Mean Hospital Length Of Stay Research Articles

Perioperative predictors of prolonged length of hospital stay following total knee arthroplasty: a retrospective study from a single center in China

BackgroundDecreasing the length of hospital stay is an ideal course of action to appropriately allocate medical resources. The aim of this retrospective study was to identify perioperative factors that may decrease the length of hospital stay (LOS).MethodsIn this study, we collected the data on 1112 patients who underwent primary total knee arthroplasty surgery (TKAs) at our institution from Jan 1, 2011 to Nov 31, 2017. Based on the published literature, 16 potential factors (12 preoperative variables, 1 intraoperative variable, and 3 postoperative variables) were investigated. The patients requiring a hospital stay longer than the mean LOS (8 days) were defined as patients with a prolonged LOS. The factors with a P value less than 0.1 in the univariate analysis were further analysed in a multivariate model. An ordinal regression was used to determine independent risk factors for a prolonged LOS.ResultsThe mean LOS was 8.3 days (±4.3), with a range of 2 to 30 days. Sixteen variables were analysed by univariate analysis, and 11 of them had p < 0.1 and were included in the multivariable model. Finally, 9 factors were found to be associated with a prolonged LOS. Among the 9 variables, 2 were surgery-related factors (operative time and intraoperative blood loss), and 3 were patient-related factors (age, ASA classification and neurological comorbidities).ConclusionIn this study, we found that the clinical protocol, complications, the patient’s age, the ASA classification, neurological comorbidities, the operative time, the ward, intraoperative blood loss and the surgeon were all factors contributing to a prolonged LOS. In clinical practice, these factors provide important information for the surgeon and are useful for identifying patients with a high risk of a prolonged LOS.

Nosocomial infections: A further assault on patients in a high-volume urban trauma centre in South Africa.

Hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) are a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Surgical site infection (SSI) rates are reported to range from 2.5% to 41%. HAI increases the risk of death by 2 - 11%, and three-quarters of these deaths are directly attributable to SSIs. To determine the incidence of HAI and to identify risk factors amenable to modification with a resultant reduction in infection rates. An analysis of HAIs was performed between January and April 2018 in the trauma centre surgical wards at Groote Schuur Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa. There were 769 admissions during the study period. Twenty-two patients (0.03%) developed an HAI. The majority were men, and the mean age was 32 years (range 18 - 57). The mean length of hospital stay (LoS) was 9 days, higher than the mean LoS for the hospital of 6 days. Fourteen patients underwent emergency surgery, 3 patients underwent abbreviated damage control surgery, and 9 patients were admitted to the critical care unit. Most patients with nosocomial sepsis were treated with appropriate culture-based antibiotics (82%). Four patients were treated with amoxicillin/clavulanic acid presumptively prior to culture and sensitivity results, after which antibiotic therapy was tailored. All but 1 patient received antibiotics. A combination of measures is required to prevent trauma-related infections. By determining the incidence of nosocomial infections in our trauma patients, uniform policies to reduce infection rates further could be determined. Our low incidence of infection may be explained by established preventive care bundles already in place.

Fast-track recovery for perforated duodenal ulcer

To study the outcomes of fast-track recovery in patients with perforated duodenal ulcer (PDU). There were 138 patients with PDU who underwent surgical treatment for the period from January 1, 2015 to December 31, 2019. Patients were divided into 3 groups: main group, control group 1 (CG-1) and control group 2 (CG-2). The main group (fast-track group, FT-group) included 51 patients who underwent laparoscopic suturing of PDU followed by enhanced recovery (fast-track). CG-1 comprised 44 patients who underwent open suturing of PDU and conventional perioperative treatment. CG-2 consisted of 43 patients who underwent laparoscopic suturing and conventional perioperative treatment. Complications were assessed using Clavien-Dindo grading system. In the FT group, postoperative complications were observed in 2 patients (3.92%). Anemia of mixed genesis (Clavien-Dindo grade II) was diagnosed in 1 patient and left-sided lower lobe pneumonia in another one (grade II). There were no deaths. Mean length of hospital-stay was 3.86 days. In the 1st control group, the largest number of complications was observed (n=12, 27.27%) including 9 extra-abdominal complications (pulmonary disorders (II) - 7 patients (15.9%); sepsis (IVB) - 1 (2.27%), delirium (IVA) - 1 patient (2.27%), postoperative wound seroma (IIIA) - 1 (2.27%) patient). Intra-abdominal complications consisted of compensated pyloroduodenal stenosis (II) in 1 (2.27%) case, recurrent bleeding from acute gastric and duodenal ulcers (IIIB) in 1 (2.27%) patient. Mortality rate was 4.54% (n=2) in this group (progressive multiple organ failure). Mean length of hospital-stay was 7.56 days. In the 2nd control group, postoperative complications included extra-abdominal (pulmonary disorders (II) - pneumonia in 4 (9.3%) cases, spontaneous pneumothorax (IIIA) in 1 (2.32%) case) and intra-abdominal events (duodenitis (II) in 1 (2.32%) patient and compensated pyloroduodenal stenosis (II) in another 1 (2.32%) patient). There were no lethal outcomes in this group. Mean length of hospital-stay was 6.7 days. Treatment outcomes in patients with perforated duodenal ulcer confirmed an effectiveness of laparoscopic suturing and complete abdominal sanitation. These measures create the prerequisites for fast track recovery in urgent surgical practice. FT-protocol of inpatient management is followed by reduced hospital-stay and less incidence of postoperative complications. Moreover, this approach promotes early and safe discharge of patients.

Implementation of a Spine-Centered Care Pathway at a Regional Academic Spine Center.

Study Design:Retrospective case series.Objective:To describe the early implementation of an inpatient spinal surgery unit and measure the impact on cost and length of stay (LOS).Methods:A retrospective case review was performed for frequent spine-related diagnosis-related groups (DRGs) cared for by a dedicated multidisciplinary team: combined anterior/posterior (AP) spinal fusion with major complicating or comorbid condition (MCC), combined (AP) spinal fusion with CC, combined (AP) spinal fusion without complicating or comorbid (CC)/MCC, cervical spinal fusion with MCC, cervical spinal fusion with CC, and cervical spinal fusion without CC/MCC. Four time periods were compared: historical control, initial pathway implementation, full pathway implementation, and spine unit opening. Mean hospital LOS, mean and median total costs (USD), and ratio of costs-to-charges were analyzed.Results:The number of spine cases per interim ranged from 219 to 258. The mean overall hospital LOS and mean cost varied from 3.8 to 4.3 days for all DRGs across the time periods and was not significant. Cost also did not vary significantly throughout. Median variable cost per anterior/posterior spinal fusion procedure with a CC or MCC declined by 16 311, first with the institution of a spine pathway protocol by USD8738 and then USD7423 with the establishment of a spine care unit but did not reach significance.Conclusions:The use of a standardized, inpatient spine care pathway implemented by a multidisciplinary team may reduce the hospital length of stay and decrease overall costs.

Effect of laparoscopic surgery on the risk for surgical site infections in colorectal resection: results from the Health Insurance Review & Assessment Service Database.

PurposeTo compare the hospital length of stay (LOS), duration of antibiotic use, medical costs, and incidence of surgical site infection (SSI) between laparoscopic colorectal surgery (Lap-CRS) and open CRS (Open-CRS).MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed data of the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service Surgical Antibiotic Prophylaxis assessment (7th assessment, 2015); the nationwide data were collected from patients who underwent CRS from September to November 2015 in low volume hospital to the tertiary hospital level in Korea.ResultsAll 2,751 patients who underwent elective CRS were assessed. The mean hospital LOS (12.18 days vs. 14.16 days, P < 0.001) and mean postoperative LOS (8.21 days vs. 9.46 days, P < 0.001) were shorter in the Lap-CRS group than in the Open-CRS group. The mean duration of antibiotic use was shorter in the Lap-CRS group (2.91 days vs. 3.64 days, P = 0.033). The rate of SSI was lower in the Lap-CRS group, but there was no significant difference between the groups (3.57% vs. 5.01%, P = 0.133). Among the SSI group, the mean LOS (19.5 days vs. 24.9 days, P = 0.081), duration of antibiotic use (12.62 days vs. 15.46 days, P = 0.097), and medical costs showed no significant difference between the 2 groups.ConclusionLap-CRS is significantly associated with reduced hospital LOS and the duration of antibiotic use in this study. However, we could not identify significant differences in the incidence of SSI according to the type of surgery. To assess the overall benefits of Lap-CRS, studies including the rate of SSI up to 30 days postoperatively will be needed in the future.

Outcomes of oesophageal variceal bleeding among patients with atrial fibrillation: a propensity-matched analysis of a nationwide inpatient sample.

IntroductionWe aimed to determine the influence of atrial fibrillation (AF) on mortality, morbidity, length of hospital stay, and resource utilisation in patients with oesophageal variceal bleeding (OVB).Material and methodsThe National Inpatient Sample database (2016 and 2017) was used for data analysis using the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision codes to identify patients with the principal diagnosis of OVB and AF. We assessed the all-cause in-hospital mortality, morbidity, predictors of mortality, length of hospital stay (LOS), and total costs between propensity-matched groups of OVB with AF vs. OVB alone.ResultsWe identified 80,325 patients with OVB, of whom 4285 had OVB with AF, and 76,040 had OVB only. The in-hospital mortality was higher in OVB with AF (OR = 1.4, 95% CI: 1.09–1.83; p < 0.001). OVB with AF had higher odds of sepsis (OR = 1.4, 95% CI: 1.1–1.8; p = 0.007), acute kidney injury (OR = 1.2, 95% CI: 1.12–1.32; p < 0.001), and mechanical ventilation (OR = 1.2, 95% CI: 1.12–1.32; p < 0.001). Advanced age (OR = 1.06, 95% CI: 1.05–1.07; p < 0.001), congestive heart failure (OR = 1.7, 95% CI: 1.3–2.3; p < 0.001), coronary artery disease (OR = 1.4, 95% CI: 1.03–1.92; p = 0.02), and sepsis (OR = 1.3, 95% CI: 1.06–1.70; p = 0.01) were identified as predictors of mortality in OVB with AF. Mean LOS (7.5 ±7.4 vs. 6.0 ±7.2, p < 0.001) and mean total costs ($25,452 vs. $21,109, p < 0.001) were also higher.ConclusionsIn this propensity-matched analysis, OVB with AF was associated with higher odds of in-hospital mortality, sepsis, acute kidney injury, and mechanical ventilation.

A Longitudinal Study on Comparison of Haematocrit, Glasgow Score and Computed Tomography Abdomen as Prognostic Markers in Assessment of Severity in Acute Pancreatitis

Introduction: Acute Pancreatitis (AP) can present from a mild self-limiting process that requires only supportive care to severe disease that can cause multiple Organ Failure (OF) and high mortality. It is therefore important to identify such patients at increased risk of OF and mortality at the earliest. Aim: To evaluate and compare the efficacy of three prognostic markers namely Haematocrit, Glasgow scoring and Computed Tomography (CT) abdomen in assessing the severity of AP. Materials and Methods: A prospective longitudinal study was done on 120 patients diagnosed with AP, over a period of 18 months. Haematocrit was done at admission and at 48 hours. A fall in haematocrit of more than 10% was considered sensitive. Modified Glasgow score was assessed at admission and after 48 hours. Other variables include blood glucose level, white blood count, blood urea nitrogen, serum calcium, partial oxygen pressure (PaO2), decrease in haematocrit, serum Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH), serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and serum albumin. A score of ≥3 was considered sensitive. CT of abdomen was done at 72 hours and a Computed Tomography Severity Index (CTSI) score of ≥4 was considered sensitive. The results of each prognostic marker were graphed and compared to assess Length of Hospital Stay (LOHS), need for Intensive Care Unit Admission (ICUA), OF and mortality. Results: The mean LOHS was six days. Haematocrit was sensitive in 23 of 79 patients that stayed in hospital for &gt;6 days. Modified Glasgow scores were sensitive in 35 of 79 patients. CT of abdomen was sensitive in 59 out of 79 patients. Total 29 of 120 patients were admitted in the ICU, out of which difference in haematocrit was sensitive in 14 patients, Modified Glasgow coma score of ≥3 was seen in 14 patients and CTSI scores were sensitive in 22 patients. Twelve out of 120 patients developed OF. All 12 patients showed a sensitive Modified Glasgow scores of ≥3 and CTSI ≥4, whereas only five patients were sensitive for fall in haematocrit. Five patients died during the study. All five patients were sensitive for fall in haematocrit Glasgow coma scores and CT abdomen. Among the prognostic markers, haematocrit showed 100% sensitivity, specificity and Positive Predictive Value (PPV) than the other prognostic markers making haematocrit the better prognostic marker. Conclusion: CT of abdomen is a reliable prognostic marker in terms of assessment of LOHS, need for Intensive Care Unit (ICU) care and mortality. Modified Glasgow score is accurate in assessing OF. Haematocrit is specific in assessing the need for ICU care and mortality.

Minimally invasive surgical interventions in the treatment of severe acute pancreatitis

To improve the outcomes in patients with severe destructive pancreatitis undergoing minimally invasive surgery. There were 482 patients with acute destructive pancreatitis for the period from 2007 to 2016. Non-infected acute destructive pancreatitis was diagnosed in 58% (n=280) of patients, infected pancreatic necrosis - in 42% (n=202) of patients. Minimally invasive technologies were used in the treatment of purulent complications of destructive pancreatitis: endoscopic papillotomy, percutaneous puncture of fluid accumulations, ultrasound- and X-ray-assisted drainage of abscesses and retroperitoneal phlegmon. There were 688 drainage surgeries in 92 patients with infected pancreatic necrosis: US-assisted Seldinger drainage - 599 (87%), single-stage drainage - 89 (13%) cases. Percutaneous transfistular retroperitoneal interventions were made in 72 patients (one intervention - 29 patients, redo procedures - 43 patients). Complications associated with minimally invasive procedures developed in 2.7% (19) of cases. Six patients required laparotomy. Mean length of hospital-stay was 36.5 days. Mean rate of restitution of post-necrotic areas was 37.7 days. Minimally invasive procedures reduce overall mortality up to 6% in patients with acute pancreatitis and up to 14% in those with destructive forms of inflammation.

Musculocutaneous grafting in the treatment of irradiation-induced chest osteomyelitis

To report our own experience of one-stage surgical treatment of irradiation-induced osteomyelitis as a complication of radiotherapy for breast cancer (BC). The study included 25 patients with irradiation-induced chest osteomyelitis after previous radiotherapy for breast cancer. All patients were examined according to the same protocol. One-stage surgery with full-thickness resection of affected tissues and plastic closure of the wound was performed depending on localization of lesion and availability of plastic material. Follow-up period ranged from 18 to 110 months (median 48 (19; 52) months). Complications were assessed according to Clavien-Dindo classification. Complications followed by antibacterial therapy and/or local treatment were observed in 8 (32%) out of 25 patients (95% CI 11.5-43.4). Marginal necrosis of musculoskeletal flap was registered in 4 (16%) patients. One (4%) patient required redo thoracomyoplasty after excision of necrotic tissues of musculocutaneous flap due to extensive tissue defect. Total necrosis of musculocutaneous flap was not noted. There were no fatal outcomes. Mean length of hospital-stay was 13 (10; 27) days in the group of musculocutaneous flap from latissimus dorsi muscle and 11 days (7; 24) in the group of rectus abdominis muscle. Good and satisfactory treatment outcomes after one-stage surgical treatment were achieved in 24 (96%) out of 25 patients (95% CI: 75-97.8). Irradiation-induced chest osteomyelitis is still actual problem despite an improvement of modern medical equipment and accumulation of experience in radiotherapy. Surgery is preferable method of treatment. Comprehensive examination including contrast-enhanced chest CT with 3D reconstruction and Doppler ultrasound of vascular pedicle is valuable to determine type of resection and plastic technique. Simultaneous approach with resection and plastic closure of the wound is preferred for irradiation-induced chest osteomyelitis if sufficient amount of plastic material is available and contraindications for reconstructive surgery are absent.

Development of a Preoperative Adult Spinal Deformity Comorbidity Score That Correlates With Common Quality and Value Metrics: Length of Stay, Major Complications, and Patient-Reported Outcomes.

Study Design:Retrospective review of a multicenter prospective registry.Objectives:Our goal was to develop a method to risk-stratify adult spinal deformity (ASD) patients on the basis of their accumulated health deficits. We developed a novel comorbidity score (CS) specific to patients with ASD based on their preoperative health state and investigated whether it was associated with major complications, length of hospital stay (LOS), and self-reported outcomes after ASD surgery.Methods:We identified 273 operatively treated ASD patients with 2-year follow-up. We assessed associations between major complications and age, comorbidities, Charlson Comorbidity Index score, and Oswestry Disability Index score. Significant factors were used to construct the ASD-CS. Associations of ASD-CS with major complications, LOS, and patient-reported outcomes were analyzed.Results:Major complications increased significantly with ASD-CS (P < .01). Compared with patients with ASD-CS of 0, the odds of major complications were 2.8-fold higher (P = .068) in patients with ASD-CS of 1 through 3; 4.5-fold higher (P < .01) in patients with ASD-CS of 4 through 6; and 7.5-fold higher (P < .01) in patients with ASD-CS of 7 or 8. Patients with ASD-CS of 7 or 8 had the longest mean LOS (10.7 days) and worst mean Scoliosis Research Society–22r total score at baseline; however, they experienced the greatest mean improvement (0.98 points) over 2 years.Conclusions:The ASD-CS is significantly associated with major complications, LOS, and patient-reported outcomes in operatively treated ASD patients.

Predictive value of quick SOFA and revised Baux scores in burn patients

Several scoring systems, such as the Baux score, help predict outcomes in burn patients. The quick Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (qSOFA) score (composed of a respiratory rate of 22/min or greater, systolic blood pressure of 100 mmHg or less, and altered mental status) is a new bedside index proposed to help identify patients with suspected infection at risk of complications. We hypothesized that qSOFA scores would be associated with in-hospital mortality, ICU admission, and length of stay (LOS) in patients with burns. We performed a retrospective review of all burn patients admitted between January 2010–March 2017 at an academic, suburban, hospital with a regional burn center. qSOFA scores were calculated as 1 point each for GCS<15, RR≥22, and SBP≤100. A qSOFA value of>2 was considered high risk. Revised Baux (rBaux) scores were calculated as age +%TBSA burned +17 (if inhalation injury). A rBaux score >140 was considered high risk. Univariate, multivariate and receiver operating characteristics analyses were performed to compare qSOFA and rBaux scores. There were 1039 burn admissions during the study period. Mean age was 30 ± 24 years, 66% were male. Mean TBSA was 10 ± 12%, mean injury severity score was 5 ± 8. Mean hospital LOS was 8 ± 24 days, 22 patients (2.1%) died. qSOFA scores were associated with mortality and ICU admission. Of all patients, 80 were high risk by qSOFA and 7 by Baux scores. ROC characteristics of qSOFA and Baux scores for predicting death were sensitivity 36% vs. 32%, specificity 94% vs. 100%, PPV 13% vs. 100%, and NPV 98% vs. 99% respectively. The AUC for qSOFA (0.68 [95% CI, 0.54–0.81]) was lower than for Baux (0.99 [95%CI, 0.99–1.00]). Youden’s index identified an optimal cutoff of 85 on the Baux score yielding sensitivity 100%, specificity 94%, PPV 27%, and NPV 100% for mortality. Our results indicate that while qSOFA scores were associated with outcomes, a rBaux score had greater predictive value. The optimal rBaux score for predicting all mortality and ICU admission was 85.

Non-medical factors significantly influence the length of hospital stay after surgery for degenerative spine disorders

Unnecessarily long hospital stays are costly and inefficient. Studies have shown that the length of hospital stay (LOS) for spine surgical procedures is influenced by various disease-related or medical factors, but few have examined the role of socio-demographic/socio-economic (SDE) factors. This was a retrospective analysis of data from 10,770 patients (5056 men, 5714 women; 62 ± 15years) with degenerative spinal disorders, collected prospectively in an in-house database within the framework of EUROSPINE's Spine Tango Registry. Surgeons completed the Tango surgery form (clinical history, demographics, surgical measures, complications), and patients, a baseline Core Outcome Measures Index. Stepwise linear regression analyses examined SDE predictors of LOS, controlling for potential medical/biological factors. The mean LOS was 7.9 ± 5.2days. The final model accounted for 42% of variance in LOS, with SDE variables explaining 13% variance and medical/surgical predictors, 29%. In the final model, the SDE factors age and being female were significant independent predictors of LOS, whereas others were either non-significant (insurance status, being of Swiss nationality, being a smoker) or reached only borderline significance (p < 0.1) (BMI). Controlling for all other SDE and medical/surgical confounders, being female was associated with 1.11-day longer LOS (95% CI 0.96-1.27; p < 0.0001). Patients of advanced age and female gender are at increased risk of longer hospital stay after surgery for degenerative spinal disorders. Further studies should seek to understand the reasoning behind the gender disparity, in order to minimise potentially unnecessary costs of prolonged LOS. Targeted preoperative discharge planning may improve the utilisation of hospital resources. These slides can be retrieved under Electronic Supplementary Material.

PCV59 HOSPITAL LENGTH OF STAY AMONG VENOUS THROMBOEMBOLISM PATIENTS TREATED WITH APIXABAN AND WARFARIN IN ENGLAND

This study investigated length of stay (LOS) among patients admitted to hospital for venous thromboembolism (VTE) in England. Linked primary (Clinical Practice Research Datalink) and secondary (Hospital Episode Statistics) care data were used to identify patients aged ≥18 years who experienced an incident VTE event initially treated in hospital between January 2013- July 2017. Patients prescribed either apixaban or warfarin in primary care after hospital discharge were included (with the assumption that this was the treatment received in hospital). Overall 1,152 VTE patients were identified; 69.2% with pulmonary embolism (PE) and 30.8% with deep vein thrombosis (DVT). 1,043 patients were treated with warfarin and 109 with apixaban. None of the baseline characteristics were significantly different between the two groups (e.g. mean age for warfarin patients was 63.7 years and for apixaban patients it was 63.2 years). The mean LOS of the initial VTE hospitalization was 4.6 days (SD: 5.1, IQR: 0-7) among warfarin patients and 2.6 days (SD: 3.7, IQR: 0-4) among apixaban patients; with the difference being statistically significant (p<0.001). These differences persisted when stratifying by VTE type. Within the PE cohort, the mean hospital LOS was 5.5 days (SD: 4.9, IQR: 2-8) among warfarin patients and 3.9 days (SD: 4.0, IQR: 1-6) among apixaban patients (p=0.004); corresponding estimates in the DVT cohort were 2.6 days (SD: 5.0, IQR: 0-3) among warfarin patients and 0.8 days (SD: 2.2, IQR: 0-0) among apixaban patients (p=0.019). Our findings suggest that hospital length of stay following VTE diagnosis was shorter among apixaban-treated patients compared to warfarin-treated patients, both for PE and DVT diagnosed patients. The small sample size for apixaban and lack of data for treatment specifically given in hospital however means findings should be interpreted with caution and need to be validated.

The Association Between Potential Opioid-Related Adverse Drug Events and Outcomes in Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Retrospective Study.

Characterization of the clinical and economic impact of opioid-related adverse drug events (ORADEs) after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) may guide provider and hospital system approach to managing postoperative pain after TKA. Our analysis quantifies the rate of potential ORADEs after TKA, the impact of potential ORADEs on length of stay (LOS) and hospital revenue, as well as their association with specific patient risk factors and comorbid clinical conditions. We conducted a retrospective study using the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services administrative database to analyze Medicare discharges involving two knee replacement surgery diagnosis-related groups (DRGs) in order to identify potential ORADEs. The impact of potential ORADEs on mean hospital LOS and hospital revenue was analyzed. The potential ORADE rate in patients who underwent TKA was 25,523 out of 316,858 records analyzed (8.0%). The mean LOS for patients who experienced a potential ORADE was 1.04days longer than those without an ORADE. The mean hospital revenue per day with a potential ORADE was $1334 (USD) less than without an ORADE. Potential ORADEs were significantly associated with poor patient outcomes such as pneumonia, septicemia, and shock. Potential ORADEs in TKA are associated with longer hospitalizations, decreased hospital revenue, and poor patient outcomes. Certain risk factors may predispose patients to experiencing an ORADE, and thus perioperative pain management strategies that reduce the frequency of ORADEs particularly in at-risk patients can improve patient satisfaction and increase hospital revenue following TKAs.

2003. Vancomycin Discontinuation Is Supported by-negative Nasal Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in Patients with Pneumonia

BackgroundA negative nasal MRSA PCR test has a 98–99.6% sensitivity in confirming that MRSA is not the causative organism associated with pneumonia in hospitalized patients. Evidence supporting the clinical utility of nasal MRSA PCR testing in the Veteran patient population is limited, with no identified publications to date. The purpose of this project was to share outcomes associated with implementation of nasal MRSA PCR testing in the Veteran population to guide duration of vancomycin therapy.MethodsThis retrospective cohort quality initiative compared treatment of pneumonia that included vancomycin during a pre-Antimicrobial Stewardship Program (ASP) intervention phase (August 2013–February 2014) to an active ASP intervention phase (August 2017–March 2019). ASP intervention consisted of utilization of a negative nasal MRSA PCR as a rapid diagnostic test to support discontinuation of vancomycin prior to microbiologic culture results. Retrospective chart review evaluated vancomycin days of therapy (DOT), hospital length-of-stay (LOS), 30-day hospital readmission, and 30-day mortality. Patients admitted to the intensive care unit during the identified hospitalization were excluded.ResultsThe average vancomycin DOT significantly declined by 1.08 days when comparing the pre-ASP intervention phase (N = 25) to the ASP-intervention phase (N = 47) (3.6 vs. 2.52 days, respectively; P = 0.0088). Mean hospital LOS decreased by 1.5 days (6.04 vs. 4.54 days, respectively, P = 0.0885). There was no significant difference in 30-day hospital readmission rate (12% vs. 8.5%) or 30-day mortality rate (12% vs. 10%).ConclusionVancomycin DOT was reduced by 30% (1.08 days) and hospital LOS was reduced by 24.8% (1.5 days) in patients with pneumonia during a Vet. Affairs medical center’s utilization of negative nasal MRSA PCR testing to support vancomycin discontinuation. This project highlights the role of nasal MRSA PCR as a rapid diagnostic test to aid in diminishing empiric vancomycin usage and its associated toxicities. Disclosures All authors: No reported disclosures.

Safety and efficacy of submucosal tunneling endoscopic septum division for epiphrenic diverticula.

Symptomatic epiphrenic diverticula are mostly treated with laparoscopic diverticulectomy. Our study aimed to demonstrate the safety and efficacy of submucosal tunneling endoscopic septum division (STESD) for treatment of symptomatic epiphrenic diverticula. Data from patients with epiphrenic diverticula who had undergone STESD were retrospectively reviewed. The parameters analyzed were the modified Eckardt score, total procedure time, length of hospital stay (LOS), number of clips used, adverse events, and patient satisfaction. A total of eight patients (5 men; mean [standard deviation (SD)] age 66.25 [7.17] years) were enrolled in our study. The mean (SD) size of epiphrenic diverticula was 3.68 (1.59) cm. The mean (SD) procedure time was 52.87 (22.47) minutes, with a median number of six clips being applied. The modified Eckardt score significantly decreased post-procedure (P < 0.001). The mean (SD) LOS was 5.87 (0.83) days. No adverse events or symptom recurrences were reported. STESD is a safe and effective technique to be performed in the submucosal tunnel for the management of patients with epiphrenic diverticula.

Fractures in Parkinson's Disease: injury patterns, hospitalization, and therapeutic aspects.

The primary aim of this study was to analyze the frequency and characteristic patterns of fall-related fractures as well as consecutive hospitalization and management relating to such fractures. In addition, important pathognomonic and therapeutic aspects are discussed. This retrospective mono-center study was conducted at the University Hospital Frankfurt am Main, Germany. Between 2007 and 2017, a total of 145 PD patients with fall-related fractures were identified via a retrospective systematic query in the hospital information system using the ICD-10 German modification codes G20.0-G20.9. Patients with unclear or falsely coded PD were strictly excluded. The mean age of the cohort was 77.7years (± 7.5, median 77.) and 57.9% of the cohort were females (n = 84). A total number of 151 fractures were reported, with 140 patients (96.6%) suffering from one, four patients from two (2.8%), and one patient from three fractures (0.6%) at a time. For 43.9% (n = 65) of the cohort, fractures concerned lower extremities (LE) followed by trunk (38.1%, n = 58) and upper extremities (UE, 17.9%, n = 27). Most common fracture types in LE were femoral neck fractures (52.3%, n = 34). Mean length of hospital stay (LOS) was 13.6days (95% CI 12.4-14.7). In 43.4% (n = 63) of cases, an interim admission to an intensive-care unit (ICU) was necessary. Mean ICU LOS was 2.3days (95% CI 1.5-3.0), and mean LOS for normal care unit was 10.5days (95% CI 10.3-12.4). Surgical treatment was necessary in 75.9% of the cases (n = 110). Patients undergoing surgical treatment showed significantly longer LOS compared to conservatively treated patients (p < 0.001). Moreover, fractures of the LE (p = 0.018) and UE (p = 0.010) were associated with a significant longer LOS. Fall-related fractures are a common and relevant complication in PD patients leading to increased immobility, frequent hospitalization, and immediate surgical care. Fractures of the lower extremities and trunk were the most common in the cohort for this study. A PD patient presenting to the emergency room or at the general practitioner with a fracture should always be checked for osteoporosis and a fall-related injury should be seen as a red flag for reviewing a patient's individual therapeutic regime.

Evaluation of Injury Severity and Resource Utilization in Pediatric Firearm and Sharp Force Injuries

Pediatric firearm injuries are a serious and growing public health problem, constituting the second leading cause of death in children and adolescents in the United States. Firearm injuries have a high case fatality, but knowledge is limited to date regarding their injury severity and health care utilization burden compared with those of other penetrating injuries, especially among children with critical injury. To describe and compare the resource utilization, injury severity, and short-term clinical outcomes associated with pediatric firearm injuries and other penetrating trauma. This retrospective cohort study used data from the National Trauma Data Bank, an encounter-level registry of trauma data in the United States, from January 1, 2007, to December 31, 2016. Encounters for firearm injury (n = 25 155) or cut or pierce injury (21 270) in children 17 years or younger were analyzed. Statistical analysis was conducted from July 15, 2018, to June 5, 2019. Firearm injury compared with cut or pierce injury encounters. Intensive care unit (ICU) admission, hospital and ICU length of stay (LOS), and Injury Severity Score (ISS). A total of 25 155 firearm injury encounters and 21 270 cut or pierce injury encounters were analyzed. Most firearm and cut or pierce injuries occurred among boys (21 573 [85.8%] and 15 864 [74.6%]) and adolescents aged 15 to 17 years (18 807 [74.8%] and 10 895 [51.2%]). A greater proportion of those with firearm injuries were African American children compared with those with cut or pierce injuries (15 019 [61.3%] vs 6397 [31.2%]). A greater proportion of those with firearm injuries compared with cut or pierce injuries were admitted to the ICU (7682 [30.5%] vs 2712 [12.8%]). Compared with cut or pierce injuries, firearm injuries were associated with a higher mean (SD) ISS (4.6 [6.8] vs 10.9 [12.7] points), longer mean (SD) hospital LOS (2.8 [4.1] vs 5.0 [8.4] days), and longer mean (SD) ICU LOS (3.1 [4.5] vs 5.1 [7.7] days). Firearm injuries accounted for 126 027 hospital days and 39 255 ICU days, whereas cut or pierce injuries accounted for 58 705 hospital days and 8353 ICU days. After adjustments for age, sex, year, and hospital, those with firearm injuries were more likely to require ICU admission (relative risk [RR], 2.3; 95% CI, 2.1-2.5; P < .001) and to have higher ISS scores (6.7 points higher for all injuries; 95% CI, 6.1-7.2) compared with those with cut or pierce injuries, even among critical injuries. Multinomial logistic regression demonstrated higher risk of prolonged hospital LOS (RR ratio, 4.11; 95% CI, 3.46-4.89; P < .001) and ICU LOS (RR ratio, 2.2; 95% CI, 1.9-2.3) for firearm injuries compared with cut or pierce injuries. This study found that pediatric firearm injuries were associated with greater severity and health care utilization compared with penetrating trauma from other mechanisms, suggesting that the mechanism of injury is an important consideration in penetrating sharp force trauma in children and adolescents. Public health measures, legislative efforts, and safe storage practices are among the interventions needed to reduce pediatric firearm injuries.

Enhanced recovery short-stay hip and knee joint replacement program improves patients outcomes while reducing hospital costs

IntroductionAn attractive option to reduce hospital length of stay (LOS) after hip or knee joint replacement (THA, TKA) is to follow the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery principles (ERAS) to improve patient experience to a level where they will feel confident to leave for home earlier. The objective of this study was to evaluate the implementation of short-stay protocol following the ERAS principles. HypothesisWe hypothesized that our ERAS THA and TKA short-stay protocol would result in a lower complication rate, shorter hospital LOS and reduced direct health care costs compared to our standard procedure. Material and methodsWe compared the complications rated according to Clavien-Dindo scale, hospital LOS and costs of the episode of care between a prospective cohort of 120 ERAS short-stay THA or TKA and a matched historical control group of 150 THA or TKA. ResultsSignificantly lower rate of Grade 1 and 2 complications in the ERAS short-stay group compared with the standard group (mean 0.8 vs 3.0, p<0.001). No difference was found between the 2 groups for Grade 3, 4, or 5 complications. The mean hospital LOS for the ERAS short-stay group decreased by 2.8 days for the THAs (0.1 vs 2.9 days, p<0.001) and 3.9 days for the TKAs (1.0 vs 4.9 days, p<0.001). The mean estimated direct health care costs reduction with the ERAS short-stay protocol was 1489 CAD per THA and 4158 CAD per TKA. DiscussionIn many short-stay protocols, focus has shifted from ERAS goals of a reduction in complications and improved recuperation to use length of stay as the main factor of success. Implementation of an ERAS short-stay protocol for patients undergoing THA or TKA at our institution resulted not only in reduced hospital LOS, but also in improved patient care and reduced direct health care costs. Level of evidenceLevel II.

4 Optimizing Inpatient Management of Acute Pancreatitis: A Single Center Quality Improvement Project

INTRODUCTION: The management of acute pancreatitis has evolved over the last decade with emphasis on early adequate fluid resuscitation, early nutrition, and cholecystectomy prior to hospital discharge in gallstone pancreatitis. Adherence to these metrics reduces mortality, hospital length of stay (LOS), and overall healthcare utilization. We evaluated our institution's current performance and subsequently devised a strategy to improve adherence to quality metrics. METHODS: Patients hospitalized with acute pancreatitis between January, 2017 and October, 2018 were reviewed. Patient demographics, etiology and severity of pancreatitis, rate and type of IV fluid resuscitation, time to initiating nutrition, hospital LOS, ICU LOS, and hospital re-admission rates were examined. An EMR order set for inpatient management of acute pancreatitis was then designed and launched in December, 2018. Follow up data was collected until May, 2019. RESULTS: Our baseline data included 240 hospitalizations for acute pancreatitis of varying etiologies (Figure 1) and severity (Figure 2). The average patient age was 54.3 years and the average BMI was 28.3 (Figure 3). The mean hospital LOS was 6 days. ICU care was needed in 17% of cases. Mean ICU LOS was 4 days. The 30-day hospital re-admission rate was 14%. Adequate IV fluid resuscitation was given in only 25% of cases, with 20% receiving Lactated Ringer's (LR) solution. The average time to starting nutrition was 3 days. Cholecystectomy was performed prior to hospital discharge in 87% of mild gallstone pancreatitis cases. After launch, the EMR order set was used in 19 of 70 hospitalizations for acute pancreatitis (usage rate 27%). Among these patients, 79% received adequate fluid resuscitation, with 84% receiving LR. The average time to starting nutrition was 1.4 days. The mean hospital LOS was 4.4 days. No patients required ICU level care. CONCLUSION: Our baseline data revealed non-adherence to guideline recommendations of adequate fluid resuscitation with LR and early enteral feeding. By designing a customized EMR order set, we improved adequate fluid resuscitation from 25% to 79%, while reducing time to nutrition from 3 days to 1.4 days. Our average hospital LOS decreased from 6 days to 4.4 days, below the national average of 4.7 days. The advent of our EMR order set for acute pancreatitis has helped standardize management and improve outcomes thus far. Further work is needed to increase EMR order set utilization and continue data collection on patient outcomes.