Surgical Readmission Research Articles

Disparities in Surgical Readmissions and Use of Observation Status in Hip and Knee Replacements: A Retrospective Cohort Study.

Disparities in Surgical Readmissions and Use of Observation Status in Hip and Knee Replacements: A Retrospective Cohort Study.

Surgical Outcomes During COVID-19 Pandemic

BackgroundIn December 2019, an outbreak of a novel coronavirus (COVID-19) occurred in China and became pandemic in March 2020. Patients undergoing surgery are a vulnerable risk of COVID-19 exposure/infection. The aim of the study was to determine the characteristics and outcomes of patients undergoing surgery during the COVID-19 pandemic in a third level reference hospital in Mexico.MethodIRB approved observational study (prospectively collected database) of general and surgical oncology procedures from 04/20–08/20. Patients preoperative data and surgical cases registered. COVID-19 detection was a combination of polymerase chain reaction swab and chest computed tomography. Primary endpoints were: 30 d surgical mortality and complications, including COVID-19 infection during hospitalization.Results193 patients were included (mean age: 53.9 years, 63.7% female). 52.8% procedures were performed by surgical oncology. 42.4% developed a complication with 8.3% mortality. COVID-19 infection was 11.3% (n = 22). Postoperative morbidity (81.3 vs. 37.4%, p = 0.0001) and mortality (27.3 vs. 5.8%, p = 0.0001) was higher in COVID-19 (+) patients. Factors associated with COVID-19 infections were sex, functional status, preoperative sepsis and ventilation, renal failure and dialysis (univariate analysis) and sepsis and renal failure (multivariate analysis). COVID-19 infection was associated with respiratory complications (54.5 vs. 2.9%), surgical site infection (27.3 vs. 10.5%), postoperative transfusions (59.1 vs. 31.6%), renal failure (54.5 vs. 8.2%), sepsis (68.2 vs. 22.2%), reintervention (22.7 vs. 7.6%), readmission (18.2 vs. 4.1%), and death (27.3 vs. 5.8%) (p <0.05).ConclusionPostoperative morbidity and mortality in COVID-19 patients is high. Surgical procedures should be thoughtfully reviewed with a plan to minimize scheduled operations.

Is Obesity Associated with Higher Complication Rates in Total Hip Arthroplasty for High-Riding Dysplastic Hips?

Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is a disabling pathology leading to hip problems, such as painful arthritic hip, unstable hip, etc. Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is an effective treatment modality for this condition. Obesity has been shown to be associated with increased rates of complications following orthopaedic surgeries (Journal of Arthroplasty 20:46-50). The hypothesis of this study was that patients with a body mass index (BMI) greater than 30 (obese), who undergo total hip arthroplasty for dysplastic hip, are associated with longer operative and anaesthetic times, longer hospital stays and higher re-admission rates within 30days. All the cases of total hip arthroplasty in patients with high-riding dysplastic hips were reviewed. Evaluation was made of a total of 68 patients comprising 64 females and 4 males, classified into two groups. Patients with BMI < 30kg/m2 formed the non-obese group and patients with BMI ≥ 30kg/m2 the obese group. The mean age was 44.67 ± 6.49years. BMI was < 30 in 44 (64.7%) patients and > 30 in 24 (35.3%) patients. The data analysis showed that mean surgical time, anaesthesia duration and re-admission rate were significantly higher in the group with BMI ≥ 30(obese) as compared to the group with BMI < 30 (non-obese) (p < 0.01). The complication rate was determined to be higher in the obese group (p < 0.05). Obese patients performed with total hip arthroplasty for high-riding dysplastic hips had more complications and higher rates of re-admission to hospital compared with the non-obese patients.

The influence of diabetes on postoperative complications following colorectal surgery.

BackgroundDiabetes mellitus has been commonly associated with poor surgical outcomes. The aim of this meta-analysis was to assess the impact of diabetes on postoperative complications following colorectal surgery.MethodsMedline, Embase and China National Knowledge Infrastructure electronic databases were reviewed from inception until May 9th 2020. Meta-analysis of proportions and comparative meta-analysis were conducted. Studies that involved patients with diabetes mellitus having colorectal surgery, with the inclusion of patients without a history of diabetes as a control, were selected. The outcomes measured were postoperative complications.ResultsFifty-five studies with a total of 666,886 patients comprising 93,173 patients with diabetes and 573,713 patients without diabetes were included. Anastomotic leak (OR 2.407; 95% CI 1.837–3.155; p < 0.001), surgical site infections (OR 1.979; 95% CI 1.636–2.394; p < 0.001), urinary complications (OR 1.687; 95% CI 1.210–2.353; p = 0.002), and hospital readmissions (OR 1.406; 95% CI 1.349–1.466; p < 0.001) were found to be significantly higher amongst patients with diabetes following colorectal surgery. The incidence of septicemia, intra-abdominal infections, mechanical failure of wound healing comprising wound dehiscence and disruption, pulmonary complications, reoperation, and 30-day mortality were not significantly increased.ConclusionsThis meta-analysis and systematic review found a higher incidence of postoperative complications including anastomotic leaks and a higher re-admission rate. Risk profiling for diabetes prior to surgery and perioperative optimization for patients with diabetes is critical to improve surgical outcomes.Electronic supplementary materialThe online version of this article (10.1007/s10151-020-02373-9) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Robotic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass: surgical technique and short-term experience from 329 cases.

minimally invasive bariatric surgery is clearly superior over open procedures including better early outcomes. Different surgical approaches are used to treat the severely obese, having Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) being a highly frequent procedure. Robotic surgery overcomes some laparoscopic limitations adding ergonomics, articulating instruments and a three-dimensional high definition camera. Based on our vast robotic experience, we present our referred group case series and a standardized Robotic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (rRYGB) technique as well as its outcomes. a review of a prospective maintained database was conducted in patients submitted to robotic Roux en Y bariatric surgery between April 2015 and July 2019. Surgical technique is described and illustrated. We also reported patients demographics, outcomes and its follow-up. a Retrospective analysis identified 329 patients submitted to Robotic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. Both da Vinci Si and Xi platforms were used. Mean age was 34.4 years, with median BMI of 44.2 kg/m2. Mean console time was 102 min and there was no conversion. No surgical hospital readmission rates were seen in the first 30 days. this study represents our initial experience of robotic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (rRYGB), its short outcomes and a standardized surgical technique. Our results encourage that rRYGB is technically feasible and safe, and might offer some advantages showing good outcomes and minimal complications.

Defining the learning curve for robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy at a single center with an established laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy program

Presenter: Isabel DeLaura BS | Duke University Medical Center Background: Robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy (RPD) is a complex operation with a well-studied but inconsistent learning curve of approximately 30-250 cases. The learning curve for laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy (LPD) using a team approach at Duke University has previously been reported and defined as 50 cases to reach proficiency. This study aims to compare the experience building the laparoscopic and robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy programs and to determine whether the transition from LPD to RPD shortened the learning curve for RPD. Methods: LPD and RPD cases performed at Duke University Hospital were retrospectively analyzed. Continuous operative, pathologic, and perioperative metrics from LPD and RPD were compared with independent t-test or Wilcoxon rank sum test, while categorical variables used Fisher’s exact test. Learning curves were defined with respect to OR time using CUSUM analysis. Distinct phases on the CUSUM plots for LPD and RPD were determined at clear transitions in the slope of the CUSUM fitline. Results: Thirty-nine LPD and 69 RPD were included in our analysis. Three LPD and 0 RPD were converted to open. Introduction of LPD was completed first as a hybrid technique including laparoscopic resection and open reconstruction for 23 cases (excluded from this analysis), followed by total LPD. Based on operative time, LPD had an apparent bimodal or inverted learning curve likely accounting for proficiency attained from hybrid LPD and introduction of additional surgeons and trainees later in the experience. The learning curve for RPD had an accelerated early experience phase (case 1-10), a skill consolidation phase (case 11-40), followed by an improvement phase marked by reduction in operative time (case 41-69). Compared to LPD, RPD had a shorter operative time (median 379 vs 406 minutes, p<0.03), improved LN harvest (median 15 vs 19, p<0.02), and similar estimated blood loss (EBL) (median 250ml vs 400ml, p = 0.26) and R0 resection (83% vs 85%, p = 1.0). Additionally, RPD had improved LOS (median 7 days vs 9 days, p<0.002), and lower rates of surgical site infection (10% vs 38% p<0.001), abscess (7% vs 23%, p<0.04), and readmission (13% vs 33%, p<0.03). Conclusion: Adoption of LPD can be safely performed by surgeons with experience in complex laparoscopic procedures. The transition of a competent robotic surgeon from LPD to RPD is facilitated by prior familiarity with MIS approaches to pancreatic resection which result in an abbreviated learning curve. Adoption of robotics can improve surgical quality and perioperative outcomes including operative time, LN harvest, LOS, post-operative infection, and readmission. As exposure to robotics within General Surgery, Hepatopancreatobiliary, and Surgical Oncology training programs increase, surgical quality and patient outcomes will be further improved using RPD over LPD.

Surgical Site Infection, Readmission, and Reoperation After Posterior Long Segment Fusion.

Retrospective case series. We sought to identify risk factors associated with surgical site infection (SSI) after posterior long segment spinal fusion (PLSF). Patients who undergo PLSF may be at elevated risk of SSI. Identifying factors associated with SSI in these operations can help risk stratify patients and tailor management. We analyzed PLSFs-seven or more levels-at our institution from 2000 to 2015. Data on patients' clinical characteristics, procedural factors, and antimicrobial management were collected. Multivariable analysis identified factors independently associated with outcomes of interest. In 628 cases, SSI was associated with steroid use (P = 0.024, odds ratio [OR] = 2.54) and using cefazolin (P < 0.001, OR = 4.37) or bacitracin (P = 0.010, OR 3.49) irrigation, as opposed to gentamicin or other irrigation. Gram-positive infections were more likely with staged procedures (P = 0.021, OR 4.91) and bacitracin irrigation (P < 0.001, OR = 17.98), and less likely with vancomycin powder (P = 0.050, OR 0.20). Gram-negative infections were more likely with a history of peripheral arterial disease (P = 0.034, OR = 3.21) or cefazolin irrigation (P < 0.001, OR 25.47). Readmission was more likely after staged procedures (P = 0.003, OR = 3.31), cervical spine surgery (P = 0.023, OR = 2.28), or cefazolin irrigation (P = 0.039, OR = 1.85). Reoperation was more common with more comorbidities (P = 0.022, OR 1.09), staged procedures (P < 0.001, OR = 4.72), cervical surgeries (P = 0.013, OR = 2.36), more participants in the surgery (P = 0.011, OR = 1.06), using cefazolin (P < 0.001, OR = 3.12) or bacitracin (P = 0.009, OR = 3.15) irrigation, and higher erythrocyte sedimentation rate at readmission (P = 0.009, OR = 1.04). Washouts were more likely among patients with more comorbidities (P = 0.013, OR = 1.16), or who used steroids (P = 0.022, OR = 2.92), and less likely after cervical surgery (P = 0.028, OR = 0.24). Instrumentation removal was more common with bacitracin irrigation (p = 0.013, OR = 31.76). Patient factors, whether a procedure is staged, and choice of antibiotic irrigation affect the risk of SSI and ensuing management required.Level of Evidence: 4.

Influence of frailty in the outcome of surgical patients over 70 years old with admission criteria in ICU

IntroductionFrailty degree can influence more than age or severity in the outcome of patients older than 70 years undergoing surgery of the digestive system that require immediate postoperative control in the ICU. MethodsA prospective and observational study of patients over 70 years of age who were admitted to the surgical ICU of a third level hospital immediately after an elective or emergent surgical intervention on the digestive system from June 1, 2018 until June 1, 2019. The variables age, frailty Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS), and modified Frailty Index (mFI), severity (APACHE II), type of surgery, surgical pathology were recorded upon admission. A bivariate analysis was performed to assess the influence of frailty and severity on hospital morbidity and mortality and baseline situation of the patient (in terms of dependence) at 6 months. ResultsA total of 90 patients were recruited, 54.4% of whom were reoperated; 74.4% were initially discharged from the ICU, with 28.4% of readmission and directly associated to frailty (CFS and mFI: P<0.01). The overall mortality at 6 months was 44.5% being CFS (OR=64.3; P<0.05, 95% CI: 12.3–333.9) and APACHE II (OR=1.17; P<0.05; 95% CI: 1.04–1.32) the covariates that best related. ConclusionsThe estimation of frailty by CSF and mFI is directly associated to the surgical morbidity and readmission of elderly and severe patients admitted to the ICU. In addition, CFS and mFI has been efficient as a predictive of mortality at 6 months.

Fibrinolysis with Lower Dose Urokinase in Patients with Complicated Parapneumonic Effusion.

BackgroundIntrapleural urokinase is one of the most widely used fibrinolytic agents in the treatment of complicated parapneumonic effusion (CPPE). However, little research has been performed on the optimal urokinase dosage. The aim of this study was to evaluate the treatment efficacy of half dose urokinase compared with conventional dose urokinase.MethodsWe retrospectively enrolled 92 patients with CPPE or empyema who underwent intrapleural urokinase treatment at two tertiary hospitals. Patients received antibiotics, chest tube drainage, and other treatments as part of routine care. The primary outcome was the treatment success rate in the half dose urokinase group (50,000 IU daily for maximal 6 days) and the conventional dose urokinase group (100,000 IU daily). Treatment success was defined as clinical and radiological improvements without surgical treatment or re-admission within one month.ResultsForty-four patients received half dose urokinase, whereas 48 patients were treated with conventional dose urokinase. Both groups were relatively well matched at baseline, excluding higher serum white blood cell count and higher empyema prevalence in the half dose urokinase group. The treatment success rate was not different between the two groups (p=0.048). There were no differences in the rate of in-hospital death and surgical treatment, hospitalization duration, and indwelling catheter duration. In the multivariate analysis, urokinase dose was not a predictor of treatment success.ConclusionHalf dose intrapleural urokinase is equally effective conventional dose urokinase in treating patients with CPPE or empyema.

Utilizing time-driven activity-based costing to determine open radical cystectomy and ileal conduit surgical episode cost drivers

ObjectivesPatients undergoing radical cystectomy represent a particularly resource-intensive patient population. Time-driven activity based costing (TDABC) assigns time to events and then costs are based on the people involved in providing care for specific events. To determine the major cost drivers of radical cystectomy care we used a TDABC analysis for the cystectomy care pathway. Subjects and methodsWe retrospectively reviewed a random sample of 100 patients out of 717 eligible patients undergoing open radical cystectomy and ileal conduit for bladder cancer at our institution between 2012 and 2015. We defined the cycle of care as beginning at the preoperative clinic visit and ending with the 90-day postoperative clinic visit. TDABC was carried out with construction of detailed process maps. Capacity cost rates were calculated and the care cycle was divided into 3 phases: surgical, inpatient, and readmissions. Costs were normalized to the lowest cost driver within the cohort. ResultsThe mean length of stay was 6.9 days. Total inpatient care was the main driver of cost for radical cystectomy making up 32% of the total costs. Inpatient costs were mainly driven by inpatient staff care (76%). Readmissions were responsible for 29% of costs. Surgery was 31% of the costs, with the majority derived from operating room staff costs (65%). ConclusionThe major driver of cost in a radical cystectomy pathway is the inpatient stay, closely followed by operating room costs. Surgical costs, inpatient care and readmissions all remain significant sources of expense for cystectomy and efforts to reduce cystectomy costs should be focused in these areas.

Synthetic versus Biologic Mesh for Complex Open Ventral Hernia Repair: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial.

Background: Many surgeons utilize biologic mesh for elective complex ventral hernia repair (VHR; large hernias, contaminated fields, or patients with comorbid conditions). However, no randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have compared biologic and synthetic mesh. We hypothesize biologic mesh would result in fewer major complications at one-year post-operative compared with synthetic mesh. Patients and Methods: We performed a single-center, pilot RCT. All eligible patients undergoing complex, open VHR were randomly assigned to receive biologic or synthetic mesh placed in the retromuscular position. Primary outcome was major complications, namely, a composite of mesh infection, recurrence, or re-operation at one-year post-operative. Secondary outcomes included surgical site infections (SSI), seromas, hematomas, wound dehiscence, re-admissions, and Clavien-Dindo complication grade. Outcomes were assessed using Fisher exact test and Bayesian generalized linear models. Results: Of 87 patients, 44 were randomly assigned to biologic mesh and 43 to synthetic mesh. Most cases were wound class 2-4 (68%) and 75% had a hernia width >4 cm. Most patients were obese (70%) and had an American Society of Anesthesiogists (ASA) score of 3-4 (53%). Compared with patients in the synthetic mesh group, patients in the biologic mesh group had a higher percentage of: major complications at one-year post-operative (42.4% vs. 21.6%; relative risk [RR] = 1.96 [95% confidence interval {CI} = 0.94-4.08]; number needed to harm = 4.8; p = 0.071); SSI (15.9% vs. 9.3%; RR = 1.71 [95% CI = 0.54-5.42]; p = 0.362); wound dehiscence (25.0% vs. 14.0%; RR = 1.79 [95% CI = 0.73-4.41]; p = 0.205); and re-admissions (22.7% vs 9.3%; RR = 2.44 [95% CI = 0.83-7.20]; p = 0.105). Bayesian analysis demonstrated that compared with synthetic mesh, biologic mesh had a 95% probability of increased risk of major complications at one-year post-operative. No clear evidence of a difference was found on seromas, hematomas, or Clavien-Dindo complication grade. Conclusions: In elective complex open VHR, biologic mesh demonstrated no benefit compared with synthetic mesh in one-year outcomes. Moreover, Bayesian analysis suggests that biologic mesh may have an increased probability of major complications.

Are Elevated Nicotine and Cotinine Levels Associated with Early Femoral Component Subsidence in Press-Fit, Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty?

AbstractTobacco exposure negatively affects bone mineral density and early osseointegration of surgical implants. We sought to determine if elevated nicotine and/or cotinine levels prior to primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) are associated with early femoral component subsidence. We hypothesize that tobacco users will have higher rates of readmission/reoperation and increased radiographic subsidence. We conducted an institutional review of 75 patients (average age = 52.9 years; 55% females; body mass index = 31.3) who underwent THA from April 2017 to January 2018. Immediate postoperative radiographs were compared with those obtained at 2 to 6 weeks postoperatively to determine early femoral component subsidence. Of the 75 patients, 10 (13.3%) had early radiographic femoral component subsidence ≥ 2 mm. In this group, preoperative nicotine levels were significantly elevated (7.2 vs. 1.5ng/mL; p = 0.04), whereas preoperative cotinine levels did not statistically differ (108.3 vs. 33.8 ng/mL; p = 0.45). A significantly greater magnitude of subsidence was seen in those with elevated preoperative nicotine levels compared with those with normal levels (1.7 vs. 0.5 mm; p = 0.04). The mean time to radiographic follow-up was 2.6 weeks. Surgical approach, implant type, categorical variables, and patient readmission were not associated with ≥ 2 mm of early subsidence. There was a single reoperation for periprosthetic fracture, but none was related to instability from subsidence. Early femoral component subsidence was more prevalent in patients with elevated preoperative nicotine levels. Rates of readmission/reoperation at 90 days did not differ between those with and without elevated tobacco markers. Clinically relevant thresholds of preoperative nicotine and/or cotinine values are needed to better delineate appropriate surgical candidates to achieve optimal surgical outcomes.

Smoking as a risk factor for complications following arthroscopic rotator cuff repair.

BackgroundThe purpose of this study was to investigate the association between smoking status and postoperative complications within 30 days of arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR).MethodsThe American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database was queried to identify all patients who underwent ARCR from 2015 to 2017. Smokers were defined as patients who reported smoking cigarettes in the year prior to rotator cuff repair. Patients who used chewing tobacco, cigars, or electronic cigarettes were not included in the smoking cohort. Postoperative complications were reported within 30 days of the procedure. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to investigate the relationship between smoking status and postoperative complications.ResultsThere were 18,594 patients included in this study. Of these patients, 2834 (15.2%) were current smokers. Smokers were more likely to be men, to be aged < 65 years, and to have a body mass index < 30. Smokers were also more likely to have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, to be functionally dependent, and to have an American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) class ≥ 3. After adjustment for all significantly associated patient demographic characteristics and comorbidities, smoking was identified as a significant predictor of surgical complications (odds ratio [OR], 1.955; P = .022), return to the operating room (OR, 2.547; P = .003), readmission (OR, 1.570; P = .014), and sepsis or septic shock (OR, 4.737; P = .021). Smoking was not a significant predictor of medical complications (OR, 1.105; P = .687) or surgical-site infections (OR, 1.216; P = .713).ConclusionSmoking may be a risk factor for surgical complications, readmission, and sepsis or septic shock within 30 days of ARCR.

Outcomes of concomitant mesh placement and intestinal procedures during open ventral hernia repair.

The concept of mesh use during open ventral hernia repair with a concomitant intestinal procedure remains controversial and it remains unclear whether the SSI profile of contaminated fields in this setting more closely resembles clean-contaminated or dirty wounds. Patients who underwent an open ventral hernia repair and intestinal procedures were extracted from the ACS-NSQIP database. Data analysis was performed for mesh versus no mesh groups in aggregate and matched cohorts. The 30-day outcomes including mortality, morbidity, surgical site infections (SSI), readmission, reoperation, and length of stay were compared between the groups. Of 5104 patients in the mesh group, 3297 patients were matched 1:1 with patients without mesh. Mesh placement was associated with higher overall morbidity (35.1% vs. 29.8%; p < 0.001), overall SSI (27.1% vs. 18%; p < 0.001), deep SSI (5.9% vs. 4.3%; p = 0.003), organ-space SSI (6.8% vs. 5.5%; p = 0.027), reoperation (9.9% vs. 8.2%; p = 0.016), readmission (16.7% vs. 12.7%; p < 0.001), and longer hospital stays (10.9 ± 15.2 vs. 9.7 ± 10.7; p < 0.001). When mesh was used, the SSI profile of contaminated fields was similar to dirty wounds (26.4% vs. 27.5%; p = 0.702), rather than clean-contaminated fields (26.4% vs. 19.2%; p < 0.001). Concomitant bowel procedure and mesh placement at the time of open ventral hernia repair was associated with worse outcomes. The SSI profile of the contaminated fields was more similar to dirty wounds. When deciding whether to place mesh during ventral hernia repairs with concomitant bowel procedures, strong consideration should be given to the increased risk of short-term complications versus the potential long-term benefits.

NCOG-54. SAFETY OF TRANSSPHENOIDAL SURGERY FOR NONFUNCTIONING PITUITARY ADENOMA IN ELDERLY PATIENTS

Abstract INTRODUCTION Life expectancy has increased over the past century, shifting the demographic distribution towards older age groups. Elderly patients comprise up to 14% of patients with pituitary tumors, with most lesions being nonfunctioning adenomas (NFPAs). Here, we compare clinical and surgical outcomes and post-operative complications between non-elderly adult (age ≥ 18 years and ≤ 65 years) and elderly (age &amp;gt; 65 years) NFPA patients. METHODS Retrospective review of 908 patients undergoing transsphenoidal surgery for NFPA at a single institution from 2007-2019. RESULTS Elderly patients represented 32.4% of patients. Both groups were similar in gender (57.3% vs 60.5% male;P=0.4), tumor size (2.56 vs 2.46 cm;P=0.2), and cavernous sinus invasion (35.8% vs 33.7%;P=0.6). Regarding post-operative outcomes, length of stay (1 vs 2 days; P=0.5), extent of resection (59.8% vs 64.8% GTR;P=0.2), CSF leak requiring surgical revision (4.3% vs 1.4%;P=0.06), 30-day readmission (8.1% vs 7.3%;P=0.7), infection (3.1% vs 2.0%;P=0.5), and new hypopituitarism (13.9% vs 12.0%;P=0.3) were similar between both groups. Elderly patients were less likely to have adjuvant radiation (8.7% vs 16.3%;P=0.009), future re-operation (3.8% vs 9.5%;P=0.003), and post-operative diabetes insipidus (DI) (3.7% vs 9.4%;P=0.002), and more likely to have post-operative hyponatremia (26.7% vs 16.4%;P&amp;lt; 0.001) and new cranial nerve deficit (1.9% vs 0.0%;P=0.01). Elderly patients’ post-operative sodium peaked and troughed on POD3 (mean=138.7 mEq/L) and POD9 (mean=130.8 mEq/L), respectively, compared to non-elderly patients (peak POD2 mean=139.9 mEq/L, trough POD8 mean=131.3 mEq/L). CONCLUSION Our analysis revealed that elderly patients experienced more post-operative hyponatremia, while non-elderly patients experienced more post-operative DI. Elderly patients also experience later peak and trough in serum sodium, suggesting age-related differences in stalk-related morbidities of NFPA resection. Overall, our results show that transsphenoidal surgery for NFPA in elderly patients is safe with low complication rates. We hope our results will guide discussions with elderly patients regarding possible risks and outcomes.

Predictors of surgical readmission, unplanned hospitalization and emergency department use in head and neck oncology: A systematic review.

To identify predictors of unplanned hospitalization and emergency department (ED) use among head and neck oncology patients. Peer reviewed publications were identified through a systematic search of MEDLINE, Embase and Cochrane CENTRAL. Studies describing a cohort of HNC patients that detailed predictors of unplanned hospitalization or ED use in risk-adjusted models were eligible for inclusion. The methodologic quality of included studies was assessed using the Quality In Prognostic Studies (QUIPS) tool and an adapted version of the GRADE framework. Of the 932 articles identified, 39 studies met our inclusion criteria with 31/39 describing predictors of surgical readmission and 10/39 describing predictors of ED use or unplanned hospitalization during radiation/chemoradiation treatment. Risk factors were classified into either 'patient-related', 'cancer severity' or 'process' factors. In the subset of studies looking at readmission following surgery wound complications (10/14 studies), presence of comorbidity (16/28 studies), low socioeconomic status (8/17 studies), cancer stage (9/14 studies), and prolonged hospital stay (7/18 studies) were the variables most frequently associated with readmission on multivariable analysis. Presence of comorbidity (6/10) and chemotherapy use (4/10) were more frequently associated with ED use and unplanned hospitalization. Several consistent predictors have been identified across a variety of studies. This work is a critical first step towards the development of readmission and ED prediction models. It also enables meaningful comparison of hospital readmission rates with risk adjustment in HNC patients.

Effects of Pharmacologic Venous Thromboembolism (VTE) Prophylaxis in Benign Minimally Invasive Hysterectomy

Study Objective To evaluate if the addition of pharmacologic prophylaxis (heparin, low molecular weight heparin) for VTE is associated with adverse perioperative outcomes in minimally invasive surgery (MIS) hysterectomy for benign indications compared to mechanical prophylaxis alone. Design Retrospective cohort study. Setting Michigan Surgical Quality Collaborative (MSQC). Patients or Participants Patients who underwent a benign MIS hysterectomy (i.e. laparoscopic, vaginal, laparoscopic-assisted vaginal, or robotic-assisted laparoscopy) performed between July 2012 and June 2015 and received mechanical prophylaxis for thromboembolism. Interventions Patients were divided into cohorts who received mechanical prophylaxis alone (MPpx) or mechanical + pharmacologic prophylaxis (M+Pppx). Propensity score matching was used to minimize confounding due to differences in age, race, body mass index>40, hypertension, congestive heart failure, smoking, functional status, preoperative transfusion, preoperative anemia or thrombocytopenia, length of stay, and hospital teaching status. Outcomes evaluated in the propensity-matched cohorts were estimated blood loss, intraoperative time, postoperative blood transfusion, postoperative VTE, surgical site infection, reoperation, and readmission. Measurements and Main Results There were 1944 matched pairs of patients in the Mppx and M+Pppx cohorts. Intraoperative time was 21 minutes longer (168 minutes ± 63 min vs 189 ± 75 mins, p Conclusion Further research is needed into the addition of pharmacologicprophylaxis to mechanical prophylaxis and its association with longer operative time for benign minimally invasive hysterectomy. Given extremely low rates of VTE in both groups and no difference detected in other significant peri-operative outcomes using a large database, it seems reasonable to question routine use of pharmacologic prophylaxis in these patients.

Nutritional status and outcome of surgery: A prospective observational cohort study of children at a tertiary surgical hospital in Harare, Zimbabwe

BackgroundUndernutrition contributes to nearly 50% of all child deaths in the world, yet there is conflicting evidence regarding the association between nutritional status and postoperative complications. The aim was to describe the preoperative nutritional status among pediatric surgery patients in Zimbabwe, and to assess if nutritional status was a risk factor for adverse postoperative outcome of mortality, surgical site infection, reoperation, readmission, and longer length of stay. MethodsThis prospective observational cohort study included 136 children undergoing surgery at a tertiary pediatric hospital in Zimbabwe. Nutritional status was standardized using Z-scores for BMI, length, weight, and middle upper arm circumference. Primary outcomes after 30 days included mortality, surgical site infection, reoperation, and readmission. Secondary outcome was length of stay. Univariate and multivariable analyses with logistic regression were performed. ResultsOf the 136 patients, 31% were undernourished. Postoperative adverse outcome occurred in 20%; the mortality rate was 6%, the surgical site infection rate was 17%, the reoperation rate was 3.5%, and readmission rate was 2.5%. Nutritional status, higher ASA classification, major surgical procedures, and lower preoperative hemoglobin levels were associated with adverse outcome. Univariate logistic regression identified a seven-fold increased risk of postoperative complications among undernourished children (OR 7.3 [2.3–22.8], p = 0.001), and there was a four- to six-fold increased adjusted risk after adjustment for ASA, major surgery, and preoperative hemoglobin. ConclusionA third of all pediatric surgery patients were undernourished, and undernourished children had a considerably higher risk of adverse outcome. With a positive correlation identified between undernourishment and increased postoperative complications, future aims would include assessing if preoperative nutritional treatment could be especially beneficial for undernourished children. Levels of EvidenceLevel II treatment study.

S0235 Effect of Chronic Kidney Disease on Short-Term Morbidity and Mortality in Patients With Colon Ischemia

INTRODUCTION: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end-stage renal disease (ESRD) are recognized independent risk factors of colectomy, recurrence, sepsis, and mortality in patients with colon ischemia (CI). Previous research has been limited by small numbers of study patients and lack of data on comorbidities and analyses by stages of CKD. Using a large database of CI patients, we aimed to determine the impact of CKD by stage on short-term morbidity (hospitalization stay, surgical intervention, and 30-day readmission) and short-term mortality (30-day and 90-day mortality) to improve clinical insights in treating CI. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective study using a database of hospitalized patients with CI at Montefiore Medical Center and Yale-New Haven Hospital from 2012 to 2018. Consecutive patients with biopsy-proven CI were identified and included if CKD data were available. Patients were categorized into five CKD stages (CKD 1, Glomerular Filtration Rate [GFR] ≥90 ml/min; CKD 2, GFR 60–90 ml/min; CKD 3, GFR 30–60 ml/min; CKD 4, GFR 30–15 ml/min; and CKD 5, GFR < 15 ml/min). Bivariate, multivariate, and survival analyses assessed potential predictors of morbidity and mortality. RESULTS: 650 patients met inclusion criteria (Table 1). In Table 2, CKD 5 had the longest hospitalization stay (median 9 days, IQR 4–32, P < 0.001) and the highest incidence of surgical intervention (30.8%, P < 0.01) and 30-day readmission (32.5%, P < 0.001) compared to other CKD stages. In multivariate analyses: CKD overall (P = 0.01) and peripheral vascular disease (PVD; OR = 3.05, P < 0.01) independently predicted surgical intervention. CKD overall (P = 0.001), coronary artery disease (OR = 2.33, P < 0.001) and PVD (OR = 2.54, P = 0.02) independently predicted readmission. Male sex (OR = 3.43, P < 0.01), PVD (OR = 3.18, P = 0.04), and surgical intervention (OR = 6.53, P < 0.001) independently predicted 30-day mortality. In a survival analysis, male sex (HR = 2.15, P = 0.01) and surgical intervention (HR = 3.04, P < 0.001) predicted 90-day mortality. CKD overall did not predict 30-day or 90-day mortality in multivariate analyses (Figure 1). CONCLUSION: In CI patients, CKD overall predicted short-term morbidity, namely surgical intervention and 30-day readmission, but did not predict short-term mortality independent of other patient characteristics. CKD 5 had the worst outcomes overall, although there was no stepwise increase in adverse outcomes by increasing CKD stage.Table 1.: Patient CharacteristicsTable 2.: Outcomes by CKD StageFigure 1.: Kaplan-Meier survival curves comparing CKD stages.

Improved Postoperative Outcomes By Utilizing A Comprehensive Perioperative Surgical Site Infection (SSI) Reduction Bundle

Background: Surgical site infections (SSIs) can be attributed to increased patient morbidity and mortality, prolonged hospital stays, and overall increased healthcare costs. The Surgical Care Improvement Project (SCIP) was implemented in 2002 but has made limited impact on SSI rates across our facilities, which has led to the creation of a bundled approach of current evidence-based strategies. Methods: In January 2019, a comprehensive SSI prevention bundle of strategies was implemented across a multihospital health system. The bundle was comprised of 8 interventions focusing on the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative continuum of care, and refining documentation in the electronic medical record. From January to September 2019 (preointervention period), data were collected from 7,163 adult inpatient and observation elective patients undergoing colon surgery (COLO), abdominal hysterectomy (HYST), hip arthroplasty (HPRO), knee arthroplasty (KPRO), and cardiac bypass graft (CBGB/CBGC). The preintervention period for SSI standardized infection ratios (SIRs) and retrospective review of process measures was set as January–December 2018 (postintervetnion period). Each process measure had outlined targets along with primary outcome measures of overall SSI SIRs and SIRs for each of the 5 reported procedure categories. SSIs were validated to meet CDC and NHSN surveillance case definitions. Secondary outcomes evaluated included length of stay (LOS), readmission rates, and mortality. Results: Overall SIR for all 5 monitored surgical categories decreased by 5% to 1.131 from January to September 2019, compared to SIR of 1.190 in 2018. Hip and knee arthroplasties demonstrated 40% and 38% reductions after the intervention, respectively. Completion of 7 or 8 interventions of the SSI bundle were correlated with lower readmission rates (P = .0488). When any portion of the bundle was used, this was correlated with shorter LOS (P &lt; .0001). Adherence to standardized antimicrobial prophylaxis was associated with decreased mortality (P = .017), for all 5 surgical categories. Conclusions: With the implementation of a focused SSI reduction bundle, our institution has realized reductions in surgical readmissions, length of stay, and mortality. Additionally, SSI rates in certain procedure categories have shown marked improvement. The initial success of this bundle has garnered development of additional procedure focused supplemental strategies for the future year.Funding: NoneDisclosures: Aarikha D’Souza, Banner Health