

Importance

Nationally representative estimates of hospital readmissions within 30 and 180 days after major surgery, including both fee-for-service and Medicare Advantage beneficiaries, are lacking.

Objectives

To provide population-based estimates of hospital readmission within 30 and 180 days after major surgery in community-living older US residents and examine whether these estimates differ according to key demographic, surgical, and geriatric characteristics.

Design, Setting, and Participants

A prospective longitudinal cohort study of National Health and Aging Trends Study data (calendar years 2011-2018), linked to records from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). Data analysis was conducted from April to August 2023. Participants included community-living US residents of the contiguous US aged 65 years or older who had at least 1 major surgery from 2011 to 2018. Data analysis was conducted from April 10 to August 28, 2023.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Major operations and hospital readmissions within 30 and 180 days were identified through data linkages with CMS files that included both fee-for-service and Medicare Advantage beneficiaries. Data on frailty and dementia were obtained from the annual National Health and Aging Trends Study assessments.

Results

A total of 1780 major operations (representing 9 556 171 survey-weighted operations nationally) were identified from 1477 community-living participants; mean (SD) age was 79.5 (7.0) years, with 56% being female. The weighted rates of hospital readmission were 11.6% (95% CI, 9.8%-13.6%) for 30 days and 27.6% (95% CI, 24.7%-30.7%) for 180 days. The highest readmission rates within 180 days were observed among participants aged 90 years or older (36.8%; 95% CI, 28.3%-46.3%), those undergoing vascular surgery (45.8%; 95% CI, 37.7%-54.1%), and persons with frailty (36.9%; 95% CI, 30.8%-43.5%) or probable dementia (39.0%; 95% CI, 30.7%-48.1%). In age- and sex-adjusted models with death as a competing risk, the hazard ratios for hospital readmission within 180 days were 2.29 (95% CI, 1.70-3.09) for frailty and 1.58 (95% CI, 1.15-2.18) for probable dementia.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this nationally representative cohort study of community-living older US residents, the likelihood of hospital readmissions within 180 days after major surgery was increased among older persons who were frail or had probable dementia, highlighting the potential value of these geriatric conditions in identifying those at increased risk.

Readmission to a non-index hospital following total joint replacement

Aims

It is unclear whether mortality outcomes differ for patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA) or total knee arthroplasty (TKA) surgery who are readmitted to the index hospital where their surgery was performed, or to another hospital.

Methods

We analyzed linked hospital and death records for residents of New South Wales, Australia, aged ≥ 18 years who had an emergency readmission within 90 days following THA or TKA surgery between 2003 and 2022. Multivariable modelling was used to identify factors associated with non-index readmission and to evaluate associations of readmission destination (non-index vs index) with 90-day and one-year mortality.

Results

Of 394,248 joint arthroplasty patients (THA = 149,456; TKA = 244,792), 9.5% (n = 37,431) were readmitted within 90 days, and 53.7% of these were admitted to a non-index hospital. Non-index readmission was more prevalent among patients who underwent surgery in private hospitals (60%). Patients who were readmitted for non-orthopaedic conditions (62.8%), were more likely to return to a non-index hospital compared to those readmitted for orthopaedic complications (39.5%). Factors associated with non-index readmission included older age, higher socioeconomic status, private health insurance, and residence in a rural or remote area. Non-index readmission was significantly associated with 90-day (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 1.69; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.39 to 2.05) and one-year mortality (aOR 1.31; 95% CI 1.16 to 1.47). Associations between non-index readmission and mortality were similar for patients readmitted with orthopaedic and non-orthopaedic complications (90-day mortality aOR 1.61; 95% CI 0.98 to 2.64, and aOR 1.67; 95% CI 1.35 to 2.06, respectively).

Conclusion

Non-index readmission was associated with increased mortality, irrespective of whether the readmission was for orthopaedic complications or other conditions.

National frequency, trends, and healthcare burden of care fragmentation in readmissions for end-stage liver disease in the USA

BACKGROUND

End-stage liver disease (ESLD) patients have frequent readmissions to the same facility or a different hospital (care fragmentation). Care fragmentation results in care delivery from an unfamiliar clinical team or setting, a potential source of suboptimal clinical outcomes. We examined the occurrence, trends, and association between care fragmentation and outcomes during readmissions for ESLD.

METHODS

From the Nationwide Readmissions Database (January to September 2010-2014), we followed adult (age ≥18 years) hospitalizations for ESLD who were discharged alive for 90 days. During 30- and 90-day readmissions, we calculated the frequency, determinants, and clinical outcomes of care fragmentation (SAS 9.4).

RESULTS

Of the 67,480 ESLD hospitalizations surviving at discharge from 2010-2014, 35% (23,872) and 52% (35,549) were readmitted in 30- and 90-days respectively. During readmissions, the frequencies of care fragmentation were similar (30-day: 25.4% and 90-day: 25.8%) and remained stable from 2010 to 2014 (P trends>0.5). Similarly, factors associated with care fragmentation were consistent across 30- and 90-day readmissions. These included ages: 18-44 years, liver cancer, receipt of liver transplantation, hepatorenal syndrome, prolonged length of stay, and hospitalization in non-teaching facilities. During 30- and 90-day readmissions, care fragmentation was associated with higher risk of mortality (adjusted mean ratio: 1.13[1.03-1.24] and 1.14 [1.06-1.23]; P values<0.0001), prolonged length of stay (4.6-days vs. 4.1-days and 5.2-days vs. 4.6-days; P values<0.0001), and higher hospital charges ($36,884 vs. $28,932 and $37,354 vs. $30,851; P values<0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Care fragmentation is high among readmissions for ESLD and is associated with poorer outcomes.

Understanding Variation in In-hospital Mortality After Major Surgery in the United States

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to quantify the contributions of patient characteristics (PC), hospital structural characteristics (HC), and hospital operative volumes (HOV) to in-hospital mortality (IHM) after major surgery in the United States (US).

BACKGROUND

The volume-outcome relationship correlates higher HOV with decreased IHM. However, IHM after major surgery is multifactorial, and the relative contribution of PC, HC, and HOV to IHM after major surgery is unknown.

STUDY DESIGN

Patients undergoing major pancreatic, esophageal, lung, bladder, and rectal operations between 2006 and 2011 were identified from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample linked to the American Hospital Association survey. Multilevel logistic regression models were constructed using PC, HC, and HOV to calculate attributable variability in IHM for each.

RESULTS

Eighty thousand nine hundred sixty-nine patients across 1025 hospitals were included. Postoperative IHM ranged from 0.9% for rectal to 3.9% for esophageal surgery. Patient characteristics contributed most of the variability in IHM for esophageal (63%), pancreatic (62.9%), rectal (41.2%), and lung (44.4%) operations. HOV explained < 25% of variability for pancreatic, esophageal, lung, and rectal surgery. HC accounted for 16.9% and 17.4% of the variability in IHM for esophageal and rectal surgery. Unexplained variability in IHM was high in the lung (44.3%), bladder (39.3%), and rectal (33.7%) surgery subgroups.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite recent policy focus on the volume-outcome relationship, HOV was not the most important contributor to IHM for the major organ surgeries studied. PC remains the largest identifiable contributor to hospital mortality. Quality improvement initiatives should emphasize patient optimization and structural improvements, in addition to investigating the yet unexplained sources contributing to IHM.

Longer patient travel distance is associated with increased non-index readmission after complex aortic surgery

OBJECTIVE

Recently evolving practice patterns in complex aortic surgery have led to regionalization of care within fewer centers in the United States, and thus patients may have to travel farther for complex aortic care. Travel distance has been associated with inferior outcomes after non-vascular surgery, particularly non-index readmission. This study aims to assess the impact of patient travel distance on perioperative outcomes and readmissions after complex aortic surgery.

METHODS

A retrospective review was conducted of all patients in the Vascular Quality Initiative and Vascular Implant Surveillance and Interventional Outcomes Network databases undergoing complex endovascular aortic repair (EVAR) including internal iliac or visceral vessel involvement, complex thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) including zone 0 to 2 proximal extent or branched devices, and complex open abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) repair including suprarenal or higher clamp sites. Travel distance was stratified by rural/urban commuting area (RUCA) population-density category. Wilcoxon and χ2 tests were used to assess relationships between travel distance quintiles and baseline characteristics, mortality, and readmission. Travel distance and other factors were included in multivariable Cox models for survival and Fine-Gray competing risk models for freedom from readmission.

RESULTS

Between 2011 and 2018, 8782 patients underwent complex aortic surgery in the Vascular Quality Initiative and Vascular Implant Surveillance and Interventional Outcomes Network databases, including 4822 complex EVARs, 2672 complex TEVARs, and 1288 complex open AAA repairs. Median travel distance was 22.8 miles (interquartile range [IQR], 8.6-54.8 miles). Median age was 75 years for all distance quintiles, but patients traveling longer distances were more likely female (26.8% in quintile 5 [Q5] vs 19.9% in Q1; P < .001), white (93.8% of Q5 vs 83.8% of Q1; P < .001), to have larger-diameter AAAs (median 59 mm for Q5 vs 55 mm for Q1; P < .001), and to have had prior aortic surgery (20.8% for Q5 vs 5.9% for Q1; P < .001). Overall 30-day readmission was more common at farther distances (18.1% for Q5 vs 14.8% for Q1; P = .003), with higher non-index readmission (11.2% for Q5 vs 2.7% for Q1; P < .001) and conversely lower index readmission (6.9% for Q5 vs 12.0% for Q1; P < .001). Multivariable-adjusted Fine-Gray models confirmed greater hazard of non-index readmission with farther distance, with a Q5 hazard ratio of 3.02 (95% confidence interval, 2.12-4.30; P < .001). Multivariable-adjusted Cox models demonstrated no association between travel distance and long-term survival but found that non-index readmission was associated with increased long-term mortality (hazard ratio, 1.46; 95% confidence interval, 1.20-1.78; P = .0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients traveling farther for complex aortic surgery demonstrate higher non-index readmission, which, in turn, is associated with increased long-term mortality risk. Aortic centers of excellence should consider targeting these patients for more comprehensive follow-up and care coordination to improve outcomes.

Care Fragmentation Following Hospitalization for Atrial Fibrillation in the United States

Background

Despite the high prevalence of atrial fibrillation (AF), the incidence and impact of care fragmentation (CF) following hospitalization for this condition remain unstudied.

Objectives

The present study used a national database to determine the incidence of and risk factors associated with CF. Outcomes following CF were also examined.

Methods

All adults who were discharged alive following hospitalization for AF (index facility) were identified within the 2016 to 2019 Nationwide Readmissions Database. Patients requiring nonelective rehospitalization within 30 days of discharge were categorized into 2 groups. The CF cohort included those readmitted to a nonindex facility, while others were classified as noncare fragmentation. Multivariable regression was used to evaluate factors associated with CF, as well as its impact on in-hospital mortality, length of stay, and costs at rehospitalization.

Results

Of an estimated 686,942 patients who met study criteria and survived to discharge, 13.6% (n = 93,376) experienced unplanned readmission within 30 days. Among those readmitted, 21.3% (n = 19,906) were readmitted to a nonindex facility. Patients who experienced CF were younger, more commonly male and less frequently readmitted for AF. Upon multivariable adjustment, male sex, Medicaid insurance (ref: private), and transfer status were associated with increased odds of CF. Upon readmission, CF was associated with a 18% increment in relative odds of in-hospital mortality, a 0.3-day increment in length of stay, and an additional $1,500 in hospitalization costs.

Conclusions

CF was associated with significant clinical and financial burden. Further studies are needed to address factors which contribute to increased mortality and resource use following CF.

Impact of Mediating and Confounding Variables on the Volume-Outcome Association in the Treatment of Pancreatic Cancer

BACKGROUND

High-volume centers (HVC), academic centers (AC), and longer travel distances (TD) have been associated with improved outcomes for patients undergoing surgery for pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAC). Effects of mediating variables on these associations remain undefined. The purpose of this study is to examine the direct effects of hospital volume, facility type, and travel distance on overall survival (OS) in patients undergoing surgery for PAC and characterize the indirect effects of patient-, disease-, and treatment-related mediating variables.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Using the National Cancer Database, patients with non-metastatic PAC who underwent resection were stratified by annual hospital volume (< 11, 11-19, and ≥ 20 cases/year), facility type (AC versus non-AC), and TD (≥ 40 versus < 40 miles). Associations with survival were evaluated using multiple regression models. Effects of mediating variables were assessed using mediation analysis.

RESULTS

In total, 19,636 patients were included. Treatment at HVC or AC was associated with lower risk of death [hazard ratio (HR) 0.90, confidence interval (CI) 0.88-0.92; HR 0.89, CI 0.86-0.91, respectively]. TD did not impact OS. Patient-, disease-, and treatment-related variables explained 25.5% and 41.8% of the survival benefit attained from treatment at HVC and AC, reducing the survival benefit directly attributable to each variable to 4.9% and 6.4%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment of PAC at HVC and AC was associated with improved OS, but the magnitude of this benefit was less when mediating variables were considered. From a healthcare utilization and cost-resource perspective, further research is needed to identify patients who would benefit most from selective referral to HVC or AC.

How Far Is Too Far? Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of Regionalized Rectal Cancer Surgery

BACKGROUND

Regionalized rectal cancer surgery may decrease postoperative and long-term cancer-related mortality. However, the regionalization of care may be an undue burden on patients.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to assess the cost-effectiveness of regionalized rectal cancer surgery.

DESIGN

Tree-based decision analysis.

PATIENTS

Patients with stage II/III rectal cancer anatomically suitable for low anterior resection were included.

SETTING

Rectal cancer surgery performed at a high-volume regional center rather than the closest hospital available.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Incremental costs ($) and effectiveness (quality-adjusted life year) reflected a societal perspective and were time-discounted at 3%. Costs and benefits were combined to produce the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio ($ per quality-adjusted life year). Multivariable probabilistic sensitivity analysis modeled uncertainty in probabilities, costs, and effectiveness.

RESULTS

Regionalized surgery economically dominated local surgery. Regionalized rectal cancer surgery was both less expensive on average ($50,406 versus $65,430 in present-day costs) and produced better long-term outcomes (10.36 versus 9.51 quality-adjusted life years). The total costs and inconvenience of traveling to a regional high-volume center would need to exceed $15,024 per patient to achieve economic breakeven alone or $112,476 per patient to satisfy conventional cost-effectiveness standards. These results were robust on sensitivity analysis and maintained in 94.6% of scenario testing.

LIMITATIONS

Decision analysis models are limited to policy level rather than individualized decision-making.

CONCLUSIONS

Regionalized rectal cancer surgery improves clinical outcomes and reduces total societal costs compared to local surgical care. Prescriptive measures and patient inducements may be needed to expand the role of regionalized surgery for rectal cancer. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/C83 .

QU TAN LEJOS ES DEMASIADO LEJOS ANLISIS DE COSTOEFECTIVIDAD DE LA CIRUGA DE CNCER DE RECTO REGIONALIZADO

ANTECEDENTES:La cirugía de cáncer de recto regionalizado puede disminuir la mortalidad posoperatoria y a largo plazo relacionada con el cáncer. Sin embargo, la regionalización de la atención puede ser una carga indebida para los pacientes.OBJETIVO:Evaluar la rentabilidad de la cirugía oncológica de recto regionalizada.DISEÑO:Análisis de decisiones basado en árboles.PACIENTES:Pacientes con cáncer de recto en estadio II/III anatómicamente aptos para resección anterior baja.AJUSTE:Cirugía de cáncer rectal realizada en un centro regional de alto volumen en lugar del hospital más cercano disponible.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE RESULTADO:Los costos incrementales ($) y la efectividad (años de vida ajustados por calidad) reflejaron una perspectiva social y se descontaron en el tiempo al 3%. Los costos y los beneficios se combinaron para producir la relación costo-efectividad incremental ($ por año de vida ajustado por calidad). El análisis de sensibilidad probabilístico multivariable modeló la incertidumbre en las probabilidades, los costos y la efectividad.RESULTADOS:La cirugía regionalizada predominó económicamente la cirugía local. La cirugía de cáncer de recto regionalizado fue menos costosa en promedio ($50 406 versus $65 430 en costos actuales) y produjo mejores resultados a largo plazo (10,36 versus 9,51 años de vida ajustados por calidad). Los costos totales y la inconveniencia de viajar a un centro regional de alto volumen necesitarían superar los $15,024 por paciente para alcanzar el punto de equilibrio económico o $112,476 por paciente para satisfacer los estándares convencionales de rentabilidad. Estos resultados fueron sólidos en el análisis de sensibilidad y se mantuvieron en el 94,6% de las pruebas de escenarios.LIMITACIONES:Los modelos de análisis de decisiones se limitan al nivel de políticas en lugar de la toma de decisiones individualizada.CONCLUSIONES:La cirugía de cáncer de recto regionalizada mejora los resultados clínicos y reduce los costos sociales totales en comparación con la atención quirúrgica local. Es posible que se necesiten medidas prescriptivas e incentivos para los pacientes a fin de ampliar el papel de la cirugía regionalizada para el cáncer de recto. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/C83 . (Traducción- Dr. Francisco M. Abarca-Rendon ).

Evaluation of sarcopenia biomarkers in older patients undergoing major surgery for digestive cancer. SAXO prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

The aim of the study was to prospectively evaluate different biomarkers to identify the most reliable for anticipating complications after major abdominal surgery for digestive cancer in older patients and compare their performance to the existing definition and screening algorithm of sarcopenia from EWGSOP.

METHODS

Ninety-five consecutive patients aged over 65 years who underwent elective surgery for digestive cancer were prospectively included in the SAXO study. Sarcopenia was defined according to EWGSOP criteria (four level from no sarcopenia to severe sarcopenia). Strength and physical performance were evaluated with the handgrip test (HGT) and gait speed test (GST), respectively. CT scan analysis was used to calculate the skeletal muscle index (SMI), intermuscular adipose tissue (IMAT), visceral adipose tissue (VAT), and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT). Measures were adjusted to body mass index (BMI). Complication grading was performed using the Clavien‒Dindo classification. A doubly robust estimator with multivariable regression was used to limit bias.

RESULTS

Sixteen patients presented with sarcopenia. Adjusted to BMI, sarcopenic patients had an increased IMAT^BMI (0.35 vs. 0.22; p = 0.003) and increased VAT^BMI (7.85 vs. 6.13; p = 0.048). In multivariable analysis, IMAT was an independent risk factor for minor and severe complications (OR = 1.298; 95% CI [1.031: 1.635] p = 0.027), while an increased SAT area was a protective factor (OR = 0.982; 95% CI [0.969: 0.995] p = 0.007). Twenty-two patients were obese (BMI ≥30 kg/m²). While no association was observed between obesity and sarcopenia (according to EWGSOP definition), obese patients had increased IMAT^BMI (0.31 vs. 0.23; p = 0.010) and VAT^BMI (8.40 vs. 6.49; p = 0.019). The combination of SAT, VAT and IMAT performed well to anticipate severe complication (AUC = 0.759) while AUC of EWGSOP 2010 and 2019 algorithm were 0.660 and 0.519, respectively.

DISCUSSION

Non-invasive and imaging related measures of IMAT, SAT and VAT seems to be valuable tools to refine risk-assessment of older patients in surgery and specially to detect myosteatosis in obese ones.

Assessment of short readmissions following elective pulmonary lobectomy

BACKGROUND

Reducing readmissions is critical for improving patient care and lowering costs. Despite this, few studies have assessed length of readmission following pulmonary lobectomy.

METHODS

Using the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project New York State Inpatient Database, we identified adult patients undergoing elective pulmonary lobectomy (2007-2015) and assessed readmission within 30 days of hospital discharge. We analyzed the relationship between length of readmission and post-operative morbidity and mortality as well as primary diagnoses at readmission.

RESULTS

Of 19947 included patients, 2173 (10.9%) were readmitted within 30 days. The median (IQR) length of readmission was 5 (2-8) days. Longer length of readmission was associated with significantly higher likelihood of major complication (for every 1-day increase, aOR = 1.14, 95% CI = 1.12-1.17, p < 0.001) and mortality (aOR = 1.03, 95% CI = 1.02-1.04, p < 0.001) within 90 days. Primary diagnosis codes at readmission differed significantly with length of readmission.

CONCLUSIONS

Interventions that target short readmissions may help to prevent a proportion of readmissions following elective lung resection.

Failure to Rescue in Emergency General Surgery: Impact of Fragmentation of Care

OBJECTIVE

Compare EGS patient outcomes after index and nonindex hospital readmissions, and explore predictive factors for nonindex readmission.

BACKGROUND

Readmission to a different hospital leads to fragmentation of care. The impact of nonindex readmission on patient outcomes after EGS is not well established.

METHODS

The Nationwide Readmissions Database (2017) was queried for adult patients readmitted after an EGS procedure. Patients were stratified and propensity-matched according to readmission destination: index versus nonindex hospital. Outcomes were failure to rescue (FTR), mortality, number of subsequent readmissions, overall hospital length of stay, and total costs. Hierarchical logistic regression was performed to account for clustering effect within hospitals and adjusting for patient- and hospital-level potential confounding factors.

RESULTS

A total of 471,570 EGS patients were identified, of which 79,127 (16.8%) were readmitted within 30 days: index hospital (61,472; 77.7%) versus nonindex hospital (17,655; 22.3%). After 1:1 propensity matching, patients with nonindex readmission had higher rates of FTR (5.6% vs 4.3%; P < 0.001), mortality (2.7% vs 2.1%; P < 0.001), and overall hospital costs [in $1000; 37 (27-64) vs 28 (21-48); P < 0.001]. Nonindex readmission was independently associated with higher odds of FTR [adjusted odds ratio 1.18 (1.03-1.36); P < 0.001]. Predictors of nonindex readmission included top quartile for zip code median household income [1.35 (1.08-1.69); P < 0.001], fringe county residence [1.08 (1.01-1.16); P = 0.049], discharge to a skilled nursing facility [1.28 (1.20-1.36); P < 0.001], and leaving against medical advice [2.32 (1.81-2.98); P < 0.001].

CONCLUSION

One in 5 readmissions after EGS occur at a different hospital. Nonindex readmission carries a heightened risk of FTR.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III Prognostic.

STUDY TYPE

Prognostic.

Re-Admission in Patients with Necrotizing Soft Tissue Infections: Continuity of Care Matters

Background: Necrotizing soft tissue infections (NSTIs) are rapidly progressive infections with high mortality and complication rates. The incidence of NSTIs has been increasing steadily whereas mortality has decreased; survivors have a high risk of re-hospitalization. We hypothesized that re-admission to the index hospital where the first admission occurred would be associated with better clinical outcomes compared with re-admission to a non-index hospital. Patients and Methods: We identified patients from the 2017 Nationwide Readmissions Database with an index admission for NSTIs and examined all-cause re-admissions within 90 days of discharge. We noted whether re-admission occurred at the index or a non-index hospital. Survey-weighted logistic regression identified factors associated with death at the first re-admission and re-admission to index hospital. We also compared patient outcomes between patients admitted to index versus non-index hospitals. Results: We identified 27,051 NSTI survivors, of whom 6,954 (25.7%) had an unplanned re-admission within 90 days. A large proportion of re-admission occurred at non-index hospitals (28.3%; n = 1,966). Factors associated with non-index re-admission included prolonged index length of stay, discharge to short-term hospital, and leaving against medical advice. Patients re-admitted to index hospitals had a lower mortality rate (4.7% vs. 6.7%; p = 0.003), lower admission costs (in $1000; 45 [23-88] vs. 50 [24-104]; p = 0.004) and higher discharge rate to home (55.7% vs. 48.6%; p < 0.001). Conclusions: More than one-quarter of re-admissions among NSTI survivors were to non-index hospitals. Continuity of care is important because re-admission to the index hospital was associated with better patient outcomes.

Readmissions From Venous Thromboembolism After Complex Cancer Surgery

IMPORTANCE

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a major cause of preventable morbidity and mortality after cancer surgery. Venous thromboembolism events that are significant enough to require hospital readmission are potentially life threatening, yet data regarding the frequency of these events beyond the 30-day postoperative period remain limited.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the rates, outcomes, and predictive factors of readmissions owing to VTE up to 180 days after complex cancer operations, using a national data set.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

A retrospective cohort study of the 2016 Nationwide Readmissions Database was performed to study adult patients readmitted with a primary VTE diagnosis. Data obtained from 197 510 visits for 126 104 patients were analyzed. This was a multicenter, population-based, nationally representative study of patients who underwent a complex cancer operation (defined as cystectomy, colectomy, esophagectomy, gastrectomy, liver/biliary resection, lung/bronchus resection, pancreatectomy, proctectomy, prostatectomy, or hysterectomy) from January 1 through September 30, 2016, for a corresponding cancer diagnosis.

EXPOSURES

Readmission with a primary diagnosis of VTE.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Proportion of 30-, 90-, and 180-day VTE readmissions after complex cancer surgery, factors associated with readmissions, and outcomes observed during readmission visit, including mortality, length of stay, hospital cost, and readmission to index vs nonindex hospital.

RESULTS

For the 126 104 patients included in the study, 30-, 90-, and 180-day VTE-associated readmission rates were 0.6% (767 patients), 1.1% (1331 patients), and 1.7% (1449 of 83 337 patients), respectively. A majority of patients were men (58.7%), and the mean age was 65 years (SD, 11.5 years). For the 1331 patients readmitted for VTE within 90 days, 456 initial readmissions (34.3%) were to a different hospital than the index surgery hospital, median length of stay was 5 days (IQR, 3-7 days), median cost was $8102 (IQR, $5311-$10 982), and 122 patients died (9.2%). Independent factors associated with readmission included type of operation, scores for severity and risk of mortality, age of 75 to 84 years (odds ratio [OR], 1.30; 95% CI, 1.02-1.78), female sex (OR, 1.23; 95% CI, 1.11-1.37), nonelective index admission (OR, 1.31; 95% CI, 1.03-1.68), higher number of comorbidities (OR, 1.30; 95% CI, 1.06-1.60), and experiencing a major postoperative complication during the index admission (OR, 2.08; 95% CI, 1.85-2.33).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

In this cohort study, VTE-related readmissions after complex cancer surgery continued to increase well beyond 30 days after surgery. Quality improvement efforts to decrease the burden of VTE in postoperative patients should measure and account for these late VTE-related readmissions.

Predictors and Cost Comparison of Subsequent Urinary Stone Care at Index versus Non-Index Hospitals

OBJECTIVE

To examine the effects of care fragmentation, or the engagement of different health care systems along the continuum of care, on patients with urinary stone disease.

METHODS

All-payer data from the 2016 Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project (HCUP) State Databases from Florida (FL) and New York (NY) were used to identify a cohort of adult patients with an emergency department visit for a diagnosis of urolithiasis, who subsequently re-presented to an index or non-index hospital for renal colic and/or urological intervention. Patient demographics, regional data, and procedural information were collected and 30-day episode-based costs were calculated. Multivariable logistic and gamma generalized linear regression were utilized to identify predictors of receiving subsequent care at an index hospital and associated costs, respectively.

RESULTS

Of the 33,863 patients who experienced a subsequent encounter related to nephrolithiasis, 9,593 (28.3%) received care at a non-index hospital. Receiving subsequent care at the index hospital was associated with fewer acute care encounters prior to surgery (2.5 vs. 2.7; p <0.001) and less days to surgery (29 vs. 42; p < 0.001). Total episode-based costs were higher in the non-index setting, with a mean difference of $783 (Non-index: $13,672, 95% CI $13,292 - $14,053; Index: $12,889, 95% CI $12,677 - $13,102; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Re-presentation to a unique healthcare facility following an initial diagnosis of urolithiasis is associated with a greater number of episode-related health encounters, longer time to definitive surgery, and increased costs.

Preventable Emergency Department Visits After Colorectal Surgery

BACKGROUND

The emergency department plays a common and critical role in the treatment of postoperative patients. However, many quality improvement databases fail to record these interactions. As such, our understanding of the prevalence and etiology of postoperative emergency department visits in contemporary colorectal surgery is limited. Visits with potentially preventable etiologies represent a significant target for quality improvement, particularly in the current era of rapidly evolving postoperative and ambulatory care patterns.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to characterize postoperative emergency department visits and identify factors associated with these visits for potential intervention.

DESIGN

This was a retrospective cohort study.

SETTINGS

The study was conducted at an academic medical center.

PATIENTS

Consecutive patients undergoing colectomy or proctectomy within the division of colorectal surgery at an academic medical center between 2014 and 2018 were included.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Frequency and indication for emergency department visits, as well as clinical and sociodemographic factors associated with emergency department visits in the postoperative period, were included measures.

RESULTS

From the 1763 individual operations, there were 207 emergency department visits from 199 patients (11%) within 30 days of discharge. Two thirds of emergency department visits led to readmission. Median (interquartile range) time to presentation was 8 days (4-16 d). Median time in the emergency department was 7.8 hours (6.0-10.1 h). One third of visits were identified as potentially preventable, most commonly for pain (17%) and stoma complications (excluding dehydration; 13%). A primary language other than English was associated with any postoperative emergency department visit risk ratio of 2.7 (95% CI, 1.3-5.3), as well as a preventable visit risk ratio of 3.6 (95% CI, 1.7-8.0).

LIMITATIONS

This was a single-center study and a retrospective review.

CONCLUSIONS

One third of emergency department visits after colorectal surgery are potentially preventable. Special attention should be directed toward those patients who do not speak English as a primary language. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B648.

SE PUEDEN EVITAR LAS VISITAS AL SERVICIO DE URGENCIA DESPUS DE UNA CIRUGA COLORECTAL

ANTECEDENTES:Las unidades de emergencia tienen un rol fundamental en el periodo posterior a una cirugía. Sin embargo muchos de los registros en las bases de datos de estas secciones no son de buena calidad. Por esto analizar la prevalencia y etiología de las visitas postoperatorias en cirugía colorectal resulta ser bastante limitada. Para lograr una mejoría en la calidad es fundamental analizar las causas potencialmente evitables, especialmente al considerer la rapida evolucion de los parametros de medición actuales.OBJETIVO:Nuestro objetivo es caracterizar las visitas postoperatorias al servicio de urgencias e identificar los factores asociados potencialmente evitables.DISEÑO:Estudio de cohorte retrospectivo.AJUSTE:Centro médico académico, 2014-2018.PACIENTES:Pacientes consecutivos sometidos a colectomía o proctectomía dentro de la división de cirugía colorrectal en un centro médico académico entre 2014 y 2018.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE RESULTADO:Frecuencia e indicación de las visitas al servicio de urgencias en el period postoperatorio: factores clínicos y sociodemográficos.RESULTADOS:De 1763 operaciones individuales, hubo 207 visitas al departamento de emergencias de 199 pacientes (11%) en los 30 días posteriores al alta. Dos tercios de las visitas al servicio de urgencias dieron lugar a readmisiones. La mediana [rango intercuartílico] de tiempo hasta la presentación fue de 8 [4-16] días. La mediana de tiempo en el servicio de urgencias fue de 7,8 [6-10,1] horas. Un tercio de las visitas se identificaron como potencialmente evitables, más comúnmente dolor (17%) y complicaciones del estoma (excluida la deshidratación) (13%). En los pacientes con poco manejo del inglés se asoció con una mayor frecuencia razón de visitas al departamento de emergencias posoperatorias [IC del 95%] 2,7 [1,3-5,3], así como opetancialmente evitables con un RR de 3,6 [1,7-8,0].LIMITACIONES:Estudio de un solo centro y revisión retrospectiva.CONCLUSIÓN:Al menos un tercio de las visitas al servicio de urgencias después de una cirugía colorrectal son potencialmente evitables. Se debe prestar especial atención a los pacientes que no hablan inglés como idioma materno. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B648.

Characteristics and Outcomes of Pediatric Nonindex Readmission: Evidence From Florida Hospitals

OBJECTIVES

Increasing pediatric care regionalization may inadvertently fragment care if children are readmitted to a different (nonindex) hospital rather than the discharge (index) hospital. Therefore, this study aimed to assess trends in pediatric nonindex readmission rates, examine the risk factors, and determine if this destination difference affects readmission outcomes.

METHODS

In this retrospective cohort study, we use the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project State Inpatient Database to include pediatric (0 to 18 years) admissions from 2010 to 2017 across Florida hospitals. Risk factors of nonindex readmissions were identified by using logistic regression analyses. The differences in outcomes between index versus nonindex readmissions were compared for in-hospital mortality, morbidity, hospital cost, length of stay, against medical advice discharges, and subsequent hospital visits by using generalized linear regression models.

RESULTS

Among 41 107 total identified readmissions, 5585 (13.6%) were readmitted to nonindex hospitals. Adjusted nonindex readmission rate increased from 13.3% in 2010% to 15.4% in 2017. Patients in the nonindex readmissions group were more likely to be adolescents, live in poor neighborhoods, have higher comorbidity scores, travel longer distances, and be discharged at the postacute facility. After risk adjusting, no difference in in-hospital mortality was found, but morbidity was 13% higher, and following unplanned emergency department visits were 28% higher among patients with nonindex readmissions. Length of stay, hospital costs, and against medical advice discharges were also significantly higher for nonindex readmissions.

CONCLUSIONS

A substantial proportion of children experienced nonindex readmissions and relatively poorer health outcomes compared with index readmission. Targeted strategies for improving continuity of care are necessary to improve readmission outcomes.

Social vulnerability and fragmentation of postoperative surgical care among patients undergoing hepatopancreatic surgery

BACKGROUND

Regionalization of hepatopancreatic surgery to high-volume hospitals has been associated with fragmentation of postoperative care and, in turn, inferior outcomes after surgery. The objective of this study was to examine the association of social vulnerability with the likelihood of experiencing fragmentation of postoperative care (FPC) after hepatopancreatic surgery.

METHODS

Patients who underwent hepatopancreatic surgery and had at least 1 readmission within 90 days were identified using Medicare 100% Standard Analytical Files between 2013 and 2017. Fragmentation of postoperative care was defined as readmission at a hospital other than the index institution where the initial surgery was performed. The association of social vulnerability index and its components with fragmentation of postoperative care was examined.

RESULTS

Among 11,142 patients, 8,053 (72.3%) underwent pancreatectomy, and 3,089 (27.7%) underwent hepatectomy. The overall incidence of fragmentation of postoperative care was 32.9% (n = 3,667). Patients who experienced fragmentation of postoperative care were older (73 years [interquartile range: 69-77]_FPC vs 72 years [interquartile range: 68-77]_non-FPC) and had a higher Charlson comorbidity score (4 [interquartile range: 2-8]_FPC vs 3 [interquartile range: 2-8]_non-FPC) (both P < .001). Median overall social vulnerability index was higher among patients who experienced fragmentation of postoperative care (52.5 [interquartile range: 29.3-70.4]_FPC vs 51.3 [interquartile range: 27.9-69.4]_non-FPC, P = .02). On multivariable analysis, the odds of experiencing fragmentation of postoperative care was higher with increasing overall social vulnerability index (odds ratio: 1.14; 95% confidence interval 1.01-1.30). Additionally, the odds of experiencing fragmentation of postoperative care were higher among patients with high vulnerability owing to their socioeconomic status (odds ratio: 1.28; 95% confidence interval 1.12-1.45) or their household composition and disability (odds ratio: 1.35; 95% confidence interval 1.19-1.54), whereas high vulnerability owing to minority status and language was inversely associated with fragmentation of postoperative care (odds ratio: 0.73; 95% confidence interval 0.64-0.84).

CONCLUSION

Social vulnerability was strongly associated with the odds of experiencing fragmented postoperative care after hepatopancreatic surgery.

U.S. trends in elective and emergent major abdominal surgical procedures from 2002 to 2014 in older adults

BACKGROUND

The U.S. population is aging and projected to undergo an increasing number of general surgical procedures. However, recent trends in the frequency of major abdominal procedures in older adults are currently unknown as improvements in non-operative interventions may obviate the need for major surgery. Thus, we evaluated the trends of major abdominal surgical procedures in older adults in the United States.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective cohort study using the National Inpatient Sample from 2002 to 2014 with trend analysis using National Cancer Institute's Joinpoint Trend Analysis Software. We identified the average annual percent change (AAPC) in the yearly frequency of major abdominal surgical procedures in older adults (≥50 years of age).

RESULTS

Our cohort included a total of 3,951,947 survey-weighted discharges that included a major abdominal surgery in adults ≥50 years of age between 2002 and 2014. Of these discharges, 2,529,507 (64.0%) were for elective abdominal surgeries, 2,062,835 (52.0%) were for female patients, and mean (SD) age was 61.4 (15.9) years. The frequency of major abdominal procedures (elective and emergent) decreased for adults aged 65-74 (AAPC: -1.43, -1.75, -1.11, p < 0.0001), 75-84 (AAPC: -2.75, -3.33, -2.16, p < 0.001), and ≥85 (AAPC: -4.07, -4.67, -3.47, p < 0.0001). The AAPC for elective procedures decreased for older adults aged 75-84 (AAPC = -1.65; -2.44, -0.85: p = 0.0001) and >85 (AAPC = -3.53; -4.57, -2.48: p < 0.0001). All age groups showed decreases in emergent procedures in 50-64 (AAPC = -1.76, -2.00, -1.52, p < 0.0001), 65-74 (AAPC = -3.59, -4.03, -3.14, p < 0.0001), 75-84 (AAPC = -3.90, -4.34, -3.46, p < 0.0001), ≥85 (AAPC = -4.58, -4.98, -4.17, p < 0.0001) age groups.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

In this cohort of older adults, the frequency of emergent and elective major abdominal procedures in adults ≥65 years of age decreased with significant variation among individual procedure types. Future studies are needed to identify the generalizability of our findings to other surgical procedures.

Factors Associated With Readmission in the United States Following Hospitalization With Coronavirus Disease 2019

BACKGROUND

Patients hospitalized for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) may experience complications following hospitalization and require readmission. In this analysis, we estimated the rate and risk factors associated with COVID-19-related readmission and inpatient mortality.

METHODS

In this retrospective cohort study, we used deidentified chargemaster data from 297 hospitals across 40 US states on patients hospitalized with COVID-19 from 15 February 2020 through 9 June 2020. Demographics, comorbidities, acute conditions, and clinical characteristics of first hospitalization are summarized. Multivariable logistic regression was used to measure risk factor associations with 30-day readmission and in-hospital mortality.

RESULTS

Among 29 659 patients, 1070 (3.6%) were readmitted. Readmitted patients were more likely to have diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease (CVD), or chronic kidney disease (CKD) vs those not readmitted (P < .0001) and to present on first admission with acute kidney injury (15.6% vs 9.2%), congestive heart failure (6.4% vs 2.4%), or cardiomyopathy (2.1% vs 0.8%) (P < .0001). Higher odds of readmission were observed in patients aged >60 vs 18-40 years (odds ratio [OR], 1.92; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.48-2.50) and those admitted in the Northeast vs West (OR, 1.43; 95% CI, 1.14-1.79) or South (OR, 1.28; 95% CI, 1.11-1.49). Comorbidities including diabetes (OR, 1.34; 95% CI, 1.12-1.60), CVD (OR, 1.46; 95% CI, 1.23-1.72), CKD stage 1-5 (OR, 1.51; 95% CI, 1.25-1.81), and CKD stage 5 (OR, 2.27; 95% CI, 1.81-2.86) were associated with higher odds of readmission; 12.3% of readmitted patients died during second hospitalization.

CONCLUSIONS

Among this large US population of patients hospitalized with COVID-19, readmission was associated with certain comorbidities and acute conditions during first hospitalization. These findings may inform strategies to mitigate risks of readmission due to COVID-19 complications.

Hospitalization Costs and Outcomes of Open, Laparoscopic, and Robotic Liver Resections

INTRODUCTION

Most liver resections performed in the United States are open. With the ever-increasing role of robotic surgery, our study's role is to assess national outcomes based on the surgical approach.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis of the 2015 National Readmission Database (NRD). We selected patients undergoing open, laparoscopic, and robotic hepatectomy. Propensity score matching was performed to match the three groups in terms of demographics, hospital characteristics, and resection type. Our primary outcome was 6-month readmission rates and associated costs.

RESULTS

3,872 patients were included in the analysis (open = 3,420, laparoscopic = 343, and robotic = 109). Robotic liver resection has lower 6-month readmission rates (18.3%) than the laparoscopic (26.7%) and open (30%) counterparts. The robotic approach was more cost-effective ($127,716.56 ± 12,567.31) than the open ($157,880.82 ± 18,560.2) and laparoscopic approach ($152,060.78 ± 8,890.13) in terms of the total cost which includes cost per readmission.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a financial benefit of using robotics in terms of cost, hospital length of stay, and readmission rates in patients undergoing liver resection, cost.

Postoperative care fragmentation in bariatric surgery and risk of mortality: a nationwide study

BACKGROUND

Readmission after bariatric surgery may to lead to fragmentation of care if readmission occurs at a facility other than the index hospital. The effect of readmission to a nonindex hospital on postoperative mortality remains unclear for bariatric surgery.

OBJECTIVES

To determine postoperative mortality rates according to readmission destinations.

SETTING

Nationwide analysis of all surgical facilities in France.

METHODS

Multicenter, nationwide study of adult patients undergoing bariatric surgery from January 1, 2013, through December 31, 2018. Data from all surgical facilities in France were extracted from a national hospital discharge database.

RESULTS

In a cohort of 278,600 patients who received bariatric surgery, 12,760 (4.6%) were readmitted within 30 days. In cases of readmission, 23% of patients were admitted to a nonindex hospital. Patients readmitted to a nonindex facility had different characteristics regarding sex (men, 23.6% versus 18.2%, respectively; P < .001), co-morbidities (Charlson Co-morbidity Index, .74 versus .53, respectively; P < .001), and travel distance (38.3 km versus 26.9 km, respectively; P < .001) than patients readmitted to the index facility. The main reasons for readmission were leak/peritonitis and abdominal pain. The overall mortality rate after readmission was .56%. The adjusted odds ratio (OR) of mortality for the nonindex group was 4.96 (95% confidence interval [CI], 3.1-8.1; P < .001). In the subgroups of patients with a gastric leak, the mortality rate was 1.5% and the OR was 8.26 (95% CI, 3.7-19.6; P < .001).

CONCLUSION

Readmissions to a nonindex hospital are associated with a 5-fold greater mortality rate. The management of readmission for complications after bariatric surgery should be considered as a major issue to reduce potentially preventable deaths.

Contributors to Increased Mortality Associated With Care Fragmentation After Emergency General Surgery

Importance

Care fragmentation at time of readmission after emergency general surgery (EGS) is associated with high mortality; however, the factors underlying this finding remain unclear.

Objective

To identify patient and hospital factors associated with increased mortality among patients after EGS readmitted within 30 days of discharge to a nonindex hospital.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Retrospective cohort study using the 2014 Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project Nationwide Readmissions Database. Participants were all adult patients (18 years or older) who underwent 1 of the 15 most common EGS procedures in the United States from January 1 to November 30, 2014, and survived to discharge. The dates of analysis were October through December 2019.

Exposures

Thirty-day readmission to a hospital other than that of the index surgical procedure. The study examined the association of interventions during readmission, change in hospital resource level, and severity of patient illness during readmission.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Ninety-day inpatient mortality.

Results

In total, 71 944 patients who underwent EGS (mean [SD] age, 59.0 [18.3] years; 53.5% [38 487 of 71 944] female) were readmitted within 30 days of discharge, of whom 10 495 (14.6%) were readmitted to a nonindex hospital. Compared with patients readmitted to index hospitals, patients readmitted to nonindex hospitals were more likely to be readmitted to hospitals with low annual EGS volume (33.5% vs 25.6%, P < .001) and be in the top half of illness severity profile (37.2% vs 31.2%, P < .001). Overall 90-day mortality was higher in the patients readmitted to nonindex hospitals (6.1% vs 4.3%, P < .001). When adjusted for baseline patient and hospital characteristics, care fragmentation was independently associated with increased mortality (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.36; 95% CI, 1.17-1.58; P < .001). After adjustment for interventions performed during readmission, change in EGS hospital volume level, and severity of patient illness, care fragmentation was no longer independently associated with mortality (aOR, 1.05; 95% CI, 0.88-1.26; P = .58). In this complete model, severity of illness was the strongest risk factor of mortality during readmission.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study of adult patients who require rehospitalization after EGS, 14.6% are readmitted to a hospital other than where the index procedure was performed. Although the overall mortality rate is higher for this population, the excess mortality appears to be primarily associated with severity of patient illness at time of readmission. These data underscore the need to develop systems of care to rapidly triage patients to hospitals best equipped to manage their condition.

Predischarge Prediction of Readmission After Cytoreductive Surgery and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy: Derivation and Validation of a Risk Prediction Score

BACKGROUND

Ninety-day hospital readmission rates following cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (CRS/HIPEC) range from 20 to 40%.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to develop and validate a simple score to predict readmissions following CRS/HIPEC.

STUDY DESIGN

Using a prospectively maintained database, we retrospectively reviewed clinicopathologic, perioperative, and day-of-discharge data for patients undergoing CRS/HIPEC for peritoneal surface malignancies between 2010 and 2018. In-hospital mortalities and discharges to hospice were excluded. Multivariate logistic regression was utilized to identify predictors of unplanned readmission, with three-quarters of the sample randomly selected as the derivation cohort and one-quarter as the validation cohort. Using regression coefficient-based scoring methods, we developed a weighted 7-factor, 10-point predictive score for risk of readmission.

RESULTS

Overall, 1068 eligible discharges were analyzed; 379 patients were readmitted within 90 days (35.5%). Seven factors were associated with readmission: stoma creation, Peritoneal Cancer Index score ≥ 15, hyponatremia, in-hospital major complication, preoperative chemotherapy, anemia, and discharge to nursing home. In the validation cohort, 25 patients (9.2%) were categorized as high risk for readmission, with a predicted rate of readmission of 69.3% and an observed rate of 76.0%. The score had fair discrimination (area under the curve 0.70) and good calibration (Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness-of-fit p-value of 0.77).

CONCLUSION

Our proposed risk score, easily obtainable on day of discharge, distinguishes patients at high risk for readmission over 90 days following CRS/HIPEC. This score has the potential to target high-risk individuals for intensive follow-up and other interventions.

Outcomes after readmission at the index or nonindex hospital following acute myocardial infarction complicated by cardiogenic shock

Little is known about the prevalence and outcomes of readmission to nonindex hospitals after an admission for acute myocardial infarction complicated by cardiogenic shock (AMI‐CS). We aimed to determine the rate of nonindex readmissions following AMI‐CS and to evaluate its association with clinical factors, hospitalization cost, length of stay (LOS), and in‐hospital mortality rates.

Hypothesis

Nonindex readmission may lead to worse in‐hospital outcomes.

Methods

We reviewed the data of inpatients with AMI‐CS between 2010 and 2017 using the National Readmission Database. The survey analytical methods recommended by the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project were used for national estimates. Multiple regression models were used to evaluate the predictors of nonindex readmission, and its association with hospitalization cost, LOS, and in‐hospital mortality rates.

Results

Of 238 349 patients with AMI‐CS, 28028 (11.76%) had an unplanned readmission within 30 days. Of these patients, 7423 (26.48%) were readmitted to nonindex hospitals. Compared with index readmission, nonindex readmission was associated with higher hospitalization costs (p < .0001), longer LOS (p < .0001), and increased in‐hospital mortality rates (p = .0016). Patients who had a history of percutaneous coronary intervention, received intubation/mechanical ventilation, or left against medical advice during the initial admission had greater odds of a nonindex readmission.

Conclusions

Over one‐fourth of readmissions following AMI‐CS were to nonindex hospitals. These admissions were associated with higher hospitalization costs, longer LOS, and higher in‐hospital mortality rates. Further studies are needed to evaluate whether a continuity of care plan in the acute hospital setting can improve outcomes after AMI‐CS.

Increased complication and mortality among non-index hospital readmissions after brain tumor resection is associated with low-volume readmitting hospitals

OBJECTIVE

Fragmentation of care following craniotomy for tumor resection is increasingly common with the regionalization of neurosurgery. Hospital readmission to a hospital (non-index) other than the one from which patients received their original care (index) has been associated with increases in both morbidity and mortality for cancer patients. The impact of non-index readmission after surgical management of brain tumors has not previously been evaluated. The authors set out to determine rates of non-index readmission following craniotomy for tumor resection and evaluated outcomes following index and non-index readmissions.

METHODS

Retrospective analyses of data from cases involving resection of a primary brain tumor were conducted using data from the Nationwide Readmissions Database (NRD) for 2010-2014. Multivariate logistic regression was used to evaluate the independent association of patient and hospital factors with readmission to an index versus non-index hospital. Further analysis evaluated association of non-index versus index hospital readmission with mortality and major complications during readmission. Effects of readmission hospital procedure volume on mortality and morbidity were evaluated in post hoc analysis.

RESULTS

In a total of 17,459 unplanned readmissions, 84.4% patients were readmitted to index hospitals and 15.6% to non-index hospitals. Patient factors associated with increased likelihood of non-index readmission included older age (75+: OR 1.44, 95% CI 1.19-1.75), elective index admission (OR 1.19, 95% CI 1.08-1.30), increased Elixhauser comorbidity score ≥2 (OR 1.18, 95% CI 1.01-1.37), and malignant tumor diagnosis (OR 1.32, 95% CI 1.19-1.45) (all p < 0.04). Readmission to a non-index facility was associated with a 28% increase in major complications (OR 1.28, 95% CI 1.14-1.43, p < 0.001) and 21% increase in mortality (OR 1.21, 95% CI 1.02-1.44, p = 0.032) in initial analysis. Following a second multivariable logistic regression analysis including the readmitting hospital characteristics, low procedure volume of a readmitting facility was significantly associated with non-index readmission (p < 0.001). Readmission to a lower-procedure-volume facility was associated with a 46%-75% increase in mortality (OR 1.46-1.75, p < 0.005) and a 21%-35% increase in major complications (OR 1.21-1.34, p < 0.005). Following adjustment for volume at a readmitting facility, admission to a non-index facility was no longer associated with mortality (OR 0.90, 95% CI 0.71-1.14, p = 0.378) or major complications (OR 1.09, CI 0.94-1.26, p = 0.248).

CONCLUSIONS

Of patient readmissions following brain tumor resection, 15.6% occur at a non-index facility. Low procedure volume is a confounder for non-index analysis and is associated with an increased likelihood of major complications and mortality, as compared to readmission to high-procedure-volume hospitals. Further studies should evaluate interventions targeting factors associated with unplanned readmission.

Fragmented Care in the Treatment of Rectal Cancer and Time to Definitive Therapy

BACKGROUND

The National Accreditation Program for Rectal Cancer (NAPRC) emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach for treating rectal cancer and has developed performance measures to ensure that patients receive standardized care. We hypothesized that rectal cancer patients receiving care at multiple centers would be less likely to receive timely and appropriate care.

STUDY DESIGN

A single institution retrospective review of a prospectively maintained database was performed. All patients undergoing proctectomy and ≤1 other treatment modality (eg radiation and/or chemotherapy) for Stage II/III rectal adenocarcinoma were included. Unified care was defined as receiving all modalities of care at our institution, and fragmented care was defined as having at least 1 treatment modality at another institution.

RESULTS

From 2009 to 2019, 415 patients met inclusion criteria, with 197 (47.5%) receiving fragmented care and 218 (52.5%) receiving unified care. The unified cohort patients were more likely to see a colorectal surgeon before starting treatment (89.0% vs 78.7%, p < 0.01) and start definitive treatment within 60 days of diagnosis (89.0% vs 79.7%, p = 0.01). On adjusted analysis, unified care patients were 2.78 times more likely to see a surgeon before starting treatment (95% CI 1.47-5.24) and 2.63 times more likely to start treatment within 60 days (95% CI 1.35-5.13). There was no difference in 90-day mortality or 5-year disease-free survival.

CONCLUSIONS

This retrospective cohort study suggests patients with rectal cancer receiving fragmented care are at an increased risk of delays in care without any impact on disease-free survival. These findings need to be considered within the context of ongoing regionalization of rectal cancer care to ensure all patients receive optimal care, irrespective of whether care is delivered across multiple institutions.

Readmission with venous thromboembolism after surgical treatment by primary cancer site

BACKGROUND

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a common, high-mortality condition among surgical cancer patients. Comprehensive analyses of VTE among postoperative cancer patients are lacking. We sought to determine the association between readmission with VTE and primary cancer diagnosis in a nationwide database at 90- and 180-days after initial admission for cancer surgery.

METHODS

Retrospective analyses of post-surgical cancer patients readmitted with VTE were conducted using data from the Nationwide Readmissions Database (NRD) (2010-2014). Multivariate logistic regression models adjusting for patient and hospital factors were used to determine 90- and 180-day readmission rates for VTE by cancer type. Patient factors associated with readmission were also examined.

RESULTS

Among a sample of 535,992 cancer patients undergoing tumor resection, readmission with VTE occurred in 1.7% within 90-days and 2.3% within 180-days. Patients readmitted for VTE experienced a 7% mortality rate. Highest rates of VTE readmission at 180 days occurred in brain (6.7%), pancreatic (5.6%), and respiratory and intrathoracic cancers (4.4%). Using pancreatic cancer as reference, brain cancer had the highest odds of readmission at 180-days (OR 2.23, 95% CI [1.95-2.55]).

CONCLUSION

Readmission with VTE among surgical cancer patients occurred in 2.3% of patients within 180 days. Among cancer types, primary brain cancer was independently associated with readmission with VTE.

Burden and Outcomes of Fragmentation of Care in Hospitalized Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Diseases: A Nationally Representative Cohort

BACKGROUND

Fragmentation of care (FoC) may adversely impact health care quality in patients with chronic diseases. We conducted a US nationally representative cohort study to evaluate the burden and outcomes of FoC in hospitalized patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

METHODS

Using Nationwide Readmissions Database 2013, we created 2 cohorts of superutilizer patients with IBD with 2 hospitalizations (cohort 1: FoC, defined as readmission to nonindex hospital vs no FoC) or 3 hospitalizations (cohort 2: multiple episodes of fragmentation vs single episode of fragmentation vs no FoC) between January and June 2013, which were followed through December 2013. We evaluated burden, pattern, and outcomes of fragmentation (6-month risk of readmission, risk of surgery, and inpatient mortality).

RESULTS

In cohort 1, of 6073 patients with IBD with 2 admissions within 6 months, 1394 (23%) experienced FoC. Fragmentation of care was associated with modestly higher risk of readmission within 6 months (31% vs 28%, P < 0.01; adjusted relative risk, 1.11 [1.01-1.21]), without differences in risk of surgery (2.8% vs 4.3%, P = 0.19) or in-hospital mortality (0.2% vs 0.5%, P = 0.22). In cohort 2, of 1717 patients with 3 hospitalizations within 6 months, the number of patients with multiple episodes of fragmentation was associated with higher risk of readmission compared with patients with single episode of fragmentation or no FoC (52% vs 49% vs 43%, P = 0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

In a US cohort study, FoC is associated with a modestly higher risk of readmission, without higher risk of surgery or mortality in superutilizer patients with IBD. Future studies focusing on impact of outpatient care and postdischarge coordination are warranted in superutilizer patients.

Readmissions Within 48 Hours of Discharge: Reasons, Risk Factors, and Potential Improvements

BACKGROUND

Hospital readmission rate is an important quality metric and has been recognized as a key measure of hospital value-based purchasing programs.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to assess the risk factors for hospital readmission with a focus on potentially preventable early readmissions within 48 hours of discharge.

DESIGN

This is a retrospective cohort study.

SETTINGS

This study was conducted at a tertiary academic facility with a standardized enhanced recovery pathway.

PATIENTS

Consecutive patients undergoing elective major colorectal resections between 2011 and 2016 were included.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Univariable and multivariable risk factors for overall and early (<48 hours) readmissions were identified. Specific surgical and medical reasons for readmission were compared between early and late readmissions.

RESULTS

In total, 526 of 4204 patients (12.5%) were readmitted within 30 days of discharge. Independent risk factors were ASA score (≥3; OR, 1.5; 95% CI, 1.1-2), excess perioperative weight gain (OR, 1.7; 95% CI, 1.3-2.3), ileostomy (OR, 1.4; 95% CI, 1-2), and transfusion (OR, 2; 95% CI, 1.4-3), or reoperation (OR, 11.4; 95% CI, 7.4-17.5) during the index stay. No potentially preventable risk factor for early readmission (128 patients, 24.3% of all readmissions, 3% of total cohort) was identified, and index hospital stay of ≤3 days was not associated with increased readmission (OR, 0.9; 95% CI, 0.7-1.2). Although ileus and small-bowel obstruction (early: 43.8% vs late: 15.5%, p < 0.001) were leading causes for early readmissions, deep infections (3.9% vs 16.3%, p < 0.001) and acute kidney injury (0% vs 5%, p = 0.006) were mainly observed during readmissions after 48 hours.

LIMITATIONS

Risk of underreporting due to loss of follow-up and the potential co-occurrence of complications were limitations of this study.

CONCLUSIONS

Early hospital readmission was mainly due to ileus or bowel obstruction, whereas late readmissions were related to deep infections and acute kidney injury. A suspicious attitude toward potential ileus-related symptoms before discharge and dedicated education for ostomy patients are important. A short index hospital stay was not associated with increased readmission rates. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B237. REINGRESOS DENTRO DE LAS 48 HORAS POSTERIORES AL ALTA: RAZONES, FACTORES DE RIESGO Y POSIBLES MEJORAS: La tasa de reingreso hospitalario es una métrica de calidad importante y ha sido reconocida como una medida clave de los programas hospitalarios de compras basadas en el valor.Evaluar los factores de riesgo para el reingreso hospitalario con énfasis en reingresos tempranos potencialmente prevenibles dentro de las 48 horas posteriores al alta.Estudio de cohorte retrospectivo.Institución académica terciaria con programa de recuperación mejorada estandarizado.Pacientes consecutivos sometidos a resecciones colorrectales mayores electivas entre 2011 y 2016.Se identificaron factores de riesgo uni y multivariables para reingresos totales y tempranos (<48 horas). Se compararon razones médicas y quirúrgicas específicas para el reingreso entre reingresos tempranos y tardíos.En total, 526/4204 pacientes (12,5%) fueron readmitidos dentro de los 30 días posteriores al alta. Los factores de riesgo independientes fueron puntuación ASA (≥3, OR 1.5; IC 95% 1.1-2), aumento de peso perioperatorio excesivo (OR 1.7; IC 95% 1.3-2.3), ileostomía (OR 1.4, IC 95%: 1-2) y transfusión (OR 2, IC 95% 1.4-3) o reoperación (OR 11.4; IC 95% 7.4-17.5) durante la estadía índice. No se identificó ningún factor de riesgo potencialmente prevenible para el reingreso temprano (128 pacientes, 24.3% de todos los reingresos, 3% de la cohorte total), y la estadía hospitalaria índice de ≤ 3 días no se asoció con un aumento en el reingreso (OR 0.9; IC 95% 0.7-1.2) Mientras que el íleo / obstrucción del intestino delgado (temprano: 43.8% vs. tardío: 15.5%, p < 0.001) fueron las principales causas de reingresos tempranos, infecciones profundas (3.9% vs 16.3%, p < 0.001) y lesión renal aguda (0 vs 5%, p = 0.006) se observaron principalmente durante los reingresos después de 48 horas.Riesgo de subregistro debido a la pérdida en el seguimiento, posible co-ocurrencia de complicaciones.El reingreso hospitalario temprano se debió principalmente a íleo u obstrucción intestinal, mientras que los reingresos tardíos se relacionaron con infecciones profundas y lesión renal aguda. Es importante tener una actitud suspicaz hacia los posibles síntomas relacionados con el íleo antes del alta y una educación específica para los pacientes con ostomía. La estadía hospitalaria índice corta no se asoció con mayores tasas de reingreso. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B237.

Quantifying the Impact of Care Fragmentation on Outcomes After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation

The Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services has identified readmission as an important quality metric in assessing hospital performance and value of care. The aim of this study was to quantify the impact of "care fragmentation" on transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) outcomes. Readmission to nonindex hospitals was defined as any hospital other than the hospital where the TAVI was performed. In this multicenter, population-based, nationally representative study, a nationally weighted cohort of US adult patients who underwent TAVI in the National Readmission Database between 01/01/2010 and 9/31/2015 were analyzed. Patient characteristics, trends, and outcomes after 90-day nonindex readmission were evaluated. Thirty-day metric was used as a reference group for comparison. A weighted total of 51,092 patients met inclusion criteria. Overall, the 90-day readmission rate after TAVI was 27.6% (30-day reference group: 17.4%), and 42% of these readmissions were to nonindex hospitals. Noncardiac causes accounted for most nonindex readmissions, but major cardiac procedures were more likely performed at index hospitals during readmission within 90 days. Despite the high co-morbidity burden of patients readmitted to nonindex hospitals, unadjusted and risk-adjusted all-cause mortality, readmission length of stay and total hospital costs following nonindex readmission were lower compared with index readmission at 90 days. In conclusion, in this real world, nationally representative cohort of TAVI patients in the United States, care fragmentation remains prevalent and represent an enduring, residual target for future health policies. Although the impactful readmissions may be directed toward index hospitals, concerted efforts are needed to address mechanisms that increase care fragmentation.

Fragmentation of postpartum readmissions in the United States

BACKGROUND

Fragmentation of care, wherein a patient is readmitted to a hospital different from the initial point of care, has been shown to be associated with worse patient outcomes in other medical specialties. However, postpartum fragmentation of care has not been well characterized in obstetrics.

OBJECTIVE

To characterize risk for and outcomes associated with fragmentation of postpartum readmissions wherein the readmitting hospital is different than the delivery hospital.

METHODS

The 2010 to 2014 Nationwide Readmissions Database was used for this retrospective cohort study. Postpartum readmissions within 60 days of delivery hospitalization discharge for women aged 15-54 years were identified. The primary outcome, fragmentation, was defined as readmission to a different hospital than the delivery hospital. Hospital, demographic, medical, and obstetric factors associated with fragmented readmission were analyzed. Adjusted log-linear models were performed to analyze risk for readmission with adjusted risk ratios and 95% confidence intervals as the measures of effect. The associations between fragmentation and secondary outcomes including (1) length of stay >90th percentile, (2) hospitalization costs >90th percentile, and (3) severe maternal morbidity were determined. Whether specific indications for readmission such as hypertensive diseases of pregnancy, wound complications, and other conditions were associated with higher or lower risk for fragmentation was analyzed.

RESULTS

From 2010 to 2014, 141,276 60-day postpartum readmissions were identified, of which 15% of readmissions (n = 21,789) occurred at a hospital different from where the delivery occurred. Evaluating individual readmission indications, fragmentation was less likely for hypertension (11.1%), wound complications (10.7%), and uterine infections (11.0%), and more likely for heart failure (28.6%), thromboembolism (28.4%), and upper respiratory infections (33.9%) (P < .01 for all). In the adjusted analysis, factors associated with fragmentation included public insurance compared to private insurance (Medicare: adjusted risk ratio, 1.68; 95% confidence interval, 1.52, 1.86; Medicaid: adjusted risk ratio, 1.28; 95% confidence interval, 1.24, 1.32). Fragmentation was associated with increased risk for severe maternal morbidity during readmissions in both unadjusted (relative risk, 1.84; 95% confidence interval, 1.79, 1.89) and adjusted (adjusted risk ratio, 1.81; 95% confidence interval, 1.76, 1.86) analyses. In adjusted analyses, fragmentation was also associated with increased risk for length of stay >90th percentile (relative risk, 1.48; 95% confidence interval, 1.42-1.54) and hospitalization costs >90th percentile (adjusted risk ratio, 1.74; 95% confidence interval, 1.67, 1.81).

CONCLUSION

This study of nationwide estimates of postpartum fragmentation found discontinuity of postpartum care was associated with increased risk for severe morbidity, high costs, and long length of stay. Reduction of fragmentation may represent an important goal in overall efforts to improve postpartum care.

Impact of the integrated comprehensive care program post-thoracic surgery: A propensity score-matched study

OBJECTIVE

Thoracic surgery is associated with significant rates of postoperative morbidity and postdischarge return to the hospital or emergency department (ED). This study aims to assess the impact of a novel integrated patient-centered, hospital-based multidisciplinary community program (Integrated Comprehensive Care [ICC]) on postdischarge outcomes in patients undergoing thoracic surgery compared to routine care.

METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study of patients who underwent surgical resection for lung malignancies at a tertiary care center from 2010 to 2014. Patients were divided into 2 cohorts based on their enrollment in the ICC program (intervention cohort; 2012-2014) or routine postoperative care (control cohort; 2010-2012). Propensity score matching was performed to match the 2 cohorts. The impact of the ICC program on postoperative length of stay (LOS), rate of ED visits, readmissions, and mortality within the first 60 days was assessed.

RESULTS

Of the 1288 patients included in this study, 658 (51.1%) were male patients with mean age of 64 years (standard deviation 14.1 years). After propensity score matching, 478 patients were enrolled in the ICC cohort and 592 were enrolled as controls. The ICC cohort had significantly shorter LOS (4 days, vs 5 days in controls, P = .001), lower rate of 60-day ED visits (9.8% vs 28.4% in controls, P < .001), and readmissions (6.9% vs 8.6% in controls, P < .001). The 60-day mortality was also significantly lower in the ICC cohort compared with the control group (0.6% vs 0.8% in controls, P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

The ICC program is associated with shorter LOS, fewer ED visits and readmissions after discharge, and ultimately may decrease postoperative mortality.

Readmissions after ovarian cancer cytoreduction surgery: The first 30 days and beyond

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Postoperative readmissions are often used to assess quality of surgical care. This study compared 30-day vs 31- to 90-day readmission following surgery for ovarian, fallopian tube, or primary peritoneal cancer.

METHODS

This retrospective study of the 2010-2015 Nationwide Readmissions Database characterized 90-day readmissions following cytoreductive surgery for these cancers. Each patient's first postoperative hospitalization was included. Univariate analysis compared patient demographics and reasons for readmission. Multivariable regression identified independent predictors of readmission.

RESULTS

Of an estimated 76 652 patients, 10 264 (13.4%) were readmitted within 30 days, and 6942 (9.1%) between 31 and 90 days. The 30-day readmissions were more frequently associated with postoperative infection, while 31- to 90-day readmissions were more frequently associated with renal or hematologic diagnoses. Predictors of any 90-day readmission included index hospitalization longer than 7 days (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 1.61 [1.48-1.75], P < .001), extended surgical procedure (AOR 1.41 [1.30-1.53], P < .001), pulmonary circulation disorder (AOR = 1.34 [1.13-1.60], P = .001), and diabetes mellitus (AOR = 1.12 [1.02-1.24], P = .020).

CONCLUSIONS

Readmission rates remain high during the 31- to 90-day postoperative period in ovarian cancer patients, although these readmissions are less frequently related to postoperative complications. Prospective study is merited to optimize surveillance beyond the initial 30 days after ovarian cancer surgery.

Comparison of Rates and Outcomes of Readmission to Index vs Non-index Hospitals After Intravenous Thrombolysis in Acute Stroke Patients

National and regional systems of stroke care are designed to provide patients with widespread access to hospitals with thrombolytic capabilities. However, such triaging systems may contribute to fragmentation of care. This study aims to compare rates of readmission and outcomes between index and non-index hospitals for stroke patients following intravenous thrombolytic therapy (IVT). This study utilized a nationally representative sample of stroke patients with IVT from the Nationwide Readmissions Database from 2010 to 2014. Descriptive and regression analyses were performed for patient and hospital level factors that influenced 90-day readmissions and regression models were used to identify differences in mortality, complications, and repeat readmissions between patients readmitted to index (facility where IVT was administered) and non-index hospitals. In the study, 49415 stroke patients were treated with IVT, of whom 21.7% were readmitted within 90 days. Among readmissions, 79.4% of patients were readmitted to index hospitals and 20.6% to non-index hospitals. On multivariate logistic regression analysis, index hospital readmission was independently associated with lower frequency of second readmissions (non-index OR 1.09, 95%CI 1.07-1.11, p<0.0001) but not with increased mortality or major complications (p=ns). Approximately one-fifth of stroke patients treated with thrombolysis were readmitted within 90 days, one-fifth of whom were readmitted to non-index hospitals. Although readmission to index hospital was associated with lower frequency of subsequent readmissions, readmission to non-index hospital was not associated with increased mortality or major complications. This difference may be due to standardized algorithms, mature systems of care, and demanding metrics required of stroke centers.

Increased 30-day readmission rate after craniotomy for tumor resection at safety net hospitals in small metropolitan areas

PURPOSE

Unplanned readmission of post-operative brain tumor patients is often attributed to hospital and patient characteristics and is associated with higher mortality and cost. Previous studies demonstrate multiple patient outcome disparities in safety net hospitals (SNHs) when compared to non-SNHs. This study uses the Nationwide Readmissions Database (NRD) to determine if initial brain tumor resection at SNHs is associated with increased 30-day non-elective readmission rates.

METHODS

Patients with benign or malignant primary or metastatic brain tumor undergoing craniotomy for surgical resection were retrospectively identified in the NRD from 2010 to 2014. SNHs were defined as hospitals with Medicaid and uninsured patient burden in the top quartile. Descriptive and multivariate analyses employing survey-adjusted logistic regression evaluated patient and hospital level factors influencing 30-day readmissions.

RESULTS

During the study period, 83,367 patients met inclusion criteria. 44.7% of patients had a benign tumor, and 55.3% had a malignant tumor. Secondary CNS neoplasm (5.99%), post-operative infection (5.96%), and septicemia (4.26%) caused most readmissions within 30 days. Patients had increased unplanned readmission rates if they underwent craniotomy for tumor resection at a SNH in a small metropolitan area (OR 1.11, 95% CI 1.02-1.21, p = 0.01), but not at a SNH in a large metropolitan area (OR 0.99, 95% CI 0.93-1.05, p = 0.73).

CONCLUSION

This finding may reflect differences in access to care and disparities in neurosurgical resources between small and large metropolitan areas. Inequities in expertise and capacity are relevant as surgical volume was also related to readmission rates. Further studies may be warranted to address such disparities.

Fragmentation of postoperative care after surgical management of ovarian cancer at 30 days and 90 days

BACKGROUND

Fragmentation of care, wherein a patient is discharged from an index hospital and undergoes an unexpected readmission to a nonindex hospital, is associated with increased risk of adverse outcomes. Fragmentation has not been well-characterized in ovarian cancer.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to assess risk factors and outcomes that are associated with fragmentation of care among women who undergo surgical treatment of ovarian cancer.

STUDY DESIGN

The Nationwide Readmission Database was used to identify all-cause 30-day and 90-day postoperative readmissions after surgical management of ovarian cancer from 2010-2014. Postoperative fragmentation was defined as readmission to a hospital other than the index hospital of the initial surgery. Multivariable regression analyses were used to identify predictors of fragmentation in both 30-day and 90-day readmissions. Similarly, multivariable models were developed to determine the association between fragmentation and death among women who were readmitted.

RESULTS

A total of 10,445 patients (13.3%) were readmitted at 30 days, and 14,124 patients (18.0%) were readmitted at 90 days. Of these, there was a 20.8% and 25.7% rate of postoperative care fragmentation for 30-day and 90-day readmissions, respectively. Patient risk factors that were associated with fragmented postoperative care included Medicare insurance, lower income quartiles, and nonroutine discharge to facility. Hospital factors that were associated with decreased risk of fragmentation included operation at a metropolitan teaching hospital and performance of extended procedures. Cost and length of stay for the readmission were similar among those who had fragmented and nonfragmented readmissions at both 30 and 90 days. Although there was no association between death and fragmentation for patients who were readmitted within 30 days (odds ratio, 1.19; 95% confidence interval, 0.93-1.51), patients who had a fragmented readmission at 90 days were 22% more likely to die than those who were readmitted at 90 days to their index hospital (odds ratio, 1.22; 95% confidence interval, 1.00-1.49).

CONCLUSION

Fragmentation of care is common in women with ovarian cancer who require postoperative readmission. Fragmented postoperative care is associated with an increased risk of death among women who are readmitted within 90 days of surgery.

Thirty-Day Nonindex Readmissions and Clinical Outcomes After Cardiac Surgery

BACKGROUND

With increasing emphasis on readmissions as an important quality metric, there is an interest in regionalization of care to high-volume centers. As a result, care of readmitted cardiac surgery patients may be fragmented if readmission occurs at a nonindex hospital. This study characterizes the frequency, risk factors, and outcomes of nonindex hospital readmission after cardiac surgery.

METHODS

In this multicenter, population-based, nationally representative sample, we used weighted 2010-2015 National Readmission Database claims to identify all US adult patients who underwent 2 of the major cardiac surgeries, isolated coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) or isolated surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR), during their initial hospitalization. We examined characteristics, predictors, and outcomes after nonindex readmission.

RESULTS

Overall, 1,070,073 procedures were included (844,206 CABG and 225,866 SAVR). Readmission at 30 days was 12.8% for CABG and 14.5% for SAVR. Nonindex readmissions accounted for 23% and 26% at 30 days; these were primarily noncardiac in etiology. The proportion of nonindex readmissions did not change significantly from 2010 to 2015. For CABG and SAVR, in-hospital mortality (adjusted odds ratios of 1.26 and 1.37, respectively) and major complications (odds ratios of 1.17 and 1.25, respectively) were significantly higher during nonindex versus index readmission, even after adjusting for patient risk profile, case mix, and hospital characteristics. Older age, higher income, and increased comorbidity burden were all independent predictors of nonindex readmission.

CONCLUSIONS

A considerable proportion of patients readmitted after cardiac surgery are readmitted to nonindex hospitals. This fragmentation of care may account for worse outcomes associated with nonindex readmissions in this complex population.