An analysis of readmission trends by urgency and race/ethnicity in the MBSAQIP registry, 2015–2018

BackgroundLarge-scale analyses stratifying bariatric surgery readmissions by urgency are lacking.ObjectivesIdentify predictors of urgent/nonurgent readmission among “ideal” bariatric candidates, using a national registry.SettingMetabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) national database.MethodsWe extracted an “ideal” patient cohort from the 2015–2018 Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) registry, characterized by only typical weight-related comorbidities (hypertension [HTN], obstructive sleep apnea [OSA], gastroesophageal reflux disease [GERD], and diabetes (insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus [IDDM] and non–insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus [NIDDM]) undergoing primary bariatric surgery with an uneventful postoperative course. Readmissions were classified as “urgent” (UR; e.g., leak, obstruction, bleeding) or “nonurgent” (NUR; e.g., dehydration, nonspecific abdominal pain). χ² or t test analyses were used for bivariate significance testing. Multivariate logistic regression models were constructed to assess independent predictors of readmission.ResultsThe cohort (N = 292,547) comprised 38.5% of all MBSAQIP patients (mean age [standard deviation] = 43.2 [11.7]; body mass index [BMI] = 44.9 [6.6]; 81% female; 62% White, 17% Black, 14% Hispanic). Total readmission rates were 2.75% (n = 8046) and decreased from 2015–2018 (3.00%–2.63%; P < .001). Independent predictors of readmissions included Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) (odds ratio [OR] = 1.97, p < .001), Black (OR = 1.46, P < .001) and Hispanic race (OR = 1.14, P < .001), GERD (OR = 1.27, P < .001), HTN (OR = 1.08, P = .003), and IDDM (OR = 1.39, P < .001). NUR and UR readmission rates were 1.27% (n = 3702) and 1.06% (n = 3090), respectively. NURs decreased over time (1.42%–1.16%, P < .001), with no change in Urs (1.01%–1.06%, P = .51); this trend persisted in multivariate analysis (2017: NUR OR = .85, P < .001; 2018: NUR OR = .82, p < .001). Independent predictors of both URs and NURs included Black (NUR OR = 1.71, p < .001; UR OR = 1.27, p < .001) and Hispanic (NUR OR = 1.15, P < .001; UR OR = 1.19, P < .001) race, RYGB (NUR OR = 1.84, P < .001; UR OR = 2.34, P < .001), and GERD (NUR OR = 1.39, p < .001; UR OR = 1.17, P < .001). Female sex (NUR OR = 1.64, P < .001), age (NUR OR = .98, P < .001), HTN (NUR OR = 1.22, P < .001), and IDDM (NUR OR = 1.41, P < .001) predicted NURs, while higher BMI (UR OR = 1.01, P < .001), and OSA (UR OR = 1.10, P = .02) predicted URs.ConclusionReadmission rates for “ideal” bariatric patients improved over time, driven by reductions in non-urgent etiologies. Racial disparities persist for both urgent and non-urgent causes of readmission.     

Association Between Nonsurgical Weight Loss From Body Mass Index >40 to Body Mass Index <40 and Complications and Readmissions Following Total Hip Arthroplasty

BackgroundElevated body mass index (BMI) is a risk factor for adverse outcomes following total hip arthroplasty (THA). It is unknown if preoperative weight loss to a BMI <40 kg/m² is associated with reduced risk of adverse outcomes.MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed elective, primary THA performed at an academic center from 2015 to 2019. Patients were split into groups based on their BMI trajectory prior to THA: BMI consistently <40 (“BMI <40”); BMI >40 at the time of surgery (“BMI >40”); and BMI >40 within 2 years preoperatively, but <40 at the time of surgery (“Weight Loss”). Length of stay (LOS), 30-day readmissions, and complications as defined by Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services were compared between groups using parsimonious regression models and Fisher’s exact testing. Adjusted analyses controlled for sex, age, and American Society of Anesthesiologists class.ResultsIn total, 1589 patients were included (BMI <40: 1387, BMI >40: 96, Weight Loss: 106). The rate of complications in each group was 3.5%, 6.3%, and 8.5% and the rate of 30-day readmissions was 3.0%, 4.2%, and 7.5%, respectively. Compared to the BMI <40 group, the weight loss group had a significantly higher risk of 30-day readmission (odds ratio [OR] 2.70, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.19-6.17, P = .02), higher risk of any complication (OR 2.47, 95% CI 1.09-5.59, P = .03), higher risk of mechanical complications (OR 3.07, 95% CI 1.14-8.25, P = .03), and longer median LOS (16% increase, P = .002). The BMI >40 group had increased median LOS (10% increase, P = .03), but no difference in readmission or complications (P > .05) compared to BMI <40.ConclusionWeight loss from BMI >40 to BMI <40 prior to THA was associated with increased risk of readmission and complications compared to BMI <40, whereas BMI >40 was not.Level of evidenceLevel III – Retrospective Cohort Study.     

Impact of bariatric surgery on heart failure mortality

BackgroundThe impact of bariatric surgery on discrete cardiovascular events has not been well characterized.ObjectivesTo assess the impact of prior bariatric surgery on mortality associated with heart failure (HF) admission.SettingA retrospective analysis of 2007–2014 Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project—Nationwide Inpatient Sample.MethodsParticipants including 2810 patients with a principal discharge diagnosis of HF who also had a history of prior bariatric surgery were identified. These patients were matched 1:5 with patients who had similar principal diagnoses but no history of bariatric surgery (controls). Propensity scores, balanced on baseline characteristics, were used to assemble 2 control groups. Control group-1 included patients with obesity (body mass index [BMI] ≥35 kg/m²) only. In control group-2, the BMI was considered as one of the matching criteria in propensity matching. Multivariate regression models were utilized to calculate the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) of mortality and length of stay (LOS).ResultsWith well-balanced matching, 33,720 (weighted) patients were included in the analysis. In-hospital mortality rates after HF admission were significantly lower in patients with a history of bariatric surgery compared with control group-1 (0.96% versus 1.86%, OR .52, 95% CI .35–0.77, P = .0013) and control group-2 (0.96% versus 1.86%, OR .52, 95% CI .35–0.77, P = .0011). Furthermore, LOS was shorter in the bariatric surgery group compared with control group-1 (4.8 ± 4.4 versus 5.7 ± 5.7 d, P < .001) and control group-2 (4.8 ± 4.4 versus 5.4 ± 6.3 d, P < .001).ConclusionsOur data suggest that prior bariatric surgery is associated with almost 50% reduction in in-hospital mortality and shorter LOS in patients with HF admission.     

The Role of Malnutrition in Ninety-Day Outcomes After Total Joint Arthroplasty

BackgroundResearch has linked malnutrition to more complications in total joint arthroplasty (TJA) patients. The role of preoperative albumin in predicting length of stay (LOS) and 90-day outcomes remains understudied. Often, an albumin cut-off ≤3.5 g/dL is used as proxy for malnutrition, although this value remains understudied. This preoperative level may be missing some patients at risk for adverse events post TJA.MethodsTJA patients at a single institution from 2013 to 2018 were reviewed for preoperative albumin level. In total, 4047 cases (total knee arthroplasty: 2058; total hip arthroplasty: 1989) had available data, including 90-day readmissions, 90-day emergency department (ED) visits, and postoperative LOS.ResultsAbout 5.6% experienced a readmission and 9.6% had at least one ED visit within 90 days. Overall prevalence of malnutrition was 3.6%, and this cohort experienced a longer average LOS (3.5 vs 2.2 days, P < .0001) and was more likely to experience a readmission (16% vs 5%, P < .0001) or ED visit (18% vs 9%, P = .0005). Additionally, albumin ≤3.5 g/dL was correlated with more frequent discharge to skilled nursing facility/rehab (30.8% vs 14.7%, P < .0001), increased risk for 90-day readmission with univariable (odds ratio [OR] 1.79, P < .0001) and multivariable logistic regression (OR 1.55, P < .0001), and increased risk for 90-day ED visits with univariable (OR 1.62, P < .0001) and multivariable regression (OR 1.35, P < .0001). The optimal albumin cut-off was 3.94 g/dL in a univariable model for 90-day readmission.ConclusionScreening for malnutrition may serve a role in preoperative evaluation. An albumin cutoff value of 3.5 g/dL may miss some at-risk patients.     

Relationship Between Mental Health Disorders and Readmissions Following Total Joint Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BackgroundThere is limited evidence exploring the relationship between mental health disorders and the readmissions following total joint arthroplasty (TJA). Therefore, we conducted a meta-analysis to evaluate the relationship between mental health disorders and the risk of readmission following TJA.MethodsWe searched PubMed, Cochrane, and Google Scholar from their inception till April 19, 2022. Studies exploring the association of mental health disorders and readmission risk following TJA were selected. The outcomes were divided into 30-day readmission, 90-day readmission, and readmission after 90 days. We also performed subgroup analyses based on the type of arthroplasty: total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA). A total of 12 studies were selected, of which 11 were included in quantitative analysis. A total of 1,345,893 patients were evaluated, of which 73,953 patients suffered from mental health disorders.ResultsThe risk of 30-day readmission (odds ratio = 1.43, 95% CI 1.14-1.80, P = .002, I² = 87%) and 90-day readmission (OR = 1.35, 95% CI 1.22-1.49, P < .00001, I² = 89%) was significantly associated with mental health disorders. On subgroup analyses, 30-day readmission was significantly associated with THA (OR = 1.29, 95% CI 1.04-1.60, P = .02), but not with TKA (OR = 1.44, 95% CI 0.51-4.06, P = .50). Similarly, 90-day readmission was significantly associated with both THA (OR = 1.21, 95% CI 1.14-1.29, P < .00001) and TKA (OR = 1.33, 95% CI 1.17-1.51, P < .0001).ConclusionMental health disorders are significantly associated with increased 30-day and 90-day readmissions. Increasing awareness regarding mental health disorders and readmission in arthroplasty will help in efficient preoperative risk stratification and better postoperative management in these patients.     

Incidence of and risk factors associated with care fragmentation following bariatric surgery

BackgroundCurrent readmission rates do not account for readmissions to nonindex hospitals and may underestimate the actual burden of readmissions.ObjectiveUsing a nationally representative database, we sought to characterize nonindex readmissions following bariatric surgery and identify risk factors associated with readmission to a nonindex hospital.SettingPatients in the United States undergoing elective bariatric surgery.MethodsThe Nationwide Readmissions Database was used to identify a weighted sample of 545,377 patients undergoing elective bariatric surgery between 2010 and 2014. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with readmission to a nonindex hospital.ResultsAmong all patients, 5.6% were readmitted at least once within 30 days. Within the subgroup of patients who were readmitted, 17.6% were readmitted to a different hospital than the index admission hospital. Factors independently associated with higher odds of readmission to a nonindex hospital were primary payor (Medicare: odds ratio [OR] = 1.48, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.24–1.75; Medicaid: OR = 1.56, 95% CI: 1.26–1.95), All Patients Refined Diagnosis Related Group severity of illness score (extreme versus minor: OR = 1.48; 95% CI: 1.04–2.09), primary procedure (laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy versus laparoscopic gastric bypass: OR = 1.23; 95% CI: 1.05–1.44), hospital bed size (reference: small hospital, medium: OR = .52, 95% CI: .39–.70; large: OR = .47, 95% CI: .35–.63), hospital ownership (reference: private, nonprofit hospital, government: OR = 1.77, 95% CI: 1.32–2.37; private, investor-owned: OR = 1.33, 95% CI: 1.07–1.64), and hospital location (reference: metropolitan area >1 million population, metropolitan <1 million population: OR = .44, 95% CI: .34–.56; micropolitan/rural: OR = .44, 95% CI: .27–.73).ConclusionFailure to account for readmissions to different hospitals may underestimate readmission rates by approximately 18%.     

How to Develop a Fair Revision Arthroplasty Bundle? Using Perioperative Complications and Readmissions to Investigate

BackgroundThe next frontier for value-based health care in total joint arthroplasty is revision surgery. Although the disparity in health care utilization between revision procedures compared with primary total hip and total knee arthroplasty (THA/TKA) procedures is recognized, no agreement regarding the risk adjustment necessary to make revision bundles fair to both payors and providers exists. The purpose of this study is to use the risk of perioperative complications and readmissions of patients undergoing revision THA/TKA to establish the foundations of a fair revision arthroplasty bundle.MethodsWe retrospectively evaluated a consecutive series of 484 aseptic THA/TKA revisions performed at our institution over a 12-month period and compared complications, length of stay, reoperations, and 90-day readmissions to a group of 802 consecutive patients undergoing primary THA/TKA.Results169 (34.9%) patients experienced major complications after revision THA/TKA compared with 176 (21.9%) patients undergoing primary THA/TKA (P < .001), (OR 1.91 CI 1.49-2.45, P < .001). Patients undergoing revision TKA were 3.64 times more likely to require hospitalization greater than 3 days (OR 2.59-5.12, CI 95%, P < .001), whereas patients undergoing revision THA were 4.46 times more likely to require hospitalization greater than 3 days (OR 2.89-6.87, CI 95%, P < .001). Revision patients were 3X more likely to have a 90-day readmission and 4X more likely to have a reoperation.ConclusionFor a revision bundle to be fair and widely adopted, either significant financial incentive must be instituted or the latitude given to exclude outliers from the final reconciliation. This must be adjusted to not disincentivize institutions from providing care for failed hip and knee arthroplasties.     

Risk Factors for Delayed Discharge and Adverse Outcomes Following Outpatient Billed Total Knee Arthroplasty

BackgroundThe volume of outpatient total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has increased with advances in perioperative protocols, patient selection, and recent policy changes regarding insurance authorization. This study analyzed 30-day outcomes from a national database to better understand risk factors for delayed discharge (length of stay [LOS] ≥1), readmission, and reoperation after outpatient TKA.MethodsThe National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database was utilized to collect TKA (CPT 27447) billed as outpatient surgery performed from 2013 to 2018. Patient demographics, comorbidities, and short-term outcomes were collected and compared in LOS 0 versus LOS ≥1 cohorts. Subgroup analysis was completed for TKA performed in 2018, after the Center for Medicare Services removal of TKA from the inpatient-only list.ResultsA total of 13,669 patients had outpatient TKA performed from 2013 to 2018. Most patients had LOS ≥1 day (77.1%). The LOS 0 cohort demonstrated a lower 30-day readmission rate (1.8%) compared to LOS ≥1 (2.8%), P > .01. Both groups demonstrated a low 30-day reoperation rate, LOS 0 (0.7%) and LOS ≥1 (1.1%), P = .05. Regression analysis demonstrated risk factors for LOS ≥1 day included COPD, ASA ≥3, age >75, and BMI >35 kg/m². Regression analysis demonstrated male gender, age >75, ASA ≥3, and albumin <3.5 g/dL were risk factors for readmission. Hypertension was a risk factor for 30-day reoperation.ConclusionRisk factors for LOS ≥1 day include age >75, ASA ≥3, BMI >35 kg/m². In addition, BMI >35 kg/m² was a risk factor for readmission and reoperation. These findings reinforce appropriate patient selection when considering outpatient TKA.     

How Much Does a Readmission Cost the Bundle Following Primary Hip and Knee Arthroplasty?

Background

As alternative payment models increase in popularity for total joint arthroplasty (TJA), providers and hospitals now share the financial risk associated with unexpected readmissions. While studies have identified postacute care as a driver for costs in a bundle, the fiscal burden associated with specific causes of readmission is unclear. The purpose of this study is to quantify the additional costs associated with each of the causes of readmission following primary TJA.

Simultaneous Bilateral Total Knee Arthroplasty Is Associated With Shorter Length of Stay but Increased Mortality Compared With Staged Bilateral Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BackgroundPrimary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is associated with high patient satisfaction. However, controversy remains regarding the safety and efficacy of conducting simultaneous bilateral (simBTKA) versus staged bilateral TKA (staBTKA). The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the current evidence for simBTKA versus staBTKA and compare clinical outcomes including mortality, complications and length of stay (LOS).MethodsA search was performed of PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane central databases between January 2000 and March 2020. Search terms included “simultaneous,” “staged,” and “bilateral TKA.” Inclusion criteria comprised studies comparing outcomes of simBTKA versus staBTKA. Quality of included studies was assessed and meta-analyses of pooled data was conducted.Results29 articles published between 2001 and 2020 were included in qualitative synthesis from 927 potentially relevant titles, comprising 257,284 patients. 104,207 patients underwent simBTKA and 153,632 patients underwent staBTKA. simBTKA was associated with significantly increased 90-day mortality rate (P < .00001, OR 2.24, 95% CI 1.79-2.81), increased incidence of pulmonary embolism (P < .00001, OR 1.69, 95% CI 1.51-1.89), venous thrombosis (P < .00001, OR 1.33, 95% CI 1.23-1.43), and neurological complications (P = .002, OR 1.42, 95% CI 1.13-1.77). Incidence of superficial and deep infection was significantly increased with staBTKA (P = .02, P < .00001 respectively). Revision rate within one year was equivocal. Mean LOS was 2.1 days shorter for simBTKA.ConclusionSimBTKA was associated with decreased incidence of infection and LOS but increased incidence of 90-day mortality, venous thromboembolism and neurological complications. Revision rates were equivocal. Patients should be selected and counseled based on the risks respective to each strategy.     

Unequal rates of postoperative complications in relatively healthy bariatric surgical patients of white and black race

BackgroundRacial disparities in postsurgical complications are often presumed to be due to a higher preoperative co-morbidity burden among patients of black race, although being relatively healthy is not a prerequisite for a complication-free postoperative course.ObjectivesTo examine the association of race with short-term postbariatric surgery complications in seemingly healthy patients.SettingsMetabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program database (2015–2018).MethodsWe studied a relatively healthy (American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status 1 or 2), propensity score–matched cohort of adult non-Hispanic black and non-Hispanic white bariatric surgery patients. We compared the risk-adjusted incidences of postoperative complications, serious adverse events, and measures of postoperative resource utilization across racial groups.ResultsWe identified 44,090 matched pairs of relatively healthy black and white bariatric surgery patients. Patients of black race were 72% more likely than those of white race to develop 1 or more postoperative complications (.7% versus .4%, respectively; odds ratio [OR], 1.72; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.32–2.24; P < .01). Measures of postbariatric resource utilization were significantly higher in patients of black race than those of white race, including unplanned reoperations (1.3% versus 1.0%, respectively; OR, 1.28; 95% CI, 1.07–1.52; P = .01), unplanned readmissions (4.5% versus 3.0%, respectively; OR, 1.53; 95% CI, 1.38–1.69; P < .01), unplanned interventions (1.6% versus 1.2%, respectively; OR, 1.36; 95% CI, 1.16–1.60; P < .01), and extended hospital lengths of stay (51.2% versus 42.7%, respectively; OR, 1.41; 95% CI, 1.36–1.46; P < .01).ConclusionEven among relatively healthy patients, race appears to be an important determinant of postbariatric surgery complications and resource utilization. Research and interventions aimed at narrowing the racial disparities in bariatric surgery outcomes may need to broaden the focus beyond the racial variation in the preoperative co-morbidity burden.     

Population-based analysis of salvage radical prostatectomy with examination of factors associated with adverse perioperative outcomes

IntroductionSalvage radical prostatectomy (SRP) is a potentially curative operation performed for recurrent prostate cancer after radiation therapy (RT). The purpose of this study was to examine perioperative and pathologic outcomes of SRP in a national cohort.Materials and methodsThe National Cancer Database from 1998 to 2011 was used to identify 408 patients who underwent SRP. We evaluated the demographic data, clinical variables, and pathologic and perioperative outcomes. Primary outcomes of interest were length of stay (LOS) and positive surgical margins (PSM). A multivariable logistic regression model was employed to identify preoperative predictors of LOS ≥3 days and PSM following SRP.ResultsAmong patients undergoing SRP, the mean age was 62.5±6.8 years, mean prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level was 12.6±15.6 ng/ml, and 64% were categorized as clinical stage T1. External beam RT (89%), followed by brachytherapy (11%), was the most common modalities for primary RT. Most SRPs were performed at high-volume centers (57%) in metropolitan locations (83%). Most patients underwent a lymph node dissection (75%) and the mean node count was 15.0±30.1. On final pathology, 73% had intermediate- or high-grade disease (Gleason score 7 in 43% and Gleason score 8–10 in 30%), 49% had pT3 or pT4 disease, 6.2% had positive lymph nodes, and 34% had PSM. The mean LOS was 3.5±9.9 days, and 43% of patients had a LOS≥3 days. The 30-day readmission rate was 6.5% after SRP, and 30- and 90-day postoperative mortality rates were extremely low at 0.4% (n = 1). On multivariable analysis of the entire cohort, PSA level>20 ng/ml was an independent predictor of PSM (OR = 3.68, 95% CI: 1.2–10.9, P = 0.018). PSA level>20 ng/ml (OR = 4.37, 95% CI: 1.2–16.2, P = 0.027) and cT2 or greater disease (OR = 2.52, 95% CI: 1.0–6.2, P = 0.046) were associated with prolonged LOS (LOS≥3 d), whereas surgery at an academic facility (OR = 0.30, 95% CI: 0.1–0.8, P = 0.02) reduced the odds of LOS≥3 days.ConclusionsIn select patients derived from a population-based cohort, SRP results in effective local cancer control with acceptable perioperative outcomes. PSA level>20 ng/ml is independently associated with PSM and prolonged LOS after SRP. Clinical stage T2 or greater disease is also associated with prolonged LOS, whereas surgery at an academic facility reduced this risk.     

Readmission Following Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy

Methods:Data on 343 consecutive LSG operations performed from February 2010 to May 2014 by a single surgeon (PG) were analyzed. Patients readmitted within 30 d were compared to the remaining patients by using Student''s t test for continuous variables and the χ² test for categorical variables.Results:All LSGs were completed laparoscopically with no conversions to open procedures. There were no reoperations, leaks, perioperative hemorrhages, or mortalities. Twelve patients (3.5%) were readmitted; 1 was readmitted twice. There were no identified risk factors for readmission, including patient demographics, comorbidities, and perioperative factors. Notably, 7 (7%) readmissions occurred in the initial 100 patients and 5 (2%) in the remaining 243 patients (P = .04). Clinical pathways were modified after the initial 100 patients; routine contrast esophagograms were no longer performed, and a 1-day routine postoperative stay was adopted. Operative time also decreased from 94.2 ± 23.8 to 78.2 ± 20.0 min (P < .001).Conclusions:Readmission rates after LSG remain in a range similar to those described for other laparoscopic bariatric procedures. Larger prospective studies are needed to identify patterns of complications and readmissions in patients undergoing LSG that may differ from other bariatric procedures.     

Incidence,risk factors and outcomes of urethral recurrence after radical cystectomy for bladder cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis

We aimed to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis assessing the incidence and risk factors of urethral recurrence (UR) as well as summarizing data on survival outcomes in patients with UR after radical cystectomy (RC) for bladder cancer. The MEDLINE and EMBASE databases were searched in February 2021 for studies of patients with UR after RC. Incidence and risk factors of UR were the primary endpoints. The secondary endpoint was survival outcomes in patients who experienced UR. Twenty-one studies, comprising 9,435 patients, were included in the quantitative synthesis. Orthotopic neobladder (ONB) diversion was associated with a decreased probability of UR compared to non-ONB (pooled OR: 0.44, 95% CI: 0.31–0.61, P < 0.001) and male patients had a significantly higher risk of UR compared to female patients (pooled OR: 3.16, 95% CI: 1.83–5.47, P < 0.001). Among risk factors, prostatic urethral or prostatic stromal involvement (pooled HR: 5.44, 95% CI: 3.58–8.26, P < 0.001; pooled HR: 5.90, 95% CI: 1.82–19.17, P = 0.003, respectively) and tumor multifocality (pooled HR: 2.97, 95% CI: 2.05–4.29, P < 0.001) were associated with worse urethral recurrence-free survival. Neither tumor stage (P = 0.63) nor CIS (P = 0.72) were associated with worse urethral recurrence-free survival. Patients with UR had a 5-year CSS that varied from 47% to 63% and an OS - from 40% to 74%; UR did not appear to be related to worse survival outcomes. Male patients treated with non-ONB diversion as well as patients with prostatic involvement and tumor multifocality seem to be at the highest risk of UR after RC. Risk-adjusted standardized surveillance protocols should be developed into clinical practice after RC.     

Bariatric surgery decreases hospitalization rates of patients with obstructive lung diseases: a nationwide analysis

BackgroundObesity can worsen outcomes in patients with chronic respiratory diseases.ObjectivesThe objective of the study was to determine the impact of bariatric surgery (BaS) on risk of hospitalization due to acute exacerbation (AE) of chronic obstructive lung diseases (OLDs).SettingAcademic, University-affiliated Hospital; United States.MethodsNationwide Inpatient Sample data collected from 2010 to 2015 were examined. Patients were classified as treatment and control groups. Treatment subjects were defined as patients with a previous history of BaS, and control subjects, as patients with a body mass index ≥35 kg/m² and without a history of BaS. The primary outcome was hospitalization due to AE of any OLD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, and bronchiectasis), and the secondary outcome was the total length of stay (LOS). Univariate analysis and multivariate regression model were performed to assess the difference in outcomes between groups.ResultsWe included a total of 2,300,845 subjects: 2,004,804 controls and 296,041 treatments. Univariate analysis showed that the hospitalization rate was significantly lower for the treatment group than that for the control group (3.7% versus 9.8%, P < .0001), confirmed after adjusting for covariates (control versus treatment: odds ratio [OR] = 2.46, P < .0001). Subgroup analysis showed that the treatment group had a lower risk of LOS ≥3 days than controls (69.8% versus 77.4%, P < .0001), confirmed by multivariate analysis (control versus treatment: OR = 1.40, P < .0001).ConclusionsBaS-induced weight loss may decrease the risk of hospitalization due to AE in patients with OLD, also decreasing the LOS. We acknowledge that this comparison is limited by the nature of the database; hence, further prospective studies are needed to better understand these results.     

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.     

Are male patients undergoing bariatric surgery less healthy than female patients?

BackgroundMale patients are underrepresented in bariatric surgery (BS) despite a relatively equal proportion of men and women experiencing obesity.ObjectivesDifferences in frequency and severity of obesity-associated medical problems (OAMPs) between men and women undergoing BS or in a control group (HELIUS [HEalthy Life In an Urban Setting]) were evaluated. The hypothesis was that men undergoing BS are less healthy than women.SettingA cross-sectional study of 2 cohorts undergoing BS in 2013 (BS2013) and 2019 (BS2019) and a control group of patients with severe obesity from a general population (HELIUS).MethodsCharacteristics concerning weight and OAMPs, medication usage, intoxications, postoperative complications (for BS2019) were compared between men and women. Members of the HELIUS cohort were tested for eligibility for BS.ResultsOf 3244 patients included, the majority were female (>78.4%). Median (interquartile range) age and body mass index (kg/m²) in male versus female patients were 47.0 (41.0–53.8) versus 43.0 (36.0–51.0) years and 41.5 (38.4–45.2) versus 42.3 (40.2–45.9), respectively, in BS2013, and 52.0 (39.8–57.0) versus 45.0 (35.0–53.0) years and 40.4 (37.4–43.8) versus 41.3 (39.0–44.1) in BS2019 (P < .05). The rates of men with OAMPs were 71.4% and 82.0% compared with 50.2% and 56.9% of women in BS2013 and BS2019, respectively. Overall medication usage was higher in male patients (P = .014). In BS2019, male patients exhibited a higher median HbA1C (P < .001) and blood pressure (P = .003) and used more antihypertensives and antidiabetics (P = .004). Postoperative complications did not differ between men and women. In the control cohort, 66.5% of men and 66.6% of women were eligible for BS.ConclusionMen undergoing BS more often experience OAMPs than women, and OAMPs are more advanced in men.     

Pigmented Villonodular Synovitis of the Hip in Patients Undergoing Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Retrospective Case-Controlled Analysis

BackgroundPigmented villonodular synovitis (PVNS) is a condition affecting larger joints such as the hip and knee. Little is known regarding the impact of PVNS on total hip arthroplasty (THA). Therefore, the aim of this study is to determine if patients with PVNS of the hip undergoing primary THA experience greater (1) in-hospital lengths of stay (LOS); (2) complications; (3) readmission rates; and (4) costs.MethodsPatients undergoing primary THA for PVNS of the hip from the years 2005 to 2014 were identified using a nationwide claims registry. PVNS patients were matched to a control cohort in a 1:5 ratio by age, gender, and various comorbidities. The query yielded 7440 patients with (n = 1240) and without (n = 6200) PVNS of the hip undergoing primary THA. Endpoints analyzed included LOS, complications, readmission rates, and costs. Multivariate logistic regression was used to determine odds ratios (OR) of developing complications. Welch’s t-tests were used to test for significance in LOS and cost between the cohorts. A P-value less than .001 was considered statistically significant.ResultsPVNS patients had approximately 8% longer in-hospital LOS (3.8 vs 3.5 days, P = .0006). PVNS patients had greater odds of (OR 1.60, P < .0001) medical and (OR 1.81, P < .0001) implant-related complications. Furthermore, PVNS patients were found to have higher odds (OR 1.84, P < .0001) of 90-day readmissions. PVNS patients also incurred higher day of surgery ($13,119 vs $11,983, P < .0001) and 90-day costs ($17,169 vs $15,097, P < .0001).ConclusionWithout controlling for global trends in LOS, complications, readmissions, or costs between 2005 and 2014, the findings of the study suggest that PVNS of the hip is associated with worse outcomes and higher costs following primary THA. The study is useful as orthopedic surgeons can use the study to educate patients of the complications which may occur following their hip surgery.     

Outcomes of a First Total Knee Arthroplasty Are Associated With Outcomes of the Subsequent Contralateral Total Knee Arthroplasty

BackgroundTo determine if preoperative characteristics and postoperative outcomes of a first total knee arthroplasty (TKA) were predictive of characteristics and outcomes of the subsequent contralateral TKA in the same patient.MethodsRetrospective administrative claims data from (SPARCS) database were analyzed for patients who underwent sequential TKAs from September 2015 to September 2017 (n = 5,331). Hierarchical multivariable Poisson regression (length of stay [LOS]) and multivariable logistic regression (all other outcomes), controlling for sex, age, and Elixhauser comorbidity scores were performed.ResultsThe cohort comprised 65% women, with an average age of 66 years and an average duration of 7.3 months between surgeries (SD: 4.7 months). LOS was significantly shorter for the second TKA (2.6 days) than for the first TKA (2.8 days; P < .001). Patients discharged to a facility after their first TKA had a probability of 76% of discharge to facility after the second TKA and were significantly more likely to be discharged to a facility compared with those discharged home after the first TKA (odds ratio [OR]: 63.7; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 52.1-77.8). The probability of a readmission at 30 and 90 days for the second TKA if the patient was readmitted for the first TKA was 1.0% (OR: 3.70; 95% CI: 0.98-14.0) and 6.4% (OR: 9; 95% CI: 5.1-16.0), respectively. Patients with complications after their first TKA had a 27% probability of a complication after the second TKA compared with a 1.6% probability if there was no complication during the first TKA (OR: 14.6; 95% CI: 7.8.1-27.2).ConclusionThe LOS, discharge disposition, 90-day readmission rate, and complication rate for a second contralateral TKA are strongly associated with the patient’s first TKA experience. The second surgery was found to be associated with an overall shorter LOS, fewer readmissions, and higher likelihood of home discharge.Level of EvidenceLevel 3-retrospective cohort study.     

The Importance of Oral History: Does Dental Implant Placement or Caries One Year Before or After Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty Increase Medical Complications and Periprosthetic Joint Infections?

BackgroundConsensus regarding prior dental problems on the outcomes of total knee arthroplasty (TKA) patients is lacking. Therefore, our objectives were to determine the association of dental caries or dental implant placement in TKA patients on the following: (1) medical complications; (2) health care utilization (lengths of stay and readmissions); (3) implant-related complications; and (4) expenditures.MethodsA retrospective query was performed using an administrative claims database for 3 patient cohorts undergoing primary TKA from 2010 to 2020. Patients who had a history of dental caries or implant placement 1 year prior to TKA (n = 1,466) and 1 year after TKA (n = 1,127) were case-matched to patients who did not have a dental history by age and comorbidities. Outcomes included 90-day complications, health care utilization parameters, 2-year implant complications, and expenditures. Logistic regression models computed odds ratios (OR) of complications and readmissions. P values less than 0.005 were significant.ResultsPatients who had a dental implant placement prior to TKA had higher frequency of complications (20.05 versus 14.01%; OR: 1.53, P < .0001), including myocardial infarctions (2.52 versus 1.23%; OR: 2.08, P = .0002) and pneumonia (2.52 versus 1.24%; OR: 2.06, P = .0002). Lengths of stay (3.28 versus 2.98 days; P = .255), readmission rates (4.71 versus 4.28%; P = .470), and implant-related complications including periprosthetic joint infections (3.14 versus 2.63%; OR: 1.20, P = .279) were similar between patients lacking dental history. Expenditures were higher in patients who had a postoperative and preoperative dental history ($19,252 versus $19,363 versus 17,980; P < .001).ConclusionDental caries or implant placement may reflect overall worse medical condition resulting in more complications and higher costs after TKA. Dental history screening preoperatively may assist arthroplasty surgeons in minimizing complications.