Researchers analyzed data from the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project Nationwide Inpatient Sample from 1998-2009, and found:
• Spinal fusion discharges increased by 137 percent (from 174,223 to 413,171)
• Laminectomy discharges increased 11.3 percent
• Hip replacement discharges increased 49.1 percent
• Knee arthroplasty discharges increased 126.8 percent
• Percutaneous coronary discharges angioplasty increased 38.8 percent
• Coronary artery bypass graft discharges decreased by 40.1 percent
The analysis also reported the average age for spinal fusions increased from 48.8 to 54.2 years during that period. In-hospital mortality rate decreased from 0.29 percent to 0.25 percent. The average total hospital charges for spinal fusion increased 3.3-fold while the national bill for spinal fusions increased 7.9 fold from 1998-2008.
Sign up for our FREE Spine E-Weekly for more coverage like this sent to your inbox!
Related Articles on Spine Surgery:
5 Things to Know About Artificial Disc Replacement
Spine Surgeons: What is the Most Important Thing Legislators Can Do Right Now
21 Benchmarks for Spine & Neurosurgeon Compensation by Location
At the Becker’s 32nd Annual Meeting: The Business and Operations of ASCs, taking place October 29-31 in Chicago, ASC leaders, surgeons and healthcare executives will explore strategies to drive growth, enhance operational performance, navigate reimbursement challenges and prepare for the future of ambulatory surgery. Apply for complimentary registration now.