The study authors used the 2014 Nationwide Readmission Database to examine data for elective, inpatient, primary lumbar spine surgery patients. There were 169,788 patients included in the analysis. Four key findings:
1. The 90-day readmission rate was 2.5 percent, with 4,268 patients reporting readmissions.
2. Comorbidities were similar between the patients who were readmitted and the patients who were not.
3. The factors that increased 90-day readmission risk were:
• Anemia
• Diabetes
• Surgical wound disruption
• Acute myocardial infarction
Self-pay patients and patients who underwent an anterior surgical approach were also at a higher risk of readmission.
4. The most common cause of readmission was implant complications, and the readmissions significantly increased cost per case.
More articles on spine surgery:
Neurosurgery tops list of high-earning physician specialties
Dr. Raj Narayan: 3D printing concerns and strategies to achieve value in spine
Dr. Ghassan Bejjani becomes 1st chief of Penn Highlands neurosurgery department
At the Becker's 23rd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference, taking place June 11-13 in Chicago, spine surgeons, orthopedic leaders and ASC executives will come together to explore minimally invasive techniques, ASC growth strategies and innovations shaping the future of outpatient spine care. Apply for complimentary registration now.
