30-d Readmission Research Articles

Ambulation on Postoperative Day #0 Is Associated With Decreased Morbidity and Adverse Events After Elective Lumbar Spine Surgery: Analysis From the Michigan Spine Surgery Improvement Collaborative (MSSIC).

While consistently recommended, the significance of early ambulation after surgery has not been definitively studied. To identify the relationship between ambulation on the day of surgery (postoperative day (POD)#0) and 90-d adverse events after lumbar surgery. The Michigan Spine Surgery Improvement Collaborative (MSSIC) is a prospective multicenter registry of spine surgery patients. As part of routine postoperative care, patients either ambulated on POD#0 or did not. The 90-d adverse events of length of stay (LOS), urinary retention (UR), urinary tract infection (UTI), ileus, readmission, surgical site infection (SSI), pulmonary embolism/deep vein thrombosis (PE/DVT), and disposition to a rehab facility were measured. A total of 23 295 lumbar surgery patients were analyzed. POD#0 ambulation was associated with decreased LOS (relative LOS 0.83, P<.001), rehab discharge (odds ratio [OR] 0.52, P<.001), 30-d (OR 0.85, P=.044) and 90-d (OR 0.86, P=.014) readmission, UR (OR 0.73, P=10), UTI (OR 73, P=.001), and ileus (OR 0.52, P<.001) for all patients. Significant improvements in LOS, rehab discharge, readmission, UR, UTI, and ileus were observed in subset analysis of single-level decompressions (4698 pts), multilevel decompressions (4079 pts), single-level fusions (4846 pts), and multilevel fusions (4413 pts). No change in rate of SSI or DVT/PE was observed for patients who ambulated POD#0. POD#0 ambulation is associated with a significantly decreased risk for several key adverse events after lumbar spine surgery. Decreasing the incidence of these outcomes would be associated with significant cost savings. As ambulation POD#0 is a modifiable factor in any patient's postoperative care following most spine surgery, it should be encouraged and incorporated into spine-related, enhanced-recovery-after-surgery programs.

Trends in the utilization and perioperative outcomes of primary robotic bariatric surgery from 2015 to 2018: a study of 46,764 patients from the MBSAQIP data registry.

Utilization of robotic surgery has increased over time. Outcomes in bariatric surgery have been variable. This study used the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation Quality and Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) dataset to compare nationwide trends in utilization and outcomes improvement for robotic and laparoscopic bariatric surgery over a four-year period. We identified all adult patients who underwent robotic or laparoscopic primary sleeve gastrectomy (SG) or Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) from 2015 to 2018. Those with previous bariatric/foregut surgery or open conversion were excluded. Trends in clinical outcomes of different surgery types over years were compared through multivariable regression models. Subgroup analysis was performed for patients in 2018, comparing outcomes among different surgery types. A total of 571,417 patients underwent bariatric surgery, of which 46,764 (8.2%) were performed robotically. Utilization of the robotic platform increased annually, from 6.7% in 2015 to 10.3% in 2018 (p < 0.0001). The majority of patients underwent SG (n = 33,891, 72.5%). Perioperative outcomes improved over time for both robotic and laparoscopic procedures. Improvement was more pronounced in the robotic cohort for extended length of stay (OR 0.76 vs 0.8, p < 0.0001) and operative time (OR 0.98 vs 0.99, p < 0.0001). In the 2018 subgroup, multivariable analysis found laparoscopic RYGB was associated with increased bleeding (OR 2.220, p = 0.0004), overall complications (OR 1.356, p = 0.0013), and extended LOS (OR 1.178, p < 0.0001) compared to robotic surgery. Laparoscopic SG was associated with decreased anastomotic/staple line leak (OR 0.718, p = 0.0321), 30-d readmission (OR 0.826, p = 0.0005), 30-d reintervention (OR 0.723, p = 0.0014), overall event (OR 0.862, p = 0.0009), and extended LOS (OR 0.950, p = 0.0113). Across the board, laparoscopic surgery was associated with decreased operative time (Adjusted Ratio = 0.704, p < 0.0001). Robotic utilization for bariatric surgery is increasing and outcomes continue to improve with time. There is a differential impact of the robotic approach on SG and RYGB, which requires further assessment.

Comparison of open and closed hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy: Results from the United States hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy collaborative.

BACKGROUNDCytoreductive surgery (CRS) with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) for peritoneal carcinomatosis can be performed in two ways: Open or closed abdominal technique.AIMTo evaluate the impact of HIPEC method on post-operative and long-term survival outcomes.METHODSPatients undergoing CRS with HIPEC from 2000-2017 were identified in the United States HIPEC collaborative database. Post-operative, recurrence, and overall survival outcomes were compared between those who received open vs closed HIPEC.RESULTSOf the 1812 patients undergoing curative-intent CRS and HIPEC, 372 (21%) patients underwent open HIPEC and 1440 (79%) underwent closed HIPEC. There was no difference in re-operation or severe complications between the two groups. Closed HIPEC had higher rates of 90-d readmission while open HIPEC had a higher rate of 90-d mortalities. On multi-variable analysis, closed HIPEC technique was not a significant predictor for overall survival (hazards ratio: 0.75, 95% confidence interval: 0.51-1.10, P = 0.14) or recurrence-free survival (hazards ratio: 1.39, 95% confidence interval: 1.00-1.93, P = 0.05) in the entire cohort. These findings remained consistent in the appendiceal and the colorectal subgroups.CONCLUSIONIn this multi-institutional analysis, the HIPEC method was not independently associated with relevant post-operative or long-term outcomes. HIPEC technique may be left to the discretion of the operating surgeon.

COPD Overdiagnosis and Its Effect on 30-Day Hospital Readmission Rates.

Although specific guidelines exist for diagnosing COPD on the basis of spirometry testing data (FEV1/FVC < 0.70 or above the lower limit of normal), the literature suggests that overdiagnosis is common. Whether overdiagnosis increases 30-d readmission rates has not yet been explored. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of COPD overdiagnosis and its effect on 30-d hospital readmission rates in our institution. We retrospectively identified all subjects who were coded with a COPD hospital discharge in 2018 at Cleveland Clinic main campus and had spirometry data available, including FEV1 and FVC. FEV1/FVC was calculated and compared with the predicted lower limit of normal values. Hospital discharge diagnosis and 30-d hospital readmission data were captured along with comorbidities and other demographics. In 2018, there were 424 hospital discharges with a COPD diagnosis with spirometry testing available. Of these subjects, 124 (29%) were overdiagnosed in the lower limit of normal group and 99 (23.3%) were in the ≥ 0.70 group. One hundred subjects (23.6%) had a 30-d hospital readmission. Of these subjects, 35 had FEV1/FVC that was greater than their predicted lower limit of normal on spirometry. Of the 324 subjects who were not readmitted within 30 d, 89 (27.5%) had FEV1/FVC greater than the lower limit of normal. If the 35 readmitted subjects had not been coded with COPD, the 30-d readmission rate would have decreased significantly from 23.6% to 16.7% (100 of 424 vs 65 of 389, P = .01). Even if all of the 124 subjects who had pulmonary function test data greater than the lower limit of normal had not been counted, the readmission rate would still have decreased from 23.6% to 21.7%, but this was not significant (from 100 of 424 to 65 of 300, P = .3). COPD was overdiagnosed in our cohort of subjects; this was true whether the FEV1/FVC < 0.70 standard or the lower limit of normal standard was used. Furthermore, this overdiagnosis artificially inflated the 30-d readmission rate. These results illustrate the caution providers should use when making a COPD diagnosis.

Thirty-Day Hospital Readmission and Surgical Complication Rates for Shunting in Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus: A Large National Database Analysis.

Research on age-related complications secondary to shunts in normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) is primarily limited to single-center studies and small cohorts. To determine the rates of hospital readmission and surgical complications, and factors that predict them, following shunt surgery for NPH in a large healthcare network. Surgical procedures, complications, and readmissions for adults undergoing ventricular shunting for NPH were determined using de-identified claims from a privately insured United States healthcare network in years 2007-2014. Univariate and multivariate statistics were used to determine factors that predict poor surgical outcomes. The primary outcome variable was surgical complications or readmissions (composite variable for any major perioperative complication or 30-d readmission). The 30-d readmission rate for 974 patients with NPH who underwent ventricular shunting was 7.29%; the most common reasons for readmission were shunt-related complications, infection, hemorrhage, altered mental status, and cardiopulmonary and musculoskeletal problems. The perioperative complication rate was 21.15%, including intraparenchymal hemorrhage (5.85%) and extra-axial (subdural or epidural) hematoma (5.54%). The overall rate of having a surgical complication or 30-d readmission was 25.15%. Age did not predict surgical complication or 30-d readmission. Preoperative comorbidities independently associated with poor outcome were myocardial infarction within 1 yr (OR=3.984, 95% CI=1.105-14.368); existing cerebrovascular disease (odds ratio [OR]=2.206, 95% CI=1.544-3.152); and moderate/severe renal disease (OR=2.000, 95% CI=1.155-3.464). The rate of complications or readmission within 30 d of ventricular shunting for NPH is 25.15%. Preoperative comorbidities of myocardial infarction within 1 yr, cerebrovascular disease, and moderate/severe renal disease are independent risk factors for poor outcome.

Narrow- versus Broad-Spectrum Antibiotics for Simple Acute Appendicitis Treated by Appendectomy: A Post Hoc Analysis of EAST MUSTANG Study

BackgroundWe sought to compare the effectiveness of narrow- versus broad-spectrum antibiotics (abx) in preventing infectious complications in adults with acute appendicitis treated with appendectomy. MethodsIn this post hoc analysis of a prospective multicenter observational study of appendicitis in adults (≥18 y) conducted from January 2017 to June 2018, we included only patients with simple appendicitis. Subjects were grouped based on receipt of broad-spectrum or narrow-spectrum abx before and/or after appendectomy. Outcomes compared were surgical site infection, intra-abdominal abscess, secondary interventions (percutaneous drainage or operation), emergency department (ED) visits, 30-d readmission, and hospital length of stay. ResultsA total of 2336 subjects were analyzed. In comparing narrow (n = 778) versus broad (n = 1558) groups, there were no differences in male sex (53% versus 54%, P = 0.704), white blood cell (13.0 ± 3.9 versus 13.4 ± 4.5, P = 0.05), Alvarado score (6 [5-7] versus 6 [5-7], P = 0.25), or Charlson comorbidity index (0 [0-1] versus 0 [0-1], P = 0.09). A total of 688 (29%) received postoperative abx, [184 (24%) narrow and 504 (32%) broad, P < 0.001] for a median 5 [2-7] d [42 (23%) narrow and 235 (47%) broad, P < 0.001]. There were no significant differences between narrow and broad groups in surgical site infection, intra-abdominal abscess, secondary interventions, ED visits, or hospital readmissions. ConclusionsSignificant practice variation in duration and spectrum of antibiotic adjunct for surgical treatment of simple acute appendicitis treatment is evident, and broad-spectrum abx did not offer clinical advantages over narrow-spectrum abx. Restriction of antibiotic spectrum should be considered, although randomized trials are required to overcome selection bias.

Rates and Predictors of Perioperative Complications in Cytoreductive Nephrectomy: Analysis of the Registry for Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma

BackgroundCytoreductive nephrectomy (CN) plays an important role in the treatment of a subgroup of metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC) patients. ObjectiveWe aimed to evaluate morbidity associated with this procedure and identify potential predictors thereof to aid patient selection for this procedure and potentially improve patient outcomes. Design, setting, and participantsData from 736 mRCC patients undergoing CN at 14 institutions were retrospectively recorded in the Registry for Metastatic RCC (REMARCC). Outcome measurements and statistical analysisLogistic regression analysis was used to identify predictors for intraoperative, any-grade (AGCs), low-grade, and high-grade (HGCs) postoperative complications (according to the Clavien-Dindo classification) as well as 30-d readmission rates. Results and limitationsIntraoperative complications were observed in 69 patients (10.9%). Thrombectomy (odds ratio [OR] 1.38, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.08–1.75, p = 0.009) and adjacent organ removal (OR 2.7, 95% CI 1.38–5.30) were significant predictors of intraoperative complications at multivariable analysis. Two hundred seventeen patients (29.5%) encountered AGCs, while 45 (6.1%) encountered an HGC, of whom 10 (1.4%) died. Twenty-four (3.3%) patients had multiple postoperative complications. Estimated blood loss (EBL; OR 1.49, 95% CI 1.08–2.05, p = 0.01) was a significant predictor of AGCs at multivariable analysis. CN case load (OR 0.13, 95% CI 0.03–0.59, p = 0.009) and EBL (OR 2.93, 95% CI 1.20–7.15, p = 0.02) were significant predictors solely for HGCs at multivariable analysis. Forty-one patients (11.5%) were readmitted within 30 d of surgery. No significant predictors were identified. Results were confirmed in a subanalysis focusing solely on patients treated in the contemporary targeted therapy era. ConclusionsMorbidity associated with CN is not negligible. Predictors of high-grade postoperative morbidity are predominantly indicators of complex surgery. EBL is a strong predictor of postoperative complications. CN case load correlates with lower high-grade morbidity and highlights the benefit of centralization of complex surgery. However, risks and benefits should be balanced when considering CN in mRCC patients. Patient summaryWe studied patients with metastatic renal cancer to evaluate the outcomes associated with the surgical removal of the primary kidney tumor. We found that this procedure is often complex and adverse events are not uncommon. High intraoperative blood loss and a small number of cases performed at the treating center are associated with a higher rate of postoperative complications.

Day case vs inpatient total shoulder arthroplasty: A retrospective cohort study and cost-effectiveness analysis.

Day case total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) is a novel approach, not widely practiced in Europe. We conducted a retrospective cohort study of patients comparing elective day case and inpatient TSAs in our United Kingdom centre. To evaluate the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of day case TSA compared to standard inpatient total shoulder arthroplasty. All patients undergoing TSA between January 2017 and July 2018 were included. Outcome measures were: Change in abduction and extension 3 mo postoperatively; 30-d postoperative adverse events and re-admissions in day case and inpatient groups. We also conducted an economic evaluation of outpatient arthroplasty. Multivariate linear and logistic regression were used to adjust for demographic and operative covariates. Fifty nine patients were included, 18 d cases and 41 inpatients. There were no adverse events or re-admissions at 30 d postoperatively in either group. There were no significant differences in adjusted flexion (mean difference 16.4, 95%CI: 17.6-50.5, P = 0.337) or abduction (mean difference: 13.2, 95%CI: 18.4-44.9, P = 0.405) postoperatively between groups. Median savings with outpatient arthroplasty were £529 (interquartile range: 247.33-789, P < 0.0001). Day case TSA is a safe, effective procedure, with significant cost benefit. Wider use may be warranted in the United Kingdom and beyond, with potential for significant cost savings and improved efficiency.

Composite score for prediction of 30‐day orthopedic surgery outcomes

The LACE+ (Length of stay, Acuity of admission, Charlson Comorbidity Index score, and Emergency department visits in the past 6 months) risk-prediction tool has never been tested in an orthopedic surgery population. LACE+ may help physicians more effectively identify and support high-risk orthopedics patients after hospital discharge. LACE+ scores were retrospectively calculated for all consecutive orthopedic surgery patients (n = 18 893) at a multi-center health system over 3 years (2016-2018). Coarsened exact matching was employed to create "matched" study groups with different LACE+ score quartiles (Q1, Q2, Q3, Q4). Outcomes were compared between quartiles. In all, 1444 patients were matched between Q1 and Q4 (n = 2888); 2079 patients between Q2 and Q4 (n = 4158); 3032 patients between Q3 and Q4 (n = 6064). Higher LACE+ scores significantly predicted 30D readmission risk for Q4 vs Q1 and Q4 vs Q3 (P < .001). Larger LACE+ scores also significantly predicted 30D risk of ED visits for Q4 vs Q1, Q4 vs Q2, and Q4 vs Q3 (P < .001). Increased LACE+ score also significantly predicted 30D risk of reoperation for Q4 vs Q1 (P = .018), Q4 vs Q2 (P < .001), and Q4 vs Q3 (P < .001).

Use of Low Dose Dopamine in Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction Patients with Right Ventricular Dysfunction

Right ventricular dysfunction (RVD) is associated with poor outcomes in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) and serves as an important therapeutic target. Though treatment with low-dose dopamine (DA) has not shown benefit decompensated HF, we sought to evaluate the effect of DA on HFpEF patients with RVD (HFpEF-RVD), which is currently is unknown. We analyzed subjects enrolled in the Randomized Evaluation of Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction Patients With Acute Heart Failure and Dopamine trial (NCT01901809) for the presence of RVD and compared clinical outcomes based on treatment with DA. RVD was defined by ≥1 trait on echocardiography: tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion <1.7 cm, fractional area change <35%, tissue Doppler imaging velocity (S') <10 cm/s, or semi-quantitative visual assessment of RVD. Bivariable analysis was performed using median tests for continuous variables and chi-square tests for categorical variables. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to assess for predictors of RVD in our cohort. RVD was present in 29% (24 of 82) of our cohort. HFpEF-RVD patients had lower BMI (34 kg/m2 [14.6] v 42 kg/m2 [14.2], p=0.01), higher Cr (1.4 mg/dL [0.6] v 1.2 mg/dL [1], p=0.01), and higher NT-proBNP (2327 pg/mL [3260] v 1425 pg/mL [2370], p=0.002) compared to HFpEF-no RVD. BMI was inversely associated with HFpEF-RVD after adjustment for age, sex, and race (p=0.02). HFpEF-RVD had increased 30-D hospital readmission (35% v 19%, p=0.12) and worse survival at 1 year (70% v 88%, p=0.06), though not statistically significant. DA had no significant effect on renal function in HFpEF-RVD; however, the presence of RVD positively modified the effect of DA on length of stay (LOS) (p=0.01, Figure). HFpEF-RVD reflects a sicker subgroup of HFpEF patients. In hospitalized HFpEF, low-dose DA was associated with shorter LOS in HFpEF-RVD. Future studies should be performed to find useful therapies in HFpEF-RVD.

Clinical Outcomes Following Surgical Ligation of Cerebrospinal Fluid-Venous Fistula in Patients With Spontaneous Intracranial Hypotension: A Prospective Case Series.

Cerebrospinal fluid-venous fistula (CVF) is a recently described cause of spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH). Surgical ligation of CVF has been reported, but clinical outcomes are not well described. To determine the clinical efficacy of surgical ligation for treatment of CVF. Outcomes metrics were collected in this prospective, single-arm, cross-sectional investigation. Inclusion criteria were as follows: diagnosis of SIH, demonstration of CVF on myelography, and surgical treatment of CVF. Pre- and postoperative headache severity was assessed with the Headache Impact Test (HIT-6), a validated headache scale ranging from 36 (asymptomatic) to 78 (most severe). Patient satisfaction with treatment was measured with Patient Global Impression of Change (PGIC). Twenty subjects were enrolled, with mean postoperative follow-up at 16.0±9.7 mo. All CVFs were located in the thoracic region (between T4 and T12). Pretreatment headache severity was high (mean HIT-6 scores 65±6). Surgical treatment resulted in marked improvement in headache severity (mean HIT-6 change of -21±-9, mean postoperative HIT-6 of 44±8). Of subjects with baseline headache scores in the most severe category, 83% showed a major improvement in severity (transition to the lowest 2 severity categories) after surgery. All subjects (100%) reported clinically significant levels of satisfaction with treatment (PGIC score 6 or 7); 90% reported the highest level of satisfaction. There were no short- or long-term complications or 30-d readmissions. Surgical ligation is highly effective for the treatment of SIH due to CVF. Larger controlled trials with longer follow-up period are indicated to better assess its long-term efficacy and safety profile.

Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion in the Outpatient Ambulatory Surgery Setting: Analysis of 2000 Consecutive Cases.

In an effort to improve efficiency of care, ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) have emerged as lower-cost options. Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) is one of the most prevalent spine surgeries performed and rarely requires overnight stays in the hospital, supporting its migration to the ASC. Recent analyses have called into question the safety of outpatient ACDF, potentially slowing its adoption. ASC-ACDF studies have largely been limited to small series, precluding an accurate assessment of safety. To analyze 2000 ASC-ACDF cases, describe patient selection and perioperative protocol, and report associated safety profile. A total of 2000 patients who underwent 1 to 3 level ACDF in a single ASC from 2006 to 2018 were included in this retrospective analysis. Patients were observed in a 4-h postanesthesia care unit (PACU) with a multimodal pain management regiment. Data were collected on patient demographics, comorbidities, operative details, and 30- and 90-d morbidity. Of the 2000 patients, 10 (0.5%) required transfer to an inpatient setting within the 4-h observation. Reasons for transfer included hematoma (2), pain control (2), cerebrospinal fluid leak (1), and medical complications (5). Six patients (0.3%) underwent reoperation within 30 d. All-cause 30-d readmission was 1.9%. An analysis of 2000 ACDF patients in an ASC setting with a standardized perioperative protocol demonstrates that surgical complications occur at a low rate (<1%) and can be appropriately diagnosed and managed in a 4-h PACU. In an effort to decrease healthcare costs, surgeons can safely perform ACDFs in an ASC utilizing patient selection criteria and perioperative management protocols similar to those reported here.

The Risk Assessment and Prediction Tool (RAPT) for Discharge Planning in a Posterior Lumbar Fusion Population.

As the use of bundled care payment models has become widespread in neurosurgery, there is a distinct need for improved preoperative predictive tools to identify patients who will not benefit from prolonged hospitalization, thus facilitating earlier discharge to rehabilitation or nursing facilities. To validate the use of Risk Assessment and Prediction Tool (RAPT) in patients undergoing posterior lumbar fusion for predicting discharge disposition. Patients undergoing elective posterior lumbar fusion from June 2016 to February 2017 were prospectively enrolled. RAPT scores and discharge outcomes were recorded for patients aged 50 yr or more (n=432). Logistic regression analysis was used to assess the ability of RAPT score to predict discharge disposition. Multivariate regression was performed in a backwards stepwise logistic fashion to create a binomial model. Escalating RAPT score predicts disposition to home (P<.0001). Every unit increase in RAPT score increases the chance of home disposition by 55.8% and 38.6% than rehab and skilled nursing facility, respectively. Further, RAPT score was significant in predicting length of stay (P=.0239), total surgical cost (P=.0007), and 30-d readmission (P<.0001). Amongst RAPT score subcomponents, walk, gait, and postoperative care availability were all predictive of disposition location (P<.0001) for both models. In a generalized multiple logistic regression model, the 3 top predictive factors for disposition were the RAPT score, length of stay, and age (P<.0001, P<.0001 and P=.0001, respectively). Preoperative RAPT score is a highly predictive tool in lumbar fusion patients for discharge disposition.

Abstract TP300: Implementation of Stroke Pathways to Reduce Length of Stay, Cost, Readmissions, and Mortality

Introduction: Acute stroke is a major contributor to healthcare costs. In 2012, estimated direct costs associated with stroke was $71B, which is projected to double to $184B by 2030. As healthcare evolves and reimbursements decrease, cost control in disease specific populations is critical. In November 2017, length of stay (LOS) peaked at 5.78 days, as did variable and total cost/case (Table). In fiscal year 2017 the 30-d readmission rate was 9% and the mortality rate was 12%. Compliance with stroke admission order sets was at 55%. Methods: A multidisciplinary committee was formed in February 2017 to develop standardized, evidence-based clinical pathways for three populations: Ischemic stroke (IS) treated with IV tPA, TIA/IS without IV tPA, and intracerebral hemorrhage. The team met biweekly to standardize clinical pathways, decrease time to follow-up imaging, focus on physician order set utilization, and control costs. A comprehensive education program for all clinical staff was completed; official implementation of the pathways was in November 2017. A stroke financials team meets monthly to continue to look at opportunities and transitions of care. We reviewed a retrospective financial report of all in-hospital cases coded as MS-DRG 61-69 from 12/2017 through 7/31/2019 and compared it the 11/2017 report. Results: A total of 83 cases were available for 12/2017 and 2192 for 1/2018 through 7/2019. There was a reduced LOS by 26% (4.34 days), reduced variable cost/case by 24% ($5,958), reduced total cost/case by 23% ($13,790), reduced the 30-d readmission rate to 6%, and reduced the mortality rate to 4%. Case mix index was 12% higher at 1.3272 (vs. 1.2055 previously). Order set compliance improved to 94% (Table). A total cost saving dollar realization of $4.5 million. Discussion: Standardization of stroke clinical pathways led to improved order set compliance, almost 1/4 reduction in variable and total costs per case, shortened LOS, and reduced mortality and readmission rates.

The LACE + index as a predictor of 90-day urologic surgery outcomes.

This study assessed the ability of the LACE + [Length of stay, Acuity of admission, Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) score, and Emergency department visits in the past 6months] index to predict adverse outcomes after urologic surgery. LACE + scores were retrospectively calculated for all consecutive patients (n = 9824) who received urologic surgery at one multi-center health system over 2 years (2016-2018). Coarsened exact matching was employed to sort patient data before analysis; matching criteria included duration of surgery, BMI, and race among others. Outcomes including unplanned hospital readmission, emergency room visits, and reoperation were compared for patients with different LACE + quartiles. 722 patients were matched between Q1 and Q4; 1120 patients were matched between Q2 and Q4; 2550 patients were matched between Q3 and Q4. Higher LACE + score significantly predicted readmission within 90days (90D) of discharge for Q1 vs Q4 and Q2 vs Q4. Increased LACE + score also significantly predicted 90D emergency room visits for Q1 vs Q4, Q2 vs Q4, and Q3 vs Q4. LACE + score was also significantly predictive of 90D reoperation for Q1 vs Q4. LACE + score did not predict 90D reoperation for Q2 vs Q4 or Q3 vs Q4 or 90D readmission for Q3 vs. Q4. These results suggest that LACE + may be a suitable prediction model for important patient outcomes after urologic surgery.

Endoscopic advances in the management of non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding: A review.

Upper gastrointestinal bleeding is defined as the bleeding originating from the esophagus to the ligament of Treitz and further classified into variceal and non-variceal gastrointestinal bleeding. Non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding remains a common clinical problem globally. It is associated with high mortality, morbidity, and cost of the health care system. Despite the continuous improvement of therapeutic endoscopy, the 30-d readmission rate secondary to rebleeding and associated mortality is an ongoing issue. Available Food and Drug Administration approved traditional or conventional therapeutic endoscopic modalities includes epinephrine injection, argon plasma coagulation, heater probe, and placement of through the scope clip, which can be used alone or in combination to decrease the risk of rebleeding. Recently, more attention has been paid to the novel advanced endoscopic devices for primary treatment of the bleeding lesion and as a secondary measure when conventional therapies fail to achieve hemostasis. This review highlights emerging endoscopic modalities used in the management of non-variceal upper gastrointestinal related bleeding such as over-the-scope clip, Coagrasper, hemostatic sprays, radiofrequency ablation, cryotherapy, endoscopic suturing devices, and endoscopic ultrasound-guided angiotherapy. In this review article, we will also discuss the technical aspects of the common procedures, outcomes in terms of safety and efficacy, and their advantages and limitations in the setting of non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding.

Neural Monitoring for Robotic Abdominal Wall Reconstruction.

Introduction:Positioning-related neural injuries are an inherent risk in surgery, particularly in robotic-assisted abdominal wall reconstruction because of unique patient positioning and increased operative times. The implementation of intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring should be considered in such cases.Methods:This was a two-armed study with one prospective intervention group and one retrospective control group. All patients underwent robotic abdominal wall reconstruction at an academic center. The prospective arm underwent robotic reconstruction from January through July 2019. The retrospective database reviewed patients who underwent the same procedure from August 2015 through July 2018. Factors assessed included: demographics (age, gender, body mass index, comorbidities), surgical details (American Society of Anesthesiologists class, procedure, operative time, positioning), outcomes (length of stay, 30-d readmission, reoperation), and any new-onset intraoperative or postoperative neuropathy. Patients were seen in the clinic postoperatively at weeks 1 and 6.Results:Ten patients were included in the prospective arm. All received intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring using somatosensory evoked potentials. They were compared with 47 patients in the retrospective arm who underwent surgery without intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring. One position-related neural response from baseline was detected intraoperatively in the prospective arm; however, there were no peripheral neurological symptoms present postoperatively. Two patients in the control group developed transient peripheral neuropathies that resolved within 6 weeks. Demographics, surgical procedures, and length of surgery were similar in both groups. The prospective group had a higher rate of preoperative neuropathy and intraoperative use of vasopressors.Conclusion:Incorporation of neurophysiological monitoring in robotic surgery is feasible and may lead to the prevention and reduction in positioning-related injuries.

Validation of the LACE Index (Length of Stay, Acuity of Admission, Comorbidities, Emergency Department Use) in the Adult Neurosurgical Patient Population.

The LACE index (Length of stay, Acuity of admission, Comorbidities, Emergency department use) quantifies the risk of mortality or unplanned readmission within 30 d after hospital discharge. The index was validated originally in a large, general population and, subsequently, in several specialties, not including neurosurgery. To determine if the LACE index accurately predicts mortality and unplanned readmission of neurosurgery patients within 30 d of discharge. We performed a retrospective, cohort study of consecutive neurosurgical procedures between January 1 and September 29, 2017 at our institution. The LACE index and other clinical data were abstracted. Data analysis included univariate and multivariate logistic regressions. Of the 1,054 procedures on 974 patients, 52.7% were performed on females. Mean age was 54.2±15.4 yr. At time of discharge, the LACE index was low (1-4) in 58.3% of patients, moderate (5-9) in 32.4%, and high (10-19) in 9.3%. Rates of readmission and mortality within 30 d were 7.0, 11.4, and 14.3% in the low-, moderate-, and high-risk groups, respectively. Moderate-risk (odds ratio [OR] 1.62, 95% CI 1.02-2.56, P=.04) and high-risk LACE indexes (OR 2.20, 95% CI 1.15-4.19, P=.02) were associated with greater odds of readmission or mortality, adjusting for all variables. Additionally, longer operations (OR 1.11, 95% CI 1.02-1.21, P=.02) had greater odds of readmission. Specificity of the high-risk score to predict 30-d readmission or mortality was 91.2%. A moderate- or high-risk LACE index can be applied to neurosurgical populations to predict 30-d readmission and mortality. Longer operations are potential predictors of readmission or mortality.

Association of Overlapping Neurosurgery With Patient Outcomes at a Large Academic Medical Center.

Limited data exist on the safety of overlapping surgery, a practice that has recently received widespread attention. To examine the association of overlapping neurosurgery with patient outcomes. A total of 3038 routinely scheduled, elective neurosurgical procedures were retrospectively reviewed at a single, multihospital academic medical center. Procedures were categorized into any overlap or no overlap and further subcategorized into beginning overlap (first 50% of procedure only), end overlap (last 50% of procedure only), and middle overlap (overlap at the midpoint). A total of 1030 (33.9%) procedures had any overlap, whereas 278 (9.2%) had beginning overlap, 190 (6.3%) had end overlap, and 476 (15.7%) had middle overlap. Compared with no overlap patients, patients with any overlap had lower American Society of Anesthesiologists scores (P=.0018), less prior surgery (P<.0001), and less prior neurosurgery (P<.0001), though they tended to be older (P<.0001) and more likely in-patients (P=.0038). Any-overlap patients had decreased overall mortality (2.8% vs 4.5%; P=.025), 30- to 90-d readmission rate (3.1% vs 5.5%; P=.0034), 30- to 90-d reoperation rate (1.0% vs 2.0%; P=.03), 30- to 90-d emergency room (ER) visit rate (2.1% vs 3.7%; P=.018), and future surgery on index admission (2.8% vs 7.3%; P<.0001). Multiple regression analysis validated noninferior outcomes for overlapping surgery, except for the association of increased future surgery on index admission with middle overlap (odds ratio 3.99; 95% confidence interval [1.91, 8.33]). Overlapping neurosurgery is associated with noninferior patient outcomes that may be driven by surgeon selection of healthier patients, regardless of specific overlap timing.

Cytoreductive Surgery and HIPEC in an Enhanced Recovery After Surgery Program: A Feasibility Study

BackgroundCytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) have historically been associated with high morbidity given the physiologic insult of an extensive operation. Enhanced Recovery after Surgery (ERAS) pathways have been successful in improving postoperative outcomes for many procedures but have not been well studied in these cases. We examined the feasibility and effect of ERAS pathway implementation for patients undergoing CRS/HIPEC. Materials and methodsPatients with peritoneal carcinomatosis who underwent CRS/HIPEC between October 2015 to September 2018 were identified. Patient characteristics, disease pathology, and perioperative outcome data were obtained. Primary outcomes were hospital length of stay (LOS), 30-d readmissions, renal dysfunction, and complications. ResultsOf the 31 patients who were included, 11 (35.5%) patients underwent CRS/HIPEC prior to the implementation of the ERAS pathway, and 20 (64.5%) patients underwent CRS/HIPEC according to the ERAS guidelines. There were no significant differences in the baseline clinical or pathologic characteristics between groups. There was a significant decrease in LOS with ERAS pathway management from 9 d to 6 d (P = 0.002). No patients from either cohort experienced acute kidney injury. There was no significant difference in 30-d readmission rates or complications. ConclusionsIn this feasibility study, ERAS pathway utilization significantly decreased postoperative LOS for patients undergoing CRS/HIPEC, without evidence of increased complications or readmissions. ERAS programs should be considered for integration into future CRS/HIPEC protocols.