Independent predictors and timing of portomesenteric vein thrombosis after bariatric surgery

BackgroundPortomesenteric vein thrombosis (PVT) is a rare complication following bariatric surgery but can result in severe morbidity as well as death.ObjectiveIdentification of risk factors for PVT to facilitate targeted management strategies to reduce incidence.SettingProspective, statewide bariatric-specific clinical registry.MethodsWe identified all patients who underwent primary bariatric surgery between June 2006 and November 2021 (n = 102,869). Patient characteristics, procedure type, operative details, and 30-day postoperative complications were analyzed with multivariable logistic regression to evaluate for independent predictors of PVT.ResultsA total of 117 patients (.11%) developed a postoperative PVT, with 6 (5.1%) associated deaths. The majority of PVTs occurred in patients who underwent sleeve gastrectomy (109 patients; 93.2%), and the PVT occurred most commonly during the second (37%), third (31%), and fourth weeks (23%) after surgery. Independent risk factors for PVT included a prior history of venous thromboembolism (odds ratio [OR] = 3.1; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.64–5.98; P = .0005), liver disorder (OR = 2.3; 95% CI: 1.36–4.00; P = .0021), undergoing sleeve gastrectomy (OR = 12.4; 95% CI: 4.98–30.69; P < .0001), and postoperative complications including obstruction (OR = 12.5; 95% CI: 4.65–33.77; P < .0001), leak (OR = 7.9; 95% CI: 2.76–22.64; P = .0001), and hemorrhage (OR = 7.6; 95% CI: 3.57–16.06; P < .0001).ConclusionsIndependent predictors of PVT include a prior history of venous thromboembolism, liver disease, undergoing sleeve gastrectomy, and experiencing a serious postoperative complication. Given that the incidence of PVT is most common within the first month after surgery, extending postdischarge chemoprophylaxis during this time frame is advised for patients with increased risk.     

Practice patterns regarding post-discharge chemoprophylaxis for venous thromboembolism following bariatric surgery in the United States

BackgroundThere is no consensus regarding the optimal venous thromboembolism (VTE) prevention strategy following bariatric surgery. Post-discharge chemoprophylaxis is frequently recommended for high-risk patients with little supporting data.ObjectivesTo define practices related to post-discharge chemoprophylaxis in the United States.SettingUnited States.MethodsFrom the Truven Health MarketScan Research database we identified patients age 18 to 64 years undergoing laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy and gastric bypass (2009–2015). Use of post-discharge low-molecular-weight or unfractionated heparin, vitamin K antagonists, Factor Xa inhibitors, or direct thrombin inhibitors was determined, as was the occurrence of VTE events from discharge to 90 days. Patients with VTE during the index admission were excluded to focus on chemoprophylaxis after discharge (versus treatment). Multivariate logistic regression was used to evaluate the association between VTE and anticoagulant usage.ResultsOf 105,246 patients, .8% with VTE prior to discharge were excluded. The study cohort was 78.1% female, with a median age of 44 years. Hypercoagulable disorder was present in .9%. Post-discharge chemoprophylaxis rates were 11.3% and varied from state to state (.5%–37.4%). VTE rates varied from state to state (.4%–2.6%). VTE after discharge occurred in 1.3%. On multivariate analysis, hypercoagulable disorder (odds ratio [OR] 14.0; 95% confidence interval [CI] 11.6–16.9, P < .001), age ≥60 years (OR 2.3; 95% CI 1.0-5.3; P = .047), and male sex (female OR .8; 95% CI .7–.9, P < .001) increased the risk for VTE. Post-discharge chemoprophylaxis was associated with increased VTE risk (OR 2.1; 95% CI 1.8–2.4; P < .001).ConclusionsPost-discharge chemoprophylaxis following laparoscopic bariatric surgery is employed in 11.3% of patients. Variation in VTE rates and prophylaxis strategies exist nationally.     

Preexisting morbidity as an independent risk factor for perioperative acute thromboembolism syndrome

HYPOTHESIS: Preexisting morbidities are risk factors for perioperative arterial or venous thromboembolic events and subsequent death within 30 postoperative days. DESIGN: Prospective cohort study. SETTING: University-affiliated general hospital. PATIENTS: A total of 21,903 surgery patients treated from January 1, 1991, through December 31, 2002. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Independent risk factors for perioperative arterial or venous thromboembolic events. RESULTS: History of atrial fibrillation and coronary artery disease increased the risk of myocardial infarction (odds ratio [95% confidence interval], 4.3 [2.8-6.7]). History of stroke increased the risk of stroke (2.4 [1.4-4.1]) and death (4.7 [1.3-17.3]). Diabetes mellitus increased the risk of myocardial infarction (2.1 [1.3-3.2]), and hyperuricemia increased the risk of stroke (3.5 [1.2-9.8]), and both increased the risk of death (4.3 [1.3-14.1] and 11.8 [2.2-63.5], respectively). History of myocardial infarction increased the risk of deep vein thrombosis (7.7 [1.7-34.7]). Cancer increased the risk of all thromboembolism (2.4 [1.9-3.2]). Trend analysis showed that preexisting morbidities will increase 1.5-fold and thromboembolic events will increase 3-fold during the next decade. CONCLUSION: Cardiac and cerebrovascular diseases, metabolic diseases, and cancer are becoming increasingly high-risk comorbidities for perioperative acute thromboembolism syndrome.     

Non-Inferiority of Aspirin for Venous Thromboembolism Prophylaxis After Hip Arthroplasty in a Statewide Registry

BackgroundUncertainty remains surrounding the use of aspirin as a sole chemoprophylactic agent to reduce the risk of venous thromboembolism (deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism) and bleeding after primary total hip arthroplasty.MethodsWe performed a non-inferiority analysis of a retrospective cohort of patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty from April 1, 2013 to December 31, 2018. Cases were retrieved from the Michigan Arthroplasty Registry Collaborative Quality Initiative database and performed by 355 surgeons at 61 hospitals throughout Michigan. Surgical setting ranged from small community hospitals to large academic and non-academic centers. The primary outcomes were post-operative venous thromboembolism event or death and bleeding event.ResultsOf the 59,747 patients included, 32,878 (55.03%) were female, and the mean age was 64.5. A total of 462 (0.77%) composite venous thromboembolism events occurred. There were 221 (0.71%) and 129 (0.80%) venous thromboembolism events in patients receiving aspirin only and anticoagulants only, respectively. Aspirin was non-inferior to anticoagulants for composite venous thromboembolism events (odds ratio 0.99, 95% confidence interval 0.79-1.26, P < .001). Bleeding events occurred in 767 (1.28%) patients, with 304 (0.97%) and 281 (1.74%) bleeding events in patients receiving aspirin only and anticoagulants only, respectively. Aspirin was non-inferior to anticoagulants for bleeding events (odds ratio 0.62, 95% confidence interval 0.52-0.74, P < .001).ConclusionAspirin is not inferior to other anticoagulants as pharmacologic venous thromboembolism prophylaxis with regards to post-operative risk of venous thromboembolism or bleeding. Sole use of aspirin for venous thromboembolism prophylaxis after total hip arthroplasty should be considered in the appropriate patient.     

Host-related factors for venous thromboembolism following total joint replacement: A meta-analysis of 89 observational studies involving over 14 million hip and knee replacements

BackgroundVenous thromboembolism, a potential complication of total joint replacement, is associated with preventable mortality and morbidity and is likely to be influenced by host-related factors such as sociodemographic characteristics, body mass index, medical and surgical histories, as well as circulating biomarkers. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the associations between host-related factors and venous thromboembolism risk following total hip and knee replacements.MethodsWe searched MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library to March 2018 for longitudinal studies reporting these associations. Summary measures of association were relative risks (95% confidence intervals).ResultsWe identified 89 studies with data on 14,763,963 joint replacements and 150,086 venous thromboembolism events. Comparing males to females, age ≥70 to <70 years, and blacks to whites, relative risks for venous thromboembolism were 0.83 (0.75–0.91), 1.24 (1.03–1.50), and 1.26 (1.20–1.31) respectively. Comparing body mass indices ≥25 vs. <25; ≥30 vs. <30; and ≥50 vs. <50 kg/m², relative risks were 1.40 (1.24–1.57); 1.65 (1.23–2.22); and 1.72 (1.10–2.67) respectively. Histories of venous thromboembolism; cardiovascular disease; congestive heart failure; cardiac arrhythmia; chronic pulmonary disease; renal disease; neurological disease; fluid & electrolyte imbalance; bariatric surgery; and comorbidity indices were associated with increased venous thromboembolism risk. Comparing a total knee with a hip replacement, the relative risk for venous thromboembolism was 1.69 (1.32–2.15).ConclusionsEnhanced venous thromboembolism prophylaxis should be considered in those with nonmodifiable risk factors such as older black female knee replacement patients. Modifiable risk factors such as high body mass index and fluid & electrolyte imbalance should be addressed prior to elective surgery.Systematic review registrationPROSPERO 2018: CRD42018089625.     

Trends in mortality,readmissions, and complications after endovascular and open infrainguinal revascularization

BackgroundAlthough short-term outcomes of endovascular and open infrainguinal revascularization in patients with peripheral arterial disease have been previously reported, 30-day readmission and resource utilization after these procedures remain unknown.MethodsWe used the 2010–2014 Nationwide Readmissions Database and the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Edition, to identify patients with peripheral arterial disease undergoing either in-hospital endovascular or open infrainguinal revascularization.ResultsOf an estimated 574,201 hospitalized patients treated for peripheral arterial disease, 308,056 and 266,145 underwent lower limb endovascular and open infrainguinal revascularization, respectively. Compared with patients who underwent open revascularization, endovascular patients were more commonly female (44.8% vs 36.7%, P < .001) and older (69.5 vs 67.2 years, P < .001). Moreover, they had higher rates of 30-day readmission (15.6% vs 13.5%, P < .001), in-hospital complications (22.3% vs 20.9%, P < .001), and in-hospital index mortality (2.1% vs 1.8%, P < .001). In contrast, risk-adjusted multivariable analysis found open revascularization to be independently associated with increased odds of 30-day readmission (odds ratio, 1.13; 95% confidence interval 1.10–1.16), index complications (odds ratio, 1.23; 95% confidence interval 1.20–1.27), and mortality (odds ratio, 1.26; 95% confidence interval 1.16–1.36) compared with those who underwent endovascular revascularization. Trend analysis revealed an overall decrease in the utilization of both endovascular and open revascularization procedures in the inpatient setting.ConclusionDespite lower rates of adverse events compared to endovascular, open infrainguinal revascularization is independently associated with increased risk of short-term readmission, complications, and mortality. These findings should be considered in the selection of appropriate surgical therapy for lower extremity arterial occlusive disease.     

Highlighting the Roles of Anemia and Aspirin in Predicting Ninety-Day Readmission Following Aseptic Revision Total Joint Arthroplasty

BackgroundRevision total joint arthroplasties (TJAs) are associated with an increased rate of complications. To date, it is unclear what drives readmission after aseptic revision arthroplasty and what measures can be taken to possibly avoid them. The purpose of this study is to (1) determine the reasons for readmission after aseptic revision TJA and (2) identify patient-specific or postoperative risk factors through a multivariate analysis.MethodsA retrospective study examined 1503 cases of aseptic revision TJA between 2009 and 2016 at an urban tertiary care hospital. Eighty-seven cases (5.8%) of readmission within 90 days of index surgery were identified. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were performed to assess independent risk factors for readmission.ResultsThe reasons for readmission were infection (38%), wound complications (22%), and dislocation/instability of the prosthetic joint (13%). Only preoperative anemia was associated with an increased odds ratio (OR) of readmission (OR 1.82, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.126-2.970, P = .015), whereas postoperative venous thromboembolism prophylaxis with aspirin (OR 0.58, 90% CI 0.340-0.974, P = .039) and discharge to an inpatient rehab facility (OR 0.22, 95% CI 0.051-0.950, P = .042) were associated with significantly lower odds of readmission.ConclusionBased on this single institutional study, addressing preoperative anemia and considering the implementation of aspirin for venous thromboembolism prophylaxis may be 2 targets to potentially reduce readmission after aseptic revision TJA.     

Method of venous thromboembolism prophylaxis is not a predictor of pulmonary embolus following elective bariatric surgery: a retrospective cohort study of 135,409 patients

BackgroundPatients with obesity are at increased risk of pulmonary embolus (PE), a risk that increases perioperatively and is challenging to manage.ObjectiveAn analysis of the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) database was performed to determine predictors of PE in patients undergoing elective bariatric surgery.SettingNorth American accredited bariatric surgery institutions included in the MBSAQIP database from 2020–2021.MethodsWe extracted data from the MBSAQIP database (2020–2021) on patients who underwent elective Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) or sleeve gastrectomy (SG). Data were extracted on patient co-morbidities, race, prior history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and type of DVT prophylaxis. A multivariate logistic regression model was developed to determine predictors of PE and impact of PE on 30-day serious complications and mortality.ResultsIn the MBSAQIP database, a total of 135,409 patients underwent SG or RYGB from 2020 to 2021. PE was reported in 194 patients (.14%). Prior history of DVT (odds ratio [OR] = 3.28; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.85–5.83; P < .0001), Black race (OR = 3.03; 95% CI: 2.22–4.13; P < .0001), gastroesophageal reflux disease (OR = 1.51; 95% CI: 1.11–2.04; P = .008), higher body mass index (OR = 1.11; 95% CI: 1.01–1.20; P = .023), male sex (OR = 1.76; 95% CI: 1.26–2.45; P = .001), and older age (OR = 1.27; 95% CI: 1.10–1.46; P = .001) were associated with increased odds of PE. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, sleep apnea, and hypertension were not significant predictors of PE (P > .05). Neither combined mechanical and pharmacologic DVT prophylaxis nor pharmacologic prophylaxis alone was a significant predictor of PE (P > .05).ConclusionPrior history of DVT is the strongest predictor of PE after bariatric surgery. African American race, male sex, and gastroesophageal reflux disease are additional risk factors. Method of venous thromboembolism prophylaxis was not identified as significant predictor of PE. Further, studies on the evaluation and optimization of venous thromboembolism prophylaxis are required.     

Enoxaparin Versus Direct Oral Anticoagulants for Venous Thromboembolism in Asians Undergoing Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review

BackgroundThe introduction of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) shows promise for their role as a chemoprophylaxis agent after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) for the prevention of venous thromboembolism (VTE). However, existing studies are largely based on Western populations that do not account for the different risk profiles and lower rates of VTE in Asians. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy of DOACs compared with enoxaparin in an Asian-based population study.MethodsThe review was conducted in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. All studies that compared outcomes between enoxaparin and DOACs as VTE prophylaxis after TKA in the Asian population were included.ResultsFive studies with 121,153 patients were included. DOACs demonstrated a convincing benefit over enoxaparin in overall VTE prevention (odds ratio [OR] = 0.42, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.24-0.74). However, although the OR trended in favor of DOACs for the reduction of deep vein thrombosis events (OR = 0.54, 95% CI: 0.20-1.48) and pulmonary embolism (OR = 0.75, 95% CI: 0.07-8.20), statistical significance was not reached. In terms of bleeding complications, both arms had similar rates of major (0.91% vs 0.20%), clinically relevant nonmajor (3.28% vs 2.94%), and minor bleeding complications (12.8 vs 13.3%). A nonsignificance advantage of enoxaparin over DOACs was revealed in the OR for major bleeding (OR = 3.17; 95% CI: 0.81-12.43), whereas DOACs were favored to reduce risk of clinically relevant nonmajor (OR = 0.82; 95% CI: 0.01-91.51) and minor bleeding (OR = 0.76; 95% CI: 0.11-5.33).ConclusionDOACs confer a significantly reduced rate of overall VTE compared with enoxaparin in Asians after TKA. No significant differences in deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, and rates of bleeding complications exist.     

Chemoprophylaxis for venous thromboembolism in pelvic and/or acetabular fractures: A systematic review

BackgroundIt is unclear which pharmacological agents, and at what dosage and timing, are most effective for venous thromboembolism (VTE) prophylaxis in patients with pelvic/acetabular fractures.MethodsWe searched the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Embase, Web of Science, EBSCO, and PubMed on October 3, 2020, for English-language studies of VTE prophylaxis in patients with pelvic/acetabular fractures. We applied no date limits. We included studies that compared efficacy of pharmacological agents for VTE prophylaxis, timing of administration of such agents, and/or dosage of such agents. We recorded interventions, sample sizes, and VTE incidence, including deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism.ResultsTwo studies (3604 patients) compared pharmacological agents, reporting that patients who received direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) were less likely to develop DVT than those who received low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) (p < 0.01). Compared with unfractionated heparin (UH), LMWH was associated with lower odds of VTE (odds ratio [OR] = 0.37, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.22–0.63) and death (OR = 0.27, 95% CI: 0.10–0.72). Three studies (3107 patients) compared timing of VTE prophylaxis, reporting that late prophylaxis was associated with higher odds of VTE (OR = 1.9, 95% CI: 1.2–3.2) and death (OR = 4.0, 95% CI: 1.5–11) and higher rates of symptomatic DVT (9.2% vs. 2.5%, p = 0.03; and 22% vs. 3.1%, p = 0.01). One study (31 patients) investigated dosage of VTE prophylaxis, reporting that a higher proportion of patients with acetabular fractures were underdosed (23% of patients below range of anti–Factor Xa [aFXa] had acetabular fractures vs. 4.8% of patients within adequate range of aFXa, p<0.01).Conclusions: Early VTE chemoprophylaxis (within 24 or 48 h after injury) was better than late administration in terms of VTE and death. Many patients with acetabular fractures are underdosed with LMWH, with inadequate aFXa levels. Compared with UH, LMWH was associated with lower odds of VTE and death. DOACs were associated with lower risk of DVT compared with LMWH.Level of Evidence: III, systematic review of retrospective cohort studies.     

Undertreatment of primary hyperparathyroidism in a privately insured US population: Decreasing utilization of parathyroidectomy despite expanding surgical guidelines

BackgroundPrimary hyperparathyroidism is associated with substantial morbidity, including osteoporosis, nephrolithiasis, and chronic kidney disease. Parathyroidectomy can prevent these sequelae but is poorly utilized in many practice settings.MethodsWe performed a retrospective cohort study using the national Optum de-identified Clinformatics Data Mart Database. We identified patients aged ≥35 with a first observed primary hyperparathyroidism diagnosis from 2004 to 2016. Multivariable logistic regression was used to determine patient/provider characteristics associated with parathyroidectomy.ResultsOf 26,522 patients with primary hyperparathyroidism, 10,101 (38.1%) underwent parathyroidectomy. Of the 14,896 patients with any operative indication, 5,791 (38.9%) underwent parathyroidectomy. Over time, there was a decreasing trend in the rate of parathyroidectomy overall (2004: 54.4% to 2016: 32.4%, P < .001) and among groups with and without an operative indication. On multivariable analysis, increasing age and comorbidities were strongly, inversely associated with parathyroidectomy (age 75–84, odds ratio 0.50 [95% confidence interval 0.45–0.55]; age ≥85, odds ratio 0.21 [95% confidence interval 0.17–0.26] vs age 35–49; Charlson Comorbidity Index ≥2 vs 0 odds ratio 0.62 [95% confidence interval 0.58–0.66]).ConclusionThe majority of US privately insured patients with primary hyperparathyroidism are not treated with parathyroidectomy. Having an operative indication only modestly increases the likelihood of parathyroidectomy. Further research is needed to address barriers to treatment and the gap between guidelines and clinical care in primary hyperparathyroidism.     

Prevalence and risk factors of mortality and morbidity after operation for adhesive postoperative small bowel obstruction

BACKGROUND: Many factors are believed to influence the mortality and morbidity after operations for adhesive small bowel obstruction (SBO). METHODS: In a multicenter prospective cohort of 286 patients operated on for adhesive postoperative SBO, we studied the in-hospital and 30-day postdischarge mortality (early mortality) and morbidity as well as long-term mortality using univariate and multivariate analysis. RESULTS: In the present cohort, with a median follow-up of 41 months and 9% patients lost to follow-up at the end of the study, the prevalence of early postoperative mortality was 3%. All deceased patients were over 75 years old with an American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) class >/=III. The prevalence of long-term mortality was 7% with the following independent risk factors: age >75 years old (hazards ratio [HR] 6.6 [95% confidence interval [CI], 2.4-18.1]), medical complications (HR 7.4 [CI, 2.2-24.3]), and a mixed mechanism of obstruction (HR 4.5 [CI, 1.5-13.7]). Prevalence of medical and surgical morbidity was 8% and 6%, respectively. Independent risk factors for medical complications were ASA class >/=III (odds ratio [OR] 16.8 [CI, 2.1-133.1]) and bands (OR 14.1 [CI, 1.8-111.5]) and for the surgical complications the number of obstructive structures >/=10 (OR 8.3 [CI, 1.6-19.7]), a nonresected intestinal wall injury (OR 5.3 [CI, 1.5-18.3]), and intestinal necrosis (OR 5.6 [CI, 1.6-19.7]). Otherwise, 3 patients with "apparent" reversible ischemia developed a postoperative intestinal necrosis followed by 2 reoperations and 1 death. CONCLUSION: The early postoperative mortality is strongly linked with the age and the ASA class and the long-term mortality with postoperative complications. More frequent bowel resections might be suggested for patients featuring a number of obstructive structures >/=10 and an intestinal wall injury, especially when associated with a reversible intestinal ischemia.     

The impact of surgical site infection on the development of incisional hernia and small bowel obstruction in colorectal surgery

IntroductionThe purpose of this study was to evaluate the long-term complications of surgical site infection (SSI) in the colorectal population, specifically its association with incisional hernia and small bowel obstruction.MethodsUsing standardized definitions of SSI, a retrospective review of patients undergoing transabdominal colorectal surgery from January 2002 to December 2005 was performed. Primary outcomes included incisional hernia and small bowel obstruction in patients with SSIs.ResultsA total of 443 patients were analyzed. The median surgical follow-up was 12 months (2–3,091 days). Infections were identified in 101 (23%) cases. There were 99 cases (22%) of incisional hernia and 32 cases (7%) of small bowel obstruction. Logistic regression revealed SSI to be independently associated with incisional hernia after adjusting for clinical covariates (adjusted odds ratio = 2.23, P = .003; 95% confidence interval, 1.3–3.8). Patients with incisional hernia were 1.9 times more likely to have had an SSI (36.3% vs 18.8%, P ≤ .01). They required a longer operative time (224 minutes vs 198 minutes, P = .03), had an increased body mass index (29.0 vs 26.8, P ≤ .01), and had increased estimated blood loss (363 vs 289, mL, P = .03). Small bowel obstruction was significantly associated with operations involving the rectum (11.5% in operations involving the rectum vs 5.9% in nonrectal operations, P = .05), increased estimated blood loss (409 ml vs 297 ml, P = .04), and red blood cell transfusion (15.5% with transfusion vs 5.7% without, P = .01). SSI was not an independent predictor of small bowel obstruction (adjusted odds ratio = 1.05, P = .91; 95% confidence interval, .45–2.5).ConclusionsPatients with an SSI were 1.9 times more likely to have an incisional hernia than those without an SSI. An SSI after colorectal surgery was a risk factor for the development of incisional hernia but was not a risk factor for small bowel obstruction in our population.     

Demographic,clinical, and operative risk factors associated with postoperative adjacent segment disease in patients undergoing lumbar spine fusions: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND CONTEXTAdjacent segment disease (ASD) is a potential complication following lumbar spinal fusion.PURPOSEThis study aimed to demonstrate the demographic, clinical, and operative risk factors associated with ASD development following lumbar fusion.STUDY DESIGN/SETTINGSystematic review and meta-analysis.PATIENT SAMPLEWe identified 35 studies that reported risk factors for ASD, with a total number of 7,374 patients who had lumbar spine fusion.OUTCOME MEASURESWe investigated the demographic, clinical, and operative risk factors for ASD after lumbar fusion.METHODSA literature search was done using PubMed, Embase, Medline, Scopus, and the Cochrane library databases from inception to December 2019. The methodological index for non‐randomized studies (MINORS) criteria was used to assess the methodological quality of the included studies. A meta-analysis was done to calculate the odds ratio (OR) with the 95% confidence interval (CI) for dichotomous data and mean difference (MD) with 95% CI for continuous data.RESULTSThirty-five studies were included in the qualitative analysis, and 22 studies were included in the meta-analyses. The mean quality score based on the MINORS criteria was 12.4±1.9 (range, 8–16) points. Significant risk factors included higher preoperative body mass index (BMI) (mean difference [MD]=1.97 kg/m²; 95% confidence interval [CI]=1.49–2.45; p<.001), floating fusion (Odds ratio [OR]=1.78; 95% CI=1.32–2.41; p<.001), superior facet joint violation (OR=10.43; 95% CI=6.4–17.01; p<.001), and decompression outside fusion construct (OR=1.72; 95% CI=1.25–2.37; p<.001).CONCLUSIONSThe overall level of evidence was low to very low. Higher preoperative BMI, floating fusion, superior facet joint violation, and decompression outside fusion construct are significant risk factors of development of ASD following lumbar fusion surgeries.     

Predictive factors of the 30-day mortality after surgery for spinal metastasis: Analysis of a nationwide database

BackgroundSurgical procedure for symptomatic spinal metastasis is expected to improve the quality of life. Factors related to short-term perioperative mortality after surgery for spinal metastasis may be different from those related to long-term mortality, which have classically been used to determine the indication for surgery. The purposes of this study were to evaluate factors related to the 30-day mortality after surgery for spinal metastasis and create an integer risk scoring system.MethodsUsing the Diagnosis Procedure Combination database from 2010 to 2016, we extracted data of patients who underwent surgical procedure for spinal metastasis. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to clarify the association between patient backgrounds and the 30-day postoperative mortality. We created a risk scoring system using regression coefficients to estimate the 30-day mortality for each patient.ResultsAmong 3524 patients, the 30-day mortality was 2.6%. Factors associated with a higher 30-day mortality were male sex (odds ratio, 2.50 [95% confidence interval, 1.45–4.31]), emergency admission (1.80 [1.11–2.92]), rapid growth tumors (3.83 [2.49–5.90]), and non-skeletal metastasis (2.27 [1.42–3.64]). In patients with the maximum risk score of five, the 30-day mortality was 16.2%.ConclusionsFactors related to the 30-day mortality were male sex, emergency admission, rapid growth tumors, and non-skeletal metastasis. These findings provide spine surgeons and patients knowledge of the potential risk of short-term perioperative mortality and allow them to consider the risk of surgery.     

Predictors of long-term mortality and cardiac events in patients with known or suspected coronary artery disease who survive major non-cardiac surgery

The aim of this prospective study was to assess predictors of long-term outcome in patients with documented or suspected coronary artery disease who survive major non-cardiac surgery. The impact of patients' comorbidities, pre-operative heart rate variability and postoperative increase in cardiac troponin I on all-cause mortality and major cardiac events within 2 years was explored using multivariable logistic regression. Six of 173 patients died within the first month after surgery and were excluded from the study. Thirty-four of 167 patients (20%) died 1-24 months after surgery. Independent predictors of all-cause mortality were history of congestive heart failure (odds ratio 6.4 [95%, confidence interval 1.7-24]), pre-operatively depressed heart rate variability (odds ratio 6.4 [95%, confidence interval 1.9-21]), and age > 70 years (odds ratio 4.5 [95%, confidence interval 1.2-16]). In contrast, postoperative elevation of cardiac troponin I did not independently predict all-cause mortality or major cardiac events.     

Incidental parathyroidectomy in thyroidectomy and central neck dissection

BackgroundAlthough higher thyroidectomy volume has been linked with lower complication rates, its association with incidental parathyroidectomy remains less studied. The volume relationship is even less clear for central neck dissection, where individual parathyroid glands are at greater risk.MethodsPatients undergoing thyroidectomy with or without central neck dissection were evaluated for incidental parathyroidectomy, hypoparathyroidism, and hypocalcemia. Univariate and multivariable analyses were performed using binary logistic regression.ResultsOverall, 1,114 thyroidectomies and 396 concurrent central neck dissections were performed across 7 surgeons. Incidental parathyroidectomy occurred in 22.4% of surgeries (range, 16.9%–43.6%), affecting 7.1% of parathyroids at risk (range, 5.8%–14.5%). When stratified by surgeon, lower incidental parathyroidectomy rates were associated with higher thyroidectomy volumes (R² = 0.77, P = .008) and higher central neck dissection volumes (R² = 0.93, P < .001). On multivariable analysis, low-volume surgeon (odds ratio 2.94, 95% confidence interval 2.06–4.19, P < .001), extrathyroidal extension (odds ratio 3.13, 95% confidence interval 1.24–7.87, P = .016), prophylactic central neck dissection (odds ratio 2.68, 95% confidence interval 1.65–4.35, P <.001), and therapeutic central neck dissection (odds ratio 4.44, 95% confidence interval 1.98–9.96, P < .001) were the most significant factors associated with incidental parathyroidectomy. In addition, incidental parathyroidectomy was associated with a higher likelihood of temporary hypoparathyroidism (odds ratio 2.79, 95% confidence interval 1.45–5.38, P = .002) and permanent hypoparathyroidism (odds ratio 4.62, 95% confidence interval 1.41–5.96, P = .025), but not permanent hypocalcemia (odds ratio 1.27, 95% confidence interval 0.48–3.35, P = .63). Higher lymph node yield in central neck dissection was not associated with higher incidental parathyroidectomy rates (odds ratio 1.13, 95% confidence interval 0.85–8.81, P = .82).ConclusionHigher surgical volume conferred a lower rate of incidental parathyroidectomy. Nonetheless, greater lymph node yield in central neck dissections did not result in greater parathyroid-related morbidity. Such findings support the value of leveraging surgical volume to both optimize oncologic resection and minimize complication rates.     

Predictors of pulmonary complications after bariatric surgery

BackgroundPostoperative pneumonia (PP) and respiratory failure (PRF) are known to be the most common nonwound complications after bariatric surgery. Our objective was to identify their current prevalence after bariatric surgery and to study the preoperative factors associated with them using data from the American College of Surgeons' National Surgical Quality Improvement Program.MethodsPatients undergoing bariatric surgery were identified from the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (2006–2008), a multicenter, prospective database. Univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis were performed.ResultsOf 32,889 patients, PP was diagnosed in 187 patients (.6%) and PRF in 204 patients (.6%). The overall 30-day morbidity rate was 6.4%, with PP and PRF accounting for 18.7%. The 30-day mortality rate was greater for the patients with PP and PRF than those without (4.3% versus .16% and 13.7% versus .10%, P < .0001). The hospital length of stay was also longer in patients with PP/PRF (P < .0001). On multivariate analysis, congestive heart failure (odds ratio 5.3, 95% confidence interval 1.20–23.26) and stroke (odds ratio 4.1, 95% confidence interval 1.42–11.49) were the greatest preoperative risk factors for PP. Previous percutaneous coronary intervention (odds ratio 2.8, 95% confidence interval 1.64–4.74) and dyspnea at rest (odds ratio 2.64, 95% confidence interval 1.13–6.13) were the factors most strongly associated with PRF. Bleeding disorder, age, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and type of surgery were risk factors for both (P < .05). Smoking also predisposed to PP, and diabetes mellitus, anesthesia time, and increasing weight also predisposed to PRF (P < .05 for all).ConclusionAlthough PP and PRF are infrequent, they account for one fifth of the postoperative morbidity and are associated with significantly increased 30-day mortality. They can be predicted by various risk factors, emphasizing the importance of patient optimization and careful selection before bariatric surgery.     

Racial disparities in outcomes after appendectomy for acute appendicitis

BackgroundAlthough black patients with acute appendicitis have been shown to be less likely than whites to undergo laparoscopic appendectomy, it is unknown whether they suffer increased complications after surgical management of acute appendicitis.MethodsA retrospective analysis of all patients undergoing appendectomy for acute appendicitis from 2005 through 2009, using the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database, was conducted. Rates of serious and overall morbidity were compared between blacks and whites, with adjustment for preoperative risk factors, the severity of appendicitis, and surgical approach.ResultsBlacks were more likely than whites to suffer serious postoperative complications (4.8% vs 3.3%; adjusted odds ratio vs whites, 1.39; 95% confidence interval, 1.16–1.67; P = .0002) or any complication (8.4% vs 6.0%; adjusted odds ratio vs whites, 1.31; 95% confidence interval, 1.14–1.50; P = .0007).ConclusionsRacial disparities in postoperative outcomes exist for even a procedure as ubiquitous as appendectomy. More research is needed to determine the underlying reasons for these disparities.     

In-hospital outcomes alone underestimate rates of 30-day major adverse events after carotid artery stenting

ObjectiveOutcome studies using databases collecting only hospital discharge data underestimate morbidity and mortality because of failure to capture postdischarge events. The proportion of postdischarge major adverse events is well characterized in patients undergoing carotid endarterectomy (CEA) but has yet to be characterized after carotid artery stenting (CAS).MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed all patients undergoing CAS from 2011 to 2017 using the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program procedure targeted database to evaluate rates of 30-day major adverse events, stratified by in-hospital and postdischarge occurrences. The primary outcome was 30-day stroke/death. Multivariable analysis using purposeful selection was used to identify independent factors associated with in-hospital, postdischarge, and 30-day stroke/death events.ResultsOf the 899 patients undergoing CAS, reporting of in-hospital outcomes alone would yield a stroke/death rate of 2.7%, substantially underestimating the 30-day stroke/death rate of 4.0%. In fact, 35% of stroke/deaths, 27% of strokes, 73% of deaths, 35% of cardiac events, and 35% of stroke/death/cardiac events occurred after discharge. More postdischarge stroke/death events occurred after treatment of symptomatic compared with asymptomatic patients (47% vs 27%; P < .001). During this same study period, the 30-day stroke/death rate after CEA was 2.6%, with similar proportions of postdischarge strokes (28% vs 27%; P = .51) compared with CAS but lower proportions of postdischarge deaths (55% vs 73%; P < .001). After CAS, patients experiencing postdischarge stroke/death events had a shorter postoperative length of stay compared with patients with in-hospital stroke/death (1 [1-2] vs 5 [3-10] days; P < .001). Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease was independently associated with postdischarge stroke/death (odds ratio [OR], 4.4; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.2-16; P = .02) after CAS. Nonwhite ethnicity was independently associated with overall 30-day stroke/death (OR, 3.4; 95% CI, 1.4-7.9; P < .01), whereas statin use was associated with not having stroke/death within 30 days (OR, 0.5; 95% CI, 0.2-1.0; P = .049).ConclusionsMore than one-quarter of perioperative strokes occur following discharge after both CAS and CEA. A higher proportion of postdischarge deaths occur after CAS in symptomatic patients, which may reflect treatment of a population of higher risk patients. Further investigation is needed to elucidate the cause of postdischarge stroke to develop methods to reduce these complications.