Higher Rates Of Medical Complications Research Articles

Chronic Anticoagulation in Patients Who Have Atrial Fibrillation Undergoing Outpatient Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Retrospective Matched Cohort Study

BackgroundPatients who have atrial fibrillation frequently require long-term anticoagulation with warfarin or a direct-acting oral anticoagulant (DOAC), such as apixaban or rivaroxaban, to avoid vascular complications. However, the impact of anticoagulant use on postoperative complications following total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in an outpatient setting has not been thoroughly elucidated. The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of anticoagulant use on early postoperative complications among atrial fibrillation patients undergoing outpatient TKA. MethodsAn insurance claims database was queried to identify all patients who underwent outpatient TKA between January 2010 and April 2022. There were two cohorts of patients, with associated 1:1 matched controls, who had atrial fibrillation and filled a prescription of either warfarin (N = 4,396) or DOAC (N = 5,383) for at least 30 days. The mean age was 70 years (range, 51 to 84), and 47.9% were women in the warfarin cohort, while the mean age was 70 years and 49.2% were women in the DOAC cohort. Postoperative 30-day medical and 90-day surgical complications were subsequently compared. ResultsPatients on warfarin had a higher incidence of pulmonary embolism (1.1 versus 0.2%, P < 0.001) and a lower incidence of TKA revision (0.1 versus 0.4%, P = 0.003) than matched controls. Similarly, patients on DOACs exhibited a higher incidence of pneumonia (1.4 versus 0.6%, P < 0.001) and myocardial infarction (3.2 versus 1.5%, P < 0.001) and a lower incidence of wound dehiscence (0.1 versus 0.5%, P < 0.001), joint infection (0.4 versus 0.9%, P = 0.002), and TKA revision (0.1 versus 0.4%, P = 0.002) than matched controls. ConclusionsAtrial fibrillation patients on long-term anticoagulants undergoing outpatient TKA experience higher rates of medical complications and lower rates of surgical complications than matched controls. Thus, patients on long-term anticoagulants may be considered for outpatient TKA but should be counseled appropriately on associated medical risks.

Durability of substantial clinical benefit leading to optimal outcomes in adult spinal deformity corrective surgery: a minimum 5-year analysis.

The objective was to evaluate factors associated with the long-term durability of outcomes in adult spinal deformity (ASD) patients. Operative ASD patients fused from at least L1 to the sacrum with baseline (BL) to 5-year (5Y) follow-up were included. Substantial clinical benefit (SCB) in Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), numeric rating scale (NRS)-back, NRS-leg, and Scoliosis Research Society (SRS)-22r scores and physical component score were assessed on the basis of previously published values. Factors were evaluated on the basis of meeting optimal outcomes (OO) at 2 years (2+) and 5 years (5+). Furthermore, 2+ patients were isolated and evaluated on the basis of meeting OO at 5 years (2+5+) or not at 5 years (2+5-). OO were defined as follows: no reoperation, major mechanical failure, proximal junctional failure, and meeting either 1) SCB in terms of ODI score (decrease > 18.8) or 2) ODI < 15 and SRS-22r total > 4.5. In total, 330 ASD patients met the inclusion criteria, with 45.5% meeting SCB for ODI at 2 years, while 46.0% met SCB at 5 years; 79% of those who achieved 2-year (2Y) SCB went on to achieve 5Y SCB. This rate was lower for OO, with 41% achieving 2Y OO (2+), while 37% met 5Y OO (5+) and 80% of 2+ patients had durable outcomes until 5+ (32% of the total cohort). Of the patient factors, frailty was significantly different among groups at 2 years, while comorbidity burden was significantly different at 5 years and the combination thereof differed in those with durable outcomes. Those who regained their level of activity postoperatively had 4 times higher odds of maintaining OO from 2 years to 5 years (p < 0.05). Osteoporosis rates, although equivocal at BL, were higher at the last follow-up in those who met 2Y OO but failed to meet 5Y OO. The odds of achieving OO at 5 years in 2+ patients decreased by 47% for each additional comorbidity and decreased by 74% in those who had lower-extremity paresthesias at BL (both p < 0.05). Controlling for patient factors and BL disability found fewer levels fused, decreased correction of sagittal vertical axis, and increased correction of pelvic incidence-lumbar lordosis mismatch to be predictive of maintaining 2Y OO until 5 years (p < 0.05). SCB was met in 46% of ASD patients at 5 years. The durability of OO was seen in a third of patients until 5 years postoperatively. Higher rates of medical complications were seen in those who failed to achieve and maintain OO until 5 years. Frailty and comorbidity burden were significant factors associated with the achievement and durability of OO until 5 years.

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.

Increased Rate of Complications Following Total Knee Arthroplasty in Patients Who Have Marfan Syndrome

BackgroundOutcomes of Marfan syndrome (MFS) patients after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) are poorly documented in the literature. The purpose of this study was to evaluate MFS as a potential risk factor for complications after TKA. MethodsUsing a national private payer insurance database from 2010 to 2022, MFS patients undergoing primary TKA were identified and compared to 10:1 matched controls based on age, sex, obesity, diabetes mellitus, and a comorbidity index. A total of 4,092 patients undergoing primary TKA were analyzed, of which 372 had MFS. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were done for medical complications up to 90 days and surgical complications up to 2 years. 90-day emergency department–visits and inpatient readmissions were also documented. ResultsCompared to the matched controls, patients who have MFS displayed elevated rates of surgical complications, including prosthetic instability (1-year, odds ratio (OR) 3.88, 95% confidence interval (CI) [1.58 to 8.66]; 2-year, OR 4.39, 95% CI [2.16 to 8.44]), and revision surgery (2 year, OR 1.79, 95% CI [1.05 to 2.91]). Additionally, patients who have MFS demonstrated significant higher rates of medical complications, including aortic dissection (2.15 versus 0%) and transfusion (OR 2.63, 95% CI [1.31 to 4.90]). ConclusionsPatients who have MFS are at higher risks of postoperative complications after TKA, encompassing both medical and surgical complications. Specifically, patients who have MFS have a significantly higher likelihood of experiencing prosthetic instability and requiring revision surgery. Given these results, it is crucial for orthopedic surgeons and patients alike to consider these risks when determining a course of TKA for patients who have MFS.

What interventions add value in lateral compression type 1 fragility pelvis fractures? A retrospective cohort study.

Fragility fractures are a large source of morbidity and mortality in the elderly. Orthopaedic surgeons are regularly the main point of contact in patients with lateral compression type 1 pelvis fractures, despite many of these being treated non-operatively. This study aims to identify risk factors for mortality and elucidate which follow-up visits have the potential to improve care for these patients. In all, 211 patients have been identified with fragility lateral compression type 1 fractures at a level 1 trauma centre over a 5-year period. For all patients, we recorded patient demographics, imaging data, hospital readmissions, medical complications and death dates if applicable. Of the 211 patients identified, 56.4% had at least one orthopaedic follow-up, of which no patient had a clinically meaningful medical intervention initiated. 30-day readmission rate was 19%, and 1-year mortality was 24%. Male sex, need for an assist device, higher Charlson Comorbidity Index and increased age were found to be statistically associated with increased risk of mortality. Patients who followed up with their primary care physician were found to have a statistically lower risk of mortality. Computed tomography scans were obtained in 70% of patients and never limited patient weight-bearing status or found any additional injury not already identified on the radiograph. For patients with lateral compression type 1 type fragility fractures, orthopaedic surgeons did not offer additional clinically meaningful intervention after the time of initial diagnosis in this patient cohort. The rate of clinical follow-up with a primary care physician is relatively low despite high rates of medical comorbidity. Computed tomography scans were utilised frequently but did not change recommendations. The high rate of medical complications and lack of orthopaedic intervention suggest that we should re-evaluate the role of the orthopaedic surgeon versus the primary care physician as the primary point of medical contact for patients with these injuries.

Immediate Postoperative Zolpidem Use Increases Risk of Falls and Implant Complication Rates Following Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Retrospective Case-Control Analysis

BackgroundZolpidem is the most widely used hypnotic in the United States and has known side effects. However, the morbidity of zolpidem use following total hip arthroplasty (THA) is not well-defined. Thus, the aim of this study was to assess the effects that zolpidem use has on medical and implant complications, falls, lengths of stay, and medical utilizations following THA. MethodsA retrospective query of a nationwide insurance claims database was conducted from 2010 to 2020. All cases of THA and hypnotic use were identified using procedural and national drug codes. Patients who were prescribed zolpidem within 90 days of surgery were matched to hypnotic naive patients 1:5 based on demographic and comorbidity profiles. The 90-day medical complications, falls, fragility fractures, costs, and readmission rates, as well as 2-year implant complications were compared between cohorts. A total of 50,328 zolpidem patients were matched to 251,286 hypnotic naive patients. ResultsThe zolpidem group had significantly higher rates of medical complications, falls, and fragility fractures when compared to the hypnotic-naive group. The zolpidem group had significantly higher rates of dislocation, mechanical loosening, and periprosthetic fracture. Likewise, healthcare utilization was significantly greater in the zolpidem group. ConclusionZolpidem use following THA is associated with significant risk of medical and implant complications, as well as fall risks, increased costs, lengths of stay, and readmissions. The findings of this study may affect discussions between orthopaedic surgeons and their patients on the benefits of sleep quality in their recovery versus the incurred risks of zolpidem use. Level of EvidenceIII, retrospective case-control study.

The impact of Behcet syndrome on total knee arthroplasty outcomes: a retrospective matched cohort study.

Articu lar involvement is a common manifestation of Behcet syndrome (BS), which can eventually result in significant arthralgia and necessitate total knee arthroplasty (TKA). However, outcomes of BS patients after TKA are still poorly documented in the literature. The purpose of this study was to evaluate BS as a potential risk factor for complications after TKA. BS patients undergoing primary TKA were identified from the PearlDiver Mariner database from 2010 to 2021 and compared to 10:1 matched controls. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were done for medical complications up to 90days and surgical complications up to twoyears. Ninety-day emergency department (ED) visit and inpatient readmission were also documented. A total of 4286 patients undergoing primary TKA were queried, of which 390 had BS. Patients with BS demonstrated significantly higher rates of medical complications, including deep venous thrombosis. The rates of surgical complications were similar between the two groups with the exception of periprosthetic instability, aseptic loosening, and wound complications in BS patients. Additionally, a significantly higher rate of ED visits but markedly lower rates of 90-day readmissions were noted in patients with BS. Patients with BS undergoing TKA are at higher risks of medical and surgical complications. Special considerations for a unique postoperative course with the higher complications should be made. It is crucial for orthopedic surgeons and patients alike to consider these risks when determining the expected course after TKA for patients with BS.

Impact of Hepatitis B virus infection on postoperative complications and length of stay in elderly patients with hip fracture: A retrospective cohort study

BackgroundOsteoporosis and subsequent fractures are common in the chronic hepatitis B (CHB) population, especially in the elderly. This study investigated the effects of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection on postoperative outcomes following hip fracture surgery. MethodsThe study identified elderly patients who underwent hip fracture surgery at three academic tertiary care centres between January 2014 and December 2020. Propensity score matching was performed to compare the outcomes of 1,046 patients with HBV infection to 1,046 controls. ResultsThe seroprevalence of HBV among elderly patients undergoing hip surgery was 4.94%. The HBV cohort had significantly higher rates of medical complications (28.1 vs. 22.7%, p = 0.005), surgical complications (14.0 vs. 9.7%, p = 0.003), and unplanned readmissions (18.9 vs. 14.5%, p = 0.03) within 90 days of surgery. Patients with HBV infection were more likely to have increased length of stay (6.2 vs. 5.9 days, p = 0.009) and in-hospital charges (¥52,231 vs. ¥49,832, p < 0.00001). Multivariate logistic regression suggested that liver fibrosis and thrombocytopenia were independent risk factors for major complications and extended LOS. ConclusionPatients with HBV infection were at greater risk of adverse postoperative outcomes. We should pay more attention to the considerable burden of perioperative management of CHB patients. Due to the high proportion of undiagnosed patients in the Chinese elderly population, universal HBV screening should be considered preoperatively.

Metabolic Bone Disorders Are Predictors for 2-year Adverse Outcomes in Patients Undergoing 2-3 Level Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion for Cervical Radiculopathy or Myelopathy.

Retrospective cohort study utilizing the New York statewide planning and research cooperative system. To investigate postoperative complications of patients with metabolic bone disorders (MBDs) who undergo 2-3 levels of anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF). MBDs and cervical degenerative pathologies, including cervical radiculopathy (CR) and cervical myelopathy (CM), are prevalent in the aging population. Complications with ACDF procedures can lead to increased hospitalization times, more expensive overhead, and worse patient outcomes. Patients with CM/CR who underwent an ACDF of 2-3 vertebrae from 2009 to 2011 with a minimum 2-year follow-up were identified. Patients diagnosed with 1 or more MBD at baseline were compared with a control cohort without any MBD diagnosis. Cohorts were compared for demographics, hospital-related parameters, and 2-year medical, surgical, and overall complications. Binary multivariate logistic regression was used to identify independent predictors. A total of 22,276 patients were identified (MBD: 214; no-MBD: 22,062). Among MBD patients, the majority had vitamin D deficiency (n = 194, 90.7%). MBD patients were older (53.0 vs 49.7 y, P < 0.001), and with higher Deyo index (1.0 vs 0.5, P < 0.001). MBD patients had higher rates of medical complications, including anemia (6.1% vs 2.3%), pneumonia (4.7% vs 2.1%), hematoma (3.3% vs 0.7%), infection (2.8% vs 0.9%), and sepsis (3.7% vs 0.9%), as well as overall medical complications (23.8% vs 9.6%) (all, P ≤0.033). MBD patients also experienced higher surgical complications, including implant-related (5.7% vs 1.9%), wound infection (4.2% vs 1.2%), and wound disruption (0.9% vs 0.2%), and overall surgical complications (9.8% vs 3.2%) (all, P ≤0.039). Regression analysis revealed that a baseline diagnosis of MBD was independently associated with an increased risk of 2-year surgical complications (odds ratio = 2.10, P < 0.001) and medical complications (odds ratio = 1.84, P = 0.001). MBD as a comorbidity was associated with an increased risk of 2-year postoperative complications after 2-3 level ACDF for CR or CM.

The effect of Parkinson’s disease on total knee arthroplasty: a systematic review and meta-analysis

PurposeThe purpose of this systematic review was to determine the effect of Parkinson’s disease (PD) on clinical outcomes and complications after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Our systematic review was conducted to answer the following questions: (1) does TKA negatively affect clinical outcomes in patients with PD? and (2) does TKA cause more complications in patients with PD?MethodsA rigorous and systematic approach was used, and each selected study was evaluated for methodological quality. Data on study design, total number of cases enrolled, follow-up duration, PD severity, clinical outcome, and complications after TKA were analyzed.ResultsFourteen studies were included. Nine studies reported clinical scores. TKA significantly increased knee and functional scores in the PD group. However, compared with knee and functional scores in the non-PD group, the increase in scores in the PD group was not statistically significant, but tended to be less than that in the non-PD group. Eleven studies reported complications. In six studies, there was no difference in the complication rate between the PD and non-PD group or did not include a control group. In five studies, the PD group had higher medical complication rates and similar or higher surgical complication rates than the non-PD group.ConclusionsPatients with PD who underwent TKA showed satisfactory functional improvement and pain reduction. However, these outcomes were not as good as those in the non-PD group. The PD group had a higher probability of occurrence of medical complications than the non-PD group. Further, the PD group had a similar or higher surgical complication rate than the non-PD group.

The influence of frailty on perioperative outcomes in patients undergoing surgical resection of liver metastases: a nationwide readmissions database study.

Liver metastases arise frequently from primary colorectal, pancreatic, and breast cancers. Research has highlighted the patient's frailty status as an important predictor of outcomes, but the literature evaluating the role of frailty in patients with secondary metastatic disease of the liver remains limited. Using predictive analytics, we evaluated the role of frailty in patients who underwent hepatectomy for liver metastases. We used the Nationwide Readmissions Database from 2016-2017 to identify patients who underwent resection of a secondary malignant neoplasm of the liver. Patient frailty was evaluated using the Johns Hopkins Adjusted Clinical Groups (JHACG) frailty-defining diagnosis indicator. Propensity score matching was performed and Mann-Whitney U testing was used to analyze complication rates. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were created following creation of logistic regression models for predicting discharge disposition. Frail patients reported significantly higher rates of nonroutine discharges, longer inpatient stays, greater costs, higher rates of acute infection, posthemorrhagic anemia, urinary tract infection (UTI), deep vein thrombosis (DVT), wound dehiscence and readmission, and greater mortality (P<0.05). Predictive models for patient discharge disposition, DVT and UTI demonstrated that the use of frailty status and age improved the area under the ROC curves significantly compared to models using age alone. Frailty was found to be significantly correlated with higher rates of medical complications during inpatient stay following hepatectomy in patients with liver metastasis. The inclusion of patient frailty status in predictive models improved their predictive capacity compared to those using age alone.

The Impact of Hepatitis C on Complication Rates After Revision Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Matched Cohort Study.

It is unclear if hepatitis C (HCV) negatively impacts outcomes of revision total knee arthroplasty (rTKA). The purpose of this study was to compare complication rates after rTKA for patients with HCV vs matched controls. A retrospective cohort study was conducted using the PearlDiver database (PearlDiver Inc., Colorado Springs, CO). Patients with HCV who underwent rTKA (n= 1448) were matched 1:4 with controls (n= 5792) on age, sex, and several comorbidities. Rates of medical complications within 90 days and prothesis-related complications within 2years postoperatively were compared with logistic regression for (1) patients with vs without HCV and (2) HCV patients who underwent aseptic vs septic rTKA. Relative to controls, patients with HCV exhibited significantly higher rates of medical complications (27.7% vs 20.9%; odds ratio [OR] 1.47), periprosthetic fractures (2.3% vs 1.1%; OR 2.20), all-cause repeat rTKA (11.7% vs 9.4%; OR 1.29), and repeat rTKA for prosthetic joint infection (PJI) (6.7% vs 3.6%; OR 1.92). Within the HCV cohort, HCV patients with initial septic rTKA exhibited significantly higher rates of medical complications (41.7% vs 22.7%; OR 2.39), all-cause subsequent rTKA (15.9% vs 10.2%; OR 1.67), and repeat rTKA for PJI (15.9% vs 3.4%; OR 5.39). Conversely, HCV patients with initial aseptic rTKA exhibited significantly higher rates of aseptic loosening (2.6% vs 7.4%; OR 0.33). Patients with HCV exhibited significantly higher rates of medical and prosthesis-related complications after rTKA than controls. Among patients with HCV, initial septic rTKA was associated with significantly higher rates of medical complications, repeat rTKA, and PJI.

Primary and Revision Total Hip Arthroplasty in Patients With Pulmonary Hypertension: High Perioperative Mortality and Medical Complications

BackgroundPerioperative medical management during total hip arthroplasty (THA) is continuously improving, allowing an increasing number of medically complex patients to undergo total joint arthroplasty. This study examined mortalities, medical complications, implant survivorships, and clinical outcomes of THA in patients who have pulmonary hypertension (HTN). MethodsWe identified 638 patients who had pulmonary HTN and underwent 508 primary THAs and 191 revision THAs from 2000 to 2016 at a tertiary care center. Patients were followed up at regular intervals until death, revision surgery, or last clinical follow-up. Perioperative medical complications were individually reviewed. The risk of death was examined by calculating standardized mortality ratios and Cox proportional hazards regression models. Cumulative incidence analyses were used for reporting mortality, reoperation, and revision with death as a competing risk. ResultsThe 90-day mortality was 1.8% and 3.1% for primary and revision THAs, respectively. The risk of death was approximately two-fold higher compared to primary (hazard ratio 2.69) and revision (hazard ratio 2.04) THA patients who did not have pulmonary HTN. Rate of medical complications within 90 days from surgery were 6.2% and 13.1% in primary and revision THAs, respectively. The 10-year cumulative incidence of any revision was 9% and 14% following primaries and revisions, respectively. ConclusionPatients who had pulmonary HTN undergoing primary and revision THAs had an increased risk of death and experienced a high rate of medical complications within 90 days of surgery. Counseling of risks, medical optimization, and referral to medical centers expert at managing complex medical problems should be considered. Level of EvidenceLevel IV.

Peripherally Inserted Central Line Catheters following Hand and Wrist Infections.

The PearlDiver Patients Records Database was queried to identify patients who underwent treatment for infection of the hand, wrist, and forearm between 2010 and 2018. Logistic regression analysis was utilized to evaluate the association of patient-related risk factors with PICC utilization, complications, readmissions, and length of stay (LOS). A total of 24,665 patients with an upper extremity infection were included in the study. Ultimately, 416 patients required a PICC placement (1.69%). Patients with older age, male gender, certain medical comorbidities, and infection involving deeper structures were more likely to require a PICC. Ninety-day all-cause medical complication rates were significantly higher for the PICC group (19.7% versus 6.7%) compared to those without. Any hospital readmission rates were significantly higher for PICC group at 90 days (28.4% versus 6.3%) and 1 year (35.8% versus 10.9%). Readmission rates remained slightly higher at 1 year for both groups. The PICC group demonstrated significantly longer LOS by 2 days (7.72 days versus 5.14 days). While not required for the majority of hand, wrist, and forearm infections, PICC placement is associated with increased medical complications, more frequent hospital readmissions, and longer LOS.

Increasing Patient Complexity Is Associated With Longer In-Hospital Lengths of Stay and Higher Rates of Medical Complications Following Primary 1- to 2-Level Lumbar Fusion.

The Elixhauser Comorbidity Index (ECI) is a stratification tool to predict adverse surgical outcomes. No studies have explored the relationship between ECI and outcomes following primary 1- to 2-level lumbar fusion (1-2LF). The purpose was to determine whether an ECI score greater than 1 correlated with (1) longer in-hospital length of stay (LOS) and (2) greater odds of developing 90-day medical complications. A retrospective review from 2004 to 2015 was performed using the Medicare Standard Analytical Files for patients undergoing primary LF. Patients with ECI scores from 2 to 5 served as the study cohorts (1 for each ECI score), and patients with an ECI score of 1 served as the control cohort. In-hospital LOS and 90-day medical complications were compared between cohorts. A P value of <0.001 was statistically significant. A total of 105,120 patients were equally distributed between the 5 cohorts. Patients with an ECI score of 2 (6.00 ± 4.51), ECI 3 (6.22 ± 4.67), ECI 4 (7.35 ± 5.05), or ECI 5 (8.99 ± 5.67) had longer in-hospital LOS compared with patients with an ECI score of 1 (4.28 ± 4.36) (all P < 0.001). Patients with an ECI score of 2 (OR: 1.17, 95% CI: 1.05-1.30, P = 0.003; 2.85% vs 2.45%), ECI 3 (OR: 1.22, 95% CI: 1.10-1.36, P < 0.001; 2.98% vs 2.45%), ECI 4 (OR: 1.26, 95% CI: 1.13-1.40, P < 0.001; 3.10% vs 2.45%), or ECI 5 (OR: 1.18, 95% CI: 1.06-1.31, P = 0.001; 2.89% vs 2.45%) had greater incidence and odds of 90-day medical complications such as pneumonia, deep vein thrombosis, cerebrovascular accidents, and myocardial infarctions than patients in the control group (all P < 0.0001). Increasing ECI score was associated with longer in-hospital LOS and increased 90-day medical complication rates following 1-2LF. This study is the first to establish a correlation between ECI score, in-hospital LOS, and complication rates following lumbar fusion. ECI score may assist physicians in adjusting pre- and postoperative care for complex patients undergoing 1-2LF.

Primary Cervical Disc Arthroplasty Among Medicare Beneficiaries Versus Alternative Payers: Is It Time to Consider Nationwide Coverage?

Retrospective cohort study. As of 2022, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services does not provide nationwide coverage for cervical disc arthroplasty (CDA). The aim was to determine whether Medicare beneficiaries have differences in: (1) lengths of stay (LOS); (2) complications; (3) readmissions; and (4) costs of care. Using the 2010 to 2020 PearlDiver database, we queried patients undergoing primary CDA for degenerative disc pathology. Study groups patients were those undergoing CDA with Medicare coverage (n = 1467); patients without Medicare coverage were the comparison cohort (n = 15,389). Endpoints were to compare demographics and comorbidities within the Elixhauser comorbidity index (ECI), LOS, 90-day complications, 90-day readmissions, and 90-day reimbursements. A multivariate logistic regression was used to calculate odds (OR) of medical complications and readmissions within 90-days. A P-value less than .003 was significant. Patients with Medicare coverage undergoing CDA had higher mean ECI compared to alternative payers (5.24 vs 3.26; P < .0001). Mean LOS was significantly higher for Medicare beneficiaries (2.20 vs 1.76 days; P < .010). There was no significant differences in odds of all medical complications (OR: 1.19, 95% CI: .98-1.44; P = .069) or readmission rates (1.77% vs 1.33%, OR:0.82, 95% CI: .50-1.29; P = .417) within 90-days following the index procedure among Medicare beneficiaries vs alternative payers. Non-Medicare beneficiaries had higher 90-day reimbursements compared to Medicare beneficiaries ($6,700 vs $7,086,P < .001). Medicare beneficiaries despite having slightly longer lengths of stay did not have higher rates of medical complications or readmissions. Surgeons and policy makers may use this data to consider alternative treatments in Medicare patients.

P34. Increasing patient complexity is associated with longer in hospital lengths of stay and higher rates of medical complications following primary 1- to 2-level lumbar fusion

<h3>BACKGROUND CONTEXT</h3> Lumbar fusion (LF) procedures are being performed at a higher rate and on an older patient population than ever before. The increasing age of patients undergoing LF is accompanied by increasing complexity and comorbidity burden. The Elixhauser Comorbidity Index (ECI) is a well-established stratification tool to predict adverse surgical outcomes. The ECI, developed in 1998, consists of 30 comorbidity measures associated with increased length of stay (LOS), hospital charges, and perioperative complications. Currently, no studies have explored the relationship between ECI and outcomes following primary 1- to 2-level lumbar fusion (1-2LF). <h3>PURPOSE</h3> The purpose of this study is to determine whether higher patient complexity, determined by an ECI score of 2 to 5, is associated with worse outcomes compared to less complex patients with an ECI score of 1 following 1-2LF. Specifically, this retrospective study compared: 1) in-hospital LOS and 2) rates of 90-day medical complications. <h3>STUDY DESIGN/SETTING</h3> A retrospective review from January 1st, 2005, to March 31st, 2014, was performed using an administrative claims nationwide database. Specifically, we used the Medicare Standard Analytical Files for patients undergoing primary lumbar fusion. <h3>PATIENT SAMPLE</h3> Patients undergoing primary lumbar fusion were identified using ICD-9 procedural codes 81.04 to 81.08. From this cohort, patients who underwent 1- to 2- levels of fusion were identified using procedural code 81.62. Patients who underwent LF for traumatic injuries, infections or malignancies were excluded. Patients with an ECI score of 1 to 5 were filtered using 1-point increments. As such a total of five different cohorts were formed with patients having an ECI score of 1 being the comparison cohort, and patients with higher scores being the study cohorts. <h3>OUTCOME MEASURES</h3> Primary endpoints of this study were to compare in-hospital LOS and 90-day medical complications between the study cohorts and comparison cohort. Ninety-day medical complications analyzed included: acute kidney injuries, cerebrovascular accidents, deep vein thromboses, ileus episodes, myocardial infarctions, pneumoniae, pulmonary emboli, respiratory failure, transfusion of blood products, urinary tract infections and venous thromboemboli. <h3>METHODS</h3> Each study group was individually matched in a 1:1 ratio by age and sex to the ECI 1 cohort. After the matching process there were a total of 105,120 patients (female = 56,216; male = 48,232) equally distributed between the five cohorts. Baseline demographics of the individual cohorts was compared using Chi-square analyses or Fischer's exact test, when applicable. To determine the association of ECI on 90-day medical complications, logistic regression analyses were used to calculate the odds-ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) on the individual complications. Due to the ease of finding statistical significance in large database registries, a Bonferroni-correction was performed to reduce the probability of a type I error. As such, a p-value less than 0.001 was found to be statistically significant <h3>RESULTS</h3> A total of 105,120 patients were equally distributed between the 5 cohorts. Patients with an ECI score of 2 (6.00 ± 4.51), ECI 3 (6.22 ± 4.67), ECI 4 (7.35 ± 5.05), or ECI 5 (8.99 ± 5.67) had longer in-hospital LOS compared to patients with an ECI score of 1 (4.28 + 4.36) (all p < .001) . Patients with an ECI score of 2 (OR: 1.17, 95%CI: 1.05 - 1.30, p = 0.003; 2.85% vs 2.45%), ECI 3 (OR: 1.22, 95%CI: 1.10 - 1.36, p < 0.001; 2.98% vs 2.45%), ECI 4 (OR: 1.26, 95%CI: 1.13 - 1.40, p < 0.001; 3.10% vs 2.45%), or ECI 5 (OR: 1.18, 95%CI: 1.06 - 1.31, p = 0.001; 2.89% vs 2.45%) had greater incidence and odds of 90-day medical complications including pneumonia, deep vein thrombosis, cerebrovascular accidents, and myocardial infarctions than controls (all p < 0.0001). <h3>CONCLUSIONS</h3> As the volume of LF procedures performed and patient complexity increase, it is important for providers to understand the relationship between comorbidities and perioperative outcomes so they may appropriately adjust patients' pre- and postoperative care. Our study is the first to establish an association between increasing ECI scores with longer LOS and higher 90-day complication rates following 1-2LF. Future research should focus on identifying specific comorbidities that have the largest effect on patient outcomes and determine which modifications to pre- and postoperative care can lower complication rates in complex patients. <h3>FDA DEVICE/DRUG STATUS</h3> This abstract does not discuss or include any applicable devices or drugs.

A Down’s syndrome case with coronavirus disease 2019 pneumonia

Management of Down’s syndrome (DS) cases with coronavirus disease 2019 in ICU has unique challenges, and strategic planning is needed for its management. Patients with DS are more likely to experience a severe course of disease with higher rates of medical complications and mortality than the general population, particularly adults older than 40 years of age. DS with co-occurring health conditions like obesity, diabetes, obstructive sleep apnea, and craniofacial dysmorphogenesis as in our case has special considerations. Apart from comorbid conditions, we faced challenges in prone positioning, mask ventilation, intubation, central vein cannulation, positioning during tracheostomy, and high peak pressure during ventilation. The clinician should be vigilant toward the challenges and plan management strategies accordingly.

Sleep Apnea and Postoperative Medical Complications and Health Care Expenditures Following Open Reduction and Internal Fixation of Bimalleolar Ankle Fractures.

Sleep Apnea (SA) is a common sleep disorder that increases postoperative morbidity. There is limited research on how SA influences outcomes following operative fixation of ankle fractures. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine whether patients who undergo surgical fixation for bimalleolar ankle fractures have higher rates of medical complications and health care expenditures. A retrospective review from January 1, 2005 to March 31, 2014 was conducted using the parts A and B Medicare Data from PearlDiver database. Patients with and without SA on the day of the primary open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of their bimalleolar ankle fractures were queried using the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision codes. Welch'st-tests were used to compare costs of care. A multivariate binomial logistic regression model was used to calculate the odds ratio (OR) of adverse events. A P-value <.001 was considered statistically significant. There were 20 560 patients (SA = 3150; comparison cohort = 17 410) who underwent ORIF for bimalleolar ankle fractures during the study period. Sleep apnea patients were found to have significantly higher rates and odds of 90-day medical complications (21.42% vs 7.47%, OR: 3.11, P < .0001) and 90-day costs of care ($7213.12 vs $5415.79, P < .0001). This research demonstrates an increased risk of postoperative medical complications and health care costs among patients with SA undergoing ORIF for bimalleolar ankle fractures. Therapeutic, Level IV: Retrospective.