30-day Emergency Department Visits Research Articles

Machine Learning For Risk Prediction After Heart Failure Emergency Department Visit or Hospital Admission Using Administrative Health Data.

Patients visiting the emergency department (ED) or hospitalized for heart failure (HF) are at increased risk for subsequent adverse outcomes, however effective risk stratification remains challenging. We utilized a machine-learning (ML)-based approach to identify HF patients at risk of adverse outcomes after an ED visit or hospitalization using a large regional administrative healthcare data system. Patients visiting the ED or hospitalized with HF between 2002-2016 in Alberta, Canada were included. Outcomes of interest were 30-day and 1-year HF-related ED visits, HF hospital readmission or all-cause mortality. We applied a feature extraction method using deep feature synthesis from multiple sources of health data and compared performance of a gradient boosting algorithm (CatBoost) with logistic regression modelling. The area under receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC-ROC) was used to assess model performance. We included 50,630 patients with 93,552 HF ED visits/hospitalizations. At 30-day follow-up in the holdout validation cohort, the AUC-ROC for the combined endpoint of HF ED visit, HF hospital readmission or death for the Catboost and logistic regression models was 74.16 (73.18-75.11) versus 62.25 (61.25-63.18), respectively. At 1-year follow-up corresponding values were 76.80 (76.1-77.47) versus 69.52 (68.77-70.26), respectively. AUC-ROC values for the endpoint of all-cause death alone at 30-days and 1-year follow-up were 83.21 (81.83-84.41) versus 69.53 (67.98-71.18), and 85.73 (85.14-86.29) versus 69.40 (68.57-70.26), for the CatBoost and logistic regression models, respectively. ML-based modelling with deep feature synthesis provided superior risk stratification for HF patients at 30-days and 1-year follow-up after an ED visit or hospitalization using data from a large administrative regional healthcare system.

The association between fracture and short-term adverse health outcomes among children with cerebral palsy

BackgroundChildren with cerebral palsy (CP) have a high risk of fracture; yet, little is known about their post-fracture health outcomes. A fracture is an unplanned event in contrast to surgeries or procedures where there is a pre-operative period to optimize body composition and health and planned post-operative follow-up care. Fractures may be associated with significant outcomes due to the unplannable nature and reactionary care. The objective of this study was to determine if fractures were associated with an increased rate of short-term adverse health outcomes among children with CP, and if these associations were dependent on age. MethodsThis retrospective cohort study used commercial claims from 01/01/2001–12/31/2018. The primary cohort was children 2–18 years old with CP and an incident fracture (CP + Fx). Comparison cohorts were propensity score matched 1:1 to CP + Fx on demographic and health-related indicators: CP without fractures (CPw/oFx); without CP with (w/oCP + Fx) or without (w/oCPw/oFx) a fracture. The incidence rate (IR) and IR ratios (IRR) of 30-day and 31–90-day pneumonia and 90-day emergency department (ED) visit were estimated. Cox regression tested for effect modification by age and sex. ResultsThe CP + Fx cohort (n = 1670) had higher IRs of 30-day pneumonia (IRR range, 1.53–4.54) and 90-day ED visit (IRR range, 1.45–2.37) (all P < 0.05), and higher IRs of 31–90-day pneumonia but this did not reach statistical significance (IRR, 1.41 to 2.32, all P > 0.05). Notably, there was evidence of effect modification by age. The rate of 30-day pneumonia became more problematic for CP + Fx with older age relative to comparison cohorts and for 90-day ED visit compared to CPw/oFx. The rate of 90-day ED visit for CP + Fx was more problematic at younger ages compared to w/oCP + Fx. ConclusionsFractures among children with CP were associated with an increased rate of short-term pneumonia and ED visit, which was more problematic with older age.

General versus disease-specific medical oncology consults and impact on inpatient quality of care.

321 Background: Hospitalization is a time of crisis for patients and caregivers. Subspeciality oncologists may bring more timely, effective support compared to a general oncologists. Attendings, fellows and advance practice providers (APPs) may benefit from focused expertise for consultative care and education. Methods: Subspeciality oncology consults launched July 2023, with consults staffed by 4 oncologists from: 1) breast 2) head and neck/thoracic 3) gastrointestinal and 4) genitourinary/melanoma. Previously, 3 oncologists staffed all patients, regardless of primary malignancy. Throughout the study period, oncologists were supported by at least 1 fellow or 1 APP. Using Epic and Tableau, we collected LOS, time to consult (TTC), ICU rate, hospice referral rate, 30-day readmission, 30-day emergency department (ED) visit data. Using Qualtrics, we collected fellow, attending, and APP satisfaction feedback pre- and post-intervention. Data was analyzed using R-4.40. Oncologists, fellows, and APPs completed Qualtrics surveys pre- and post-intervention regarding their experience. Results: Subspeciality oncology consults were associated with a significant decrease in LOS, TTC, and ICU rate. Median LOS decreased by 2.0 days (P&lt;0.001), with median TTC decreasing by 1.0 hour (P=0.003). ICU rate decreased from 27.5% to 16.4% (P&lt;0.001). There was no difference in hospice referrals or 30-day ED visits. A significant increase in 30-day readmission during post-intervention was observed (Table). Oncologists reported a high level of satisfaction with the program. Oncologist, fellow, and APP overall experience and educational rankings increased after the introduction of subspeciality consults. Inpatient productivity measured by wRVU increased by 30% following the intervention, without associated changes to outpatient productivity. Conclusions: Transition to a subspeciality oncology consult model improved inpatient quality of care, as well as clinician experience. Additionally, inpatient productivity increased without decrease in outpatient metrics. Subspeciality medical oncology consultation can improve inpatient quality of care, education, clinician satisfaction and productivity. Subspeciality oncology consult outcomes. General Consults (Baseline)* Subspeciality Consults (Intervention) P-value Median TTC (Hours) 4.0 (1.5-6.0)** 3.0 (0-5.0)** P=0.003 Median LOS (Days) 7.0 (4.0-13.0)** 5.0 (3.0-10.0)** P&lt;0.001 ICU Rate 148 (27.5%) 161 (16.4%) P&lt;0.001 Hospice Referral Rate 56 (10.4%) 95 (9.7%) 0.655 30-Day Readmission Rate 136 (25.3%) 301 (30.7%) 0.028 30-Day ED Rate 157 (29.2%) 315 (32.1%) 0.247 *Baseline data reflects outcomes for general oncology consult staffing, prior to initiation of subspeciality consult model (pre-intervention). **Interquartile Range (IQR).

Patients with fibromyalgia have increased risk of 90-day postoperative adverse events following arthroscopic rotator cuff repair

BackgroundArthroscopic rotator cuff repair (RCR) is a common surgical intervention for symptomatic rotator cuff tears when conservative management fails. Understanding the potential correlation of short- and longer-term outcomes associated with defined comorbidities can help with patient selection, counseling, and related care pathways. The association of fibromyalgia, one potential comorbidity, with outcomes following RCR has not been reported in the literature. MethodsPatients with and without fibromyalgia diagnosed prior to undergoing RCR were identified from the PearlDiver Mariner161 database between 2016 and April 30, 2022, using Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes. Exclusion criteria were age less than 18 years, a diagnosis of neoplasm, trauma, or infection within 90 days prior to surgery, and postoperative records of fewer than 90 days. Patients with and without fibromyalgia were matched 1:4 based on age, sex, and Elixhauser Comorbidity Index (ECI).Ninety-day adverse events were assessed. Severe adverse events were defined as the occurrence of sepsis, surgical site infection, cardiac events, deep vein thrombosis, or pulmonary embolism. Minor adverse events were defined as the occurrence of wound dehiscence, urinary tract infection, pneumonia, transfusion, hematoma, or acute kidney injury. Also identified was the occurrence of any adverse event, emergency department (ED) visits, and readmission. These outcomes were compared with multivariate analysis. One-year revisions were assessed with Kaplan-Meier curves and compared with the log-rank test. ResultsIn total, 295,169 RCR patients were identified, of which fibromyalgia was noted for 12,366 (4.2%). Following matching, the final cohort sizes for those with and without fibromyalgia were 11,387 and 45,354 respectively.Diagnosis of fibromyalgia was independently associated with increased risk of all individual adverse events as well as aggregated incidence of severe, minor, and any adverse events (p<0.0001 for all). Additionally, patients with fibromyalgia had independently 90-day increased odds of ED utilization (p<0.0001). There was no statistically significant difference in reoperation between the cohorts within 1 year of surgery. Discussion and ConclusionFibromyalgia was associated with significantly increased 90-day postoperative adverse events and ED visits. These findings are relevant in surgical planning but are also balanced by a lack of difference in one-year revisions.

Extending emergency care beyond discharge: Piloting a virtual after care clinic.

Many unscheduled return visits to the emergency department (ED) stem from insufficient access to outpatient follow-up. We piloted an emergency medicine-staffed, on-demand, virtual after care clinic (VACC) as an alternative for discharged ED patients. Prospective cohort study of discharged ED patients who scheduled VACC appointments within 72hoursof index ED visit. We performed descriptive analyses and compared risks of ED return at 72hours and 30 days between patients who did/did not attend their appointment. From March to December 2022, 309 patients scheduled VACC appointments and 210 (68%) attended them. Patients who scheduled appointments were young (median 37 years), non-Hispanic white (80%), females (75%) with a primary care physicians (PCP) (90%), and commercial insurance (72%). Most VACC visits reinforced ED testing and/or treatment (64%) or adjusted medications (26%). VACC attendees were less likely to return to the ED within 72h (3.3%vs. 13.1%; risk difference 9.3% [95% confidence interval, CI 2.7%‒19.8%]) and 30 days (16.2%vs. 30.3%; risk difference 14.1% [95% CI 3.8%‒24.4%]) compared to those who scheduled but did not attend a VACC appointment.VACC attendance was associated with lower odds of 72-h (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0.0; 95% CI 0.0‒0.4) and 30-day (aOR 0.4; 95% CI 0.2‒0.7) return ED visits. In this pilot study, younger, white, female, commercially insured patients with a PCP preferentially scheduled VACC appointments. Among patients who scheduled VACC appointments, those who attended their appointments were less likely to return to the ED within 72hours and 30 days than those who did not.

A pilot study testing a new transition of care model from hospital to the community for Hispanic/Latino adults with diabetes to reduce emergency department visits and hospital re-admissions

BackgroundHispanic/Latino populations have the second highest prevalence of diabetes (12.5%) among ethnic minority groups in the USA. They also have higher rates of uncontrolled diabetes and diabetes-related complications. Approximately 29% of diabetes care costs are attributed to inpatient hospital care. To reduce hospital length of stay and re-admission rates for diabetes, the American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends a “structured discharge plan tailored to the individual patient with diabetes.” However, limited research exists on the feasibility and applicability of a transition of care model specifically tailored for the Hispanic/Latino population.MethodsWe conducted a 2-year pilot study to develop a practical, patient-centered, and culturally competent transition of care (TOC) model for Hispanic/Latino adults with diabetes discharged from the hospital to the community. Feasibility outcomes included recruitment rates, questionnaire completion rates, adherence to a 30-day post-discharge phone call, and resource needs and utilization for study implementation. Participant-centered outcomes included 30-day post-discharge emergency department (ED) visits, 30-day post-discharge unplanned re-admissions, follow-up visits within 2 weeks of discharge, and patient satisfaction with the TOC model.ResultsTwelve participants were enrolled over the study period, with weekly enrollment ranging from 0 to 4 participants. Participants’ average age in years was 47 (± 11.6); the majority were male (85%), and 75% had type 2 diabetes. Recruitment involved the support of 4 bilingual staff. The estimated time to review the chart, approach participants, obtain informed consent, complete questionnaires, and provide discharge instructions was approximately 2.5 h. Of the 10 participants who completed the 30-day post-discharge phone call, none had ED visits or unplanned hospital re-admissions within 30 days post-discharge, and all had a follow-up with a medical provider within 2 weeks.ConclusionsImplementing a patient-centered and culturally competent TOC model for Hispanic/Latino adults with diabetes discharged from the hospital to the community is feasible when considering key resources for success. These include a bilingual team with dedicated and funded time, alignment with existing discharge process and integration into the Electronic Medical Record (EMR) systems.

Complications and revision rates after total shoulder arthroplasty are similar between patients with and without diabetes mellitus

Purpose There is wide variability in the conclusions of studies examining the effects of diabetes mellitus (DM) on outcomes of shoulder arthroplasty (SA). The objective of this study was to determine if there are differences in complication profiles between patients with DM and those without undergoing anatomic and reverse total SA. Methods A retrospective review of patients undergoing SA in a single center from January 2014 to December 2019 was performed. Patients were then stratified into two cohorts, patients with controlled DM (mean hemoglobin A1C &lt; 7%) and those without. Outcomes analyzed included intraoperative complications, postoperative complications, and revision surgery rates. Emergency department (ED) visits and hospital readmissions within 30 days were also recorded. Results A total of 595 patients underwent SA. No significant difference was found between the diabetes ( n = 151) and control group ( n = 444) with regard to length of stay ( P = .168), complications ( P = .286), infection rate ( P = .977), 30-day ED visits ( P = .789), and readmissions ( P = .230). The average time to revision was 26.8 months in the diabetes group and 26.6 months in the control group ( P = .989). Conclusions Following SA patients with controlled DM showed no increased risk of postoperative infection, ED visitation,hospital readmission, and revision surgery rate when compared to non-diabetics. Level of evidence Level III—retrospective cohort.

Implementation and impact of a surgical dashboard on pediatric tonsillectomy outcomes: A quality improvement study.

In pediatric tonsillectomy management, the consistent tracking of surgical outcomes and adherence to guidelines are vital. This study explores how a surgical dashboard can serve as a tool in research analysis, translating AAO-HNSF guidelines into measurable performance improvements. Using a prospective registry from three pediatric hospitals, a Tableau dashboard was constructed to graphically visualize key demographic and postoperative outcomes (including intensive care unit [ICU] utilization, 30-day emergency department (ED) visits, and postoperative bleed rates) in children undergoing tonsillectomy from 2020 to 2024. From the dashboard data, a retrospective cohort study analyzing 6767 tonsillectomies was conducted from January 2, 2020, to June 20, 2023. Patients were categorized into low-risk, OSA-only (by ICD-10 codes), and high-risk groups based on comorbidities. Logistic regression identified factors influencing ED revisits and unplanned nursing calls. Three quality initiatives were assessed: preoperative school absence notes, perioperative dexamethasone recording, and post-tonsillectomy parental education. A total of 2122 (31%) were low-risk, 2648 (39%) were OSA-only, and 1997 (30%) high risk. Risk factors that increased the likelihood of ED visits were high-risk comorbidities (OR = 1.46; 95% CI = 1.24-1.74; p < 0.001) and older age (OR = 1.05; 95% CI = 1.03-1.08; p < 0.001). Risk factors that increased the likelihood of an unplanned nursing communication were high-risk comorbidities (OR = 1.53; 95% CI = 1.34-1.75; p < 0.001), older age (OR = 1.03, 95% CI = 1.01-1.04; p = 0.001), and Medicaid insurance (OR = 1.25; 95% CI = 1.09-1.43; p = 0.002). Postoperative bleed control was generally comparable between the groups, at 2.8% (low risk), 2.7% (OSA), 3.2 (high risk) (p = 0.651). The dashboard aided in data collection, data visualization, and data analysis of quality improvement initiatives, effectively translating guidelines into tangible measures to enhance care. NA.

Machine learning for targeted advance care planning in cancer patients: a quality improvement study

Context: Prognostication challenges contribute to delays in advance care planning (ACP) for patients with cancer near the end of life (EOL). Objectives: Examine a quality improvement mortality prediction algorithm intervention's impact on ACP documentation and EOL care. Methods: We implemented a validated mortality risk prediction machine learning model for solid malignancy patients admitted from the emergency department (ED) to a dedicated solid malignancy unit at Duke University Hospital. Clinicians received an email when a patient was identified as high-risk. We compared ACP documentation and EOL care outcomes before and after the notification intervention. We excluded patients with intensive care unit (ICU) admission in the first 24 hours. Comparisons involve chi-square/Fisher's exact tests and Wilcoxon rank sum tests; comparisons stratified by physician specialty employ Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel tests. Results: Pre-intervention and post-intervention cohorts comprised 88 and 77 patients, respectively. Most were White, non-Hispanic/Latino, and married. ACP conversations were documented for 2.3% of hospitalizations pre-intervention vs. 80.5% post-intervention (p<0.001), and if the attending physician notified was a palliative care specialist (4.1% vs. 84.6%) or oncologist (0% vs. 76.3%) (p<0.001). There were no differences between groups in length of stay (LOS), hospice referral, code status change, ICU admissions or LOS, 30-day readmissions, 30-day ED visits, and inpatient and 30-day deaths. Conclusion: Identifying patients with cancer and high mortality risk via machine learning elicited a substantial increase in documented ACP conversations but did not impact EOL care. Our intervention showed promise in changing clinician behavior. Further integration of this model in clinical practice is ongoing.

The association between patient self-reported experiences with medication discharge counselling and hospital readmissions: a cross-sectional analysis of a population-based survey

ObjectiveTo investigate the association between patient-reported experiences with new medication discharge counselling and readmission to hospital or emergency department (ED) visits within 30 days of discharge. MethodsA retrospective cross-sectional study of patient-reported experiences from 8715 patients who reported being prescribed a new medication at discharge from a public hospital. Completeness of medication counselling was assessed based on (i) explanation of medication purpose, (ii) explanation of medication side effects, (iii) patient involvement in decision to use medication, (iv) provision of contradictory information. Multilevel models were used to estimate self-reported 30-day readmission or ED visit related to care received using adjusted odds ratios (AORs). ResultsPatients who were explained medication purpose were half as likely to report a readmission (AOR 0.54, 95%CI 0.31-0.93) or ED visit (AOR 0.65, 95%CI 0.48-0.87) within 30 days of discharge. Conversely, those who reported receiving contradictory information were more likely to report a readmission (AOR 1.62, 95%CI 1.16-2.26) and ED visit (AOR 1.82, 95%CI 1.41-2.34). ConclusionPatients who reported receiving comprehensive counselling on new medications were less likely to report being readmitted or visiting an ED within 30 days of discharge.

Impact of Dementia on Outcomes Following Hemiarthroplasty for Femoral Neck Fracture: A National Database Study

BackgroundDementia poses an elevated risk of femoral neck fracture (FNF) in the elderly, often leading to the need for hemiarthroplasty. Yet, the outcomes of hemiarthroplasty in patients who have dementia remain uncertain. The purpose of this study was to assess whether dementia serves as a potential risk factor for outcomes following hemiarthroplasty. MethodsDementia patients who underwent hemiarthroplasty for FNF with at least 1 year of follow-up were identified using a national insurance database. A 1:1 matched control cohort of patients who do not have dementia was created for comparison. Logistic regression analyses were used to evaluate the rates of complications between the two cohorts. A total of 89,072 patients, of whom half have dementia and half do not, undergoing hemiarthroplasty for FNF were identified. ResultsAside from increased risks of medical complications (P < 0.01), including pneumonia, cerebrovascular accident, acute kidney injury, urinary tract infection, and sepsis, within 90 days, dementia patients also demonstrated higher rates of surgical complications within 1 year, such as dislocation (odds ratio (OR) 1.87, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.71 to 2.04), periprosthetic fractures (OR 1.29, 95% CI 1.16 to 1.45), and revision (OR 1.23, 95% CI 1.10 to 1.36). On the other hand, dementia patients displayed slightly reduced rates of 90-day deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. However, no significant increase was found in transfusion, myocardial infarction, wound complications, periprosthetic joint infection, or aseptic loosening between the two cohorts. Additionally, patients who have dementia demonstrated a higher likelihood of 90-day emergency department visits, whereas rates of 90-day hospital readmission remained similar. ConclusionsAlthough dementia patients do not exhibit an elevated risk of periprosthetic joint infection, or aseptic loosening, they are more prone to experiencing higher risks of prosthetic dislocation, periprosthetic fracture, and revision. Furthermore, specific medical complications tend to be more prevalent among individuals who have dementia.

Optimizing care pathways: A study of the urgent dispatch program and its impact on emergency department visits

IntroductionThe use of acute hospital-level care at home (hospital-at-home) for patients who are chronically ill has led to decreased medical costs, amount of sedentary time, and hospital admissions. Our large integrated healthcare system identified the need to develop a mechanism through which to decrease emergency department (ED) visits in this patient population by creating a home acute care program called Urgent Dispatch. The primary objective of this study was to determine the medical condition for referral and seven and 30-day ED visit rates. MethodsThis was a retrospective cohort of all patients referred to the Urgent Dispatch program from April 1, 2021, through February 28, 2022. We assessed encounters for patient demographics, referral source, reason for visit, number of at home visits, total number of days in the program, and determined if the patient had an ED encounter within seven and 30 days of participation in the program. The healthcare system includes 10 hospitals (academic, community and rural), 17 emergency departments (hospital-based and freestanding) and their associated outpatient clinics. ResultsA total of 2218 orders were placed with 1530 (70.8 %) resulting in enrollment in the Urgent Dispatch program. The majority were elderly (75 ± 15.6), white (70 %), female (64.4 %), and had Medicare as their primary insurance (82 %). The average number of visits made by Urgent Dispatch was 1.46 (SD ± 0.95). The average number of days enrolled in the program was 2.4 (SD ± 4.1). The top three referral sources to the program were outpatient primary care (42 %), home care (28 %) and emergency medicine (20 %). The top body systems requiring a visit were cardiovascular (22 %), general (18 %), and respiratory (17.2 %). Of the 1530 urgent dispatch referrals, 19.8 % (n = 303) had an ED visit within seven days, 12 % (n = 183) had an ED visit within eight to 30 days, and 68.2 % (n = 1044) had no ED visit. ConclusionA home-based care model of healthcare delivery for patients with chronic medical conditions can provide effective care, with 80.2 % of patients avoiding an ED visit within seven days and 68.2 % avoiding an ED visit within 30 days.

A Cost Analysis of Traditional Versus Robotic Total Knee Arthroplasty Performed With an Imageless, Second-generation Robotic System.

This study compared perioperative outcomes as well as encounter and 90-day costs between patients undergoing traditional vs robotic total knee arthroplasty (rTKA). A total of 430 TKAs (215 rTKAs, 215 traditional) were retrospectively reviewed. All rTKAs were performed with an imageless, second-generation robotic system. Cohorts were propensity score matched by age, sex, body mass index, and American Society of Anesthesiologists score. Perioperative data and 90-day complications were subsequently compared. Cox regression analyses evaluated survival to all-cause revisions. Univariable analyses compared total cost of care for the initial encounter and 90-day postoperative period. Multivariable regression analyses were then performed to evaluate associations with increased encounter and 90-day costs. Patients undergoing rTKA had a higher incidence of discharge home (86.5% vs 60.0%; P<.001). The rTKA cohort trended toward a lower incidence of 90-day emergency department visits, and there was a significantly lower percentage of 90-day readmissions (4.2% vs 13.5%; P=.001). Cox hazard ratio demonstrated no difference in survival to all-cause revisions (hazard ratio, 1.3; 95% CI, 0.5-3.7; P=.64). The cost of surgery was significantly higher in the rTKA cohort ($9292 vs $8392; P<.001); however, there was no difference in cost of encounter ($10,356.86 vs $10,396.44; P=.110) or at 90 days postoperatively ($11,103.89 vs $11,040.13; P=.739). rTKA did not have a significant association with increased cost at 90 days postoperatively (odds ratio, 0.96; 95% CI, 0.90-1.02; P=.180). rTKA had a higher intraoperative cost compared with traditional TKA. However, with increased home discharges and fewer 90-day readmissions, rTKA was not associated with increased cost at 90 days. [Orthopedics. 202x;4x(x):xx-xx.].

Addiction Consult Service and Inpatient Outcomes Among Patients with OUD.

Despite rising hospitalizations for opioid use disorder (OUD), rates of inpatient medications for OUD (MOUD) initiation are low. Addiction consult services (ACSs) facilitate inpatient MOUD initiation and linkage to post-discharge MOUD, but few studies have rigorously examined ACS OUD outcomes. To determine the association between ACS consultation and inpatient MOUD initiation, discharge MOUD provision, and post-discharge MOUD linkage. Retrospective study comparing admissions that received an ACS consult and propensity score-matched historical control admissions. One hundred admissions with an OUD-related diagnosis, of patients not currently receiving MOUD who received an ACS consult, and 100 matched historical controls. Consultation from an interprofessional ACS offering expertise in MOUD initiation and linkage to post-discharge MOUD. The primary outcome was inpatient MOUD initiation (methadone or buprenorphine). Secondary outcomes were inpatient buprenorphine initiation, inpatient methadone initiation, discharge prescription for buprenorphine, linkage to post-discharge MOUD (buprenorphine prescription within 60days and new methadone administration at a methadone program within 30days after discharge), patient-directed discharge, 30-day readmission, and 30-day emergency department (ED) visit. Among 200 admissions with an OUD-related diagnosis, those that received an ACS consultation were significantly more likely to have inpatient MOUD initiation (OR 2.57 [CI 1.44-4.61]), inpatient buprenorphine initiation (OR 5.50 [2.14-14.15]), a discharge prescription for buprenorphine (OR 17.22 [3.94-75.13]), a buprenorphine prescription within 60days (22.0% vs. 0.0%, p < 0.001; of those with inpatient buprenorphine initiation: 84.6% vs. 0.0%), and new methadone administration at a methadone program within 30days after discharge (7.0% vs. 0.0%, p = 0.007; of those with inpatient methadone initiation: 19.4% vs. 0.0%). There were no significant differences in other secondary outcomes. There was a strong association between ACS consultation and inpatient MOUD initiation and linkage to post-discharge MOUD. ACSs promote the delivery of evidence-based care for patients with OUD.

The Impact of Preoperative Intra-articular Injections on Postoperative Outcomes in Hip Arthroscopy

Introduction: Hip arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure commonly performed to treat various hip conditions. Preoperative intra-articular injections, such as local anesthetics and corticosteroids, are frequently used to alleviate pain and as a diagnostic tool before hip arthroscopy. However, studies have shown conflicting information; some demonstrate better patient outcomes, while others have found an increased risk of complications and negative effects on postoperative recovery. This retrospective study evaluated the association between preoperative injections and postoperative outcomes in hip arthroscopy patients. Materials and Methods: A retrospective review of 1400 patients who underwent hip arthroscopy between 2014 and 2021 at our institution was performed. The patients were allocated into two cohorts based on whether they received a cortisone injection with local anesthetic within 1 year before the surgery. Outcomes during the study follow-up period (average: 437 days, max: 3018 days) were compared. Further analysis looked at subgroups at 30-day increments. Results: The results showed that 35.5% of the patients had received a preoperative injection. Although patients who received injections were more likely to be female (68.3% injected vs. 60.8% not injected, P = 0.019) and have asthma (12.5% injected vs. 7.3% not injected, P = 0.008), there were no significant differences in 90-day complications, 90-day emergency department visits, 90-day readmissions, any complications (wound infection, re-injury, recurrent pain or weakness, deep vein thrombosis, or pulmonary embolism), prolonged pain or recovery, reoperation, total hip arthroplasty, 6-month Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Physical Function, 6-month Hip Dysfunction and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score Joint Replacement, or follow-up time between the injection and noninjection groups. There were no other differences in demographics, comorbidities, or physical function between the groups. Conclusion: Our study suggests that preoperative corticosteroid injections with local anesthetics do not significantly affect postoperative outcomes in hip arthroscopy patients or increase the risk of adverse effects. Careful evaluation of these risks and benefits is crucial to minimize potential adverse effects and maximize patient outcomes.

Social Determinants of Health Disparities Increase 5-Year Revision Rates but Not Postoperative Complications After Primary Hip Arthroscopy

To investigate the impact of social determinants of health (SDOH) disparities on 30-day emergency department (ED) visits, 90-day postoperative complications, and five-year secondary surgery rates after primary hip arthroscopy using a large national database. A national administrative claims database was used to identify patients who underwent primary hip arthroscopy with femoroplasty, acetabuloplasty, and/or labral repair between 2015 and 2022. Patients were queried for whether they experienced any SDOH disparities, including economic, educational, environmental, or social disparities; those experiencing SDOH within 1 year prior to primary hip arthroscopy were matched 1:1 by age, sex, Elixhauser Comorbidity Index score, diabetes, obesity, and tobacco use to patients not experiencing any lifetime SDOH disparities. Odds of 90-day complications and 30-day ED visits were compared using multivariable logistic regression. Rates of five-year revision hip arthroscopy and of any secondary surgery (revision hip arthroscopy or total hip arthroplasty) were compared by Kaplan-Meier analysis. A total of 3,383 primary hip arthroscopy patients who experienced SDOH disparities were matched 1:1 to a control cohort of 3,383 patients who had not experienced SDOH (age, 41.0 years, 79.6% female, for both cohorts). Odds of adverse events following arthroscopy were low and not different between cohorts (SDOH: 1.51%, vs. No SDOH: 1.57%; P=0.09). Additionally, there was no difference in odds of 30-day ED visits (SDOH: 5.65%, vs. No SDOH: 4.79%; P=0.10). The rate of five-year revision hip arthroscopy was significantly greater among patients experiencing SDOH disparities (5.4% vs. 4.1%; P=0.02); however, there was no difference in rates of any secondary surgery between cohorts (11.8% vs. 10.4%; P=0.10). Patients experiencing SDOH disparities had similar odds of postoperative complications and ED visits after primary hip arthroscopy but greater rates of five-year revision hip arthroscopy compared to a matched-control cohort of patients not experiencing SDOH disparities. 3; retrospective case-control study.

Total Hip Arthroplasty Outcomes in Patients with Gout: A Retrospective Analysis of Matched Large Cohorts.

Gout is the most prevalent form of inflammatory arthritis in the world. Total hip arthroplasty (THA) has emerged as a widely sought-after and highly effective surgical procedure for advanced hip diseases. However, there is a lack of research on the impact of gout on primary THA outcomes in large cohorts. This study aimed to address this gap by primarily investigating complications following THA in patients with or without gout. Patients with records of gout in the 2 years leading up to their primary THA and who also have at least 2 years of follow-up were identified using a national insurance database and compared to a 5:1 matched control. A total of 32,466 patients with gout and 161,514 patients without gout undergoing THA were identified. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were done for medical complications up to 90 days and surgical complications up to 2 years. In addition, 90-day emergency department (ED) visits and inpatient readmission were also documented. Patients with gout demonstrated higher rates of medical complications including deep vein thrombosis, transfusion, acute kidney injury, and urinary tract infection than non-gout patients (p < 0.001). Gout patients also showed higher rates of pulmonary embolism (p = 0.017). Increased incidences of surgical complications were identified in gout patients, specifically wound complications and periprosthetic joint infection (p < 0.001). There was an increased risk of revision for gout patients up to 90 days (p = 0.003), 1 year (p = 0.027), and 2 years (p = 0.039). There was also an increased risk of dislocation for gout patients up to 90 days (p = 0.022) and 1 year (p = 0.047), but not at 2 years. No significant difference was observed in aseptic loosening or periprosthetic fracture. Additionally, gout patients also demonstrated a higher likelihood of 90-day ED visits and readmission (p < 0.001). Primary THA in gout patients is associated with increased risks of multiple medical and surgical complications. Our findings provide insights into the planning and expectation of THA for patients with gout. These insights have the potential to benefit the decision-making process for gout patients considering THA.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease as a Risk Factor for Complications and Revisions Following Lumbar Discectomy.

Retrospective cohort study. Patients with IBD are at an increased risk for postoperative complications following surgery. The goal of this study is to investigate if inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a risk factor for complications following lumbar discectomy. We identified IBD patients who underwent lumbar discectomy for lumbar disc herniation (LDH) and matched to them with controls without IBD in a1:5 ratio. We excluded patients with a history of spinal injury, cancer, infection, trauma, or surgery to remove the digestive tract. We used multivariate logistic regression analyses to compare postoperative outcomes, including 90-day complications, 90-day emergency department visits, and 90-day readmissions. In addition, 2-year re-discectomy rates and a 3-year lumbar fusion rate were compared between the cohorts. After applying the study criteria, we identified 6134 IBD patients with LDH for further analysis. With the exception of dura tears, patients with IBD had significantly higher rates of medical complications, incision-related complications, ED visits, and readmission rates compared to patients without IBD, especially for the 2-year and 3-year rates of disc recurrence and revision surgery. Patients with IBD who underwent lumbar discectomy are at a significantly higher rate of complications. Therefore, spine surgeons and other health care providers should be aware of this higher risk associated with IBD patients and properly treat the patients' IBD before surgery to lower these risks.

Chest tube management following two row vertebral body tethering for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis

Background The current gold standard of scoliosis correction procedures is still posterior spinal fusion, an extensively studied procedure. anterior vertebral body tethering is a newer surgical technique for the correction of scoliotic curves. Consequently, best practices have yet to be determined. Methods A single-institution, retrospective, review of all patients diagnosed with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis who underwent two row anterior vertebral body tethering between June 2020 and April 2022 was performed. Results Over the study period, 95 patients met inclusion: 79 females (83.2%) and 16 males (16.8%), age 14.4 ± 2.5 years, with a body mass index of 20.0 ± 2.9, and an average of 8.4 ± 2.1 levels treated. 28 (29.5%) procedures were for double curves and 67 (70.5%) for single curves. After tethering, a chest tube was positioned in each corrected side. A total of 123 chest tubes were analyzed, including 67 single curves and 28 double curves. The average chest tube duration was 2.5 ± 1.1 days and the average length of stay was 5.0 ± 2.0 days. The average chest tube output eight hours prior to removal was 61.1 ± 45.6 mL. There was no significant difference in average length of stay for patients who underwent correction of a single curve versus a double curve nor was there a difference in average length of stay or chest tube duration for revisions compared to primary procedures. For the entire cohort, the 30-day emergency department visit rate was 7.4% (n = 7) and the readmission rate was 4.2% (n = 4). Conclusions This early review of a 2-year two row vertebral body tethering postoperative experience provides a report of a safe and effective approach to chest tube management at a single academic center.

A Nationwide Analysis of Complications, Reoperations and Cost of Wide-Awake Flexor Tendon Repairs.

Some papers suggest that wide-awake flexor tendon repair (FTR) may reduce rates of postoperative tendon gapping and rupture due to improved intraoperative testing of the repair. The current study is a nationwide cohort study comparing FTRs performed wide-awake and with traditional anesthesia. Patients undergoing zone II FTR between 2010-2022 were identified in PearlDiver. Exclusion criteria were other tendon repairs, concomitant treatment for vascular injury, fracture, dislocation or amputation, inpatient or office surgery, age <18 years and <1 year of follow-up. Patients were stratified by anesthesia technique: traditional anesthesia (general anesthesia, monitored anesthesia care, regional blocks) or wide-awake. Patients were matched based on age, sex, Elixhauser Comorbidity Index (ECI) score, geographical region, insurance coverage, number of tendon repairs and presence of concomitant nerve repair. 30-day wound complications, emergency department visits and readmissions and 1-year reoperations were identified. Total reimbursement for surgery was determined. Each matched cohort included 2,563 patients. Wide-awake patients had fewer 30-day emergency department visits (2.7% vs 4.8%). There were no differences in 30-day wound complications or readmissions. There was no difference in 1-year reoperations for rupture or for stiffness. Multivariable linear regression identified wide-awake surgery to be a significantly associated with lower total reimbursement. Performing digital FTR using wide-awake techniques can reduce costs, but the hypothesis that wide-awake repairs may reduce rates of tendon rupture was not supported by the current study.