Risk Factors for Readmission and Mortality Following Colonic Surgery: A Consecutive Retrospective Series of More Than 2500 Cases

Abstract

Introduction:

The optimal strategy to reduce short-term readmission rates following colectomy remains unclear. Identifying possible risk factors can minimize the burden associated with surgical complications leading to readmissions.

Materials and Methods:

A retrospective review of all adult patients who underwent colectomies between January 2008 and December 2020 in a large tertiary medical center was conducted. Data were collected from patient's medical charts and analyzed.

Results:

Overall, 2547 patients were included in the study (53% females; mean age 68.3 years). The majority of patients (83%, n = 2112) were operated in an elective setting, whereas 435 patients (17%) underwent emergency colonic resection. Overall, the 30-day readmission rate was 8.3% (n = 218) with an overall 30-day mortality rate of 1.65% (n = 42). Multivariable analysis of possible risk factors for 30-day readmission demonstrated that patient age (odds ratio [OR] 0.98; P = .002), length of stay before surgery (OR 1.01; P = .003), and blood transfusion rate during hospitalization (OR 2.09; P < .001) were all independently associated with an increased risk. Laparoscopic colectomy (OR 0.53; P = .001) was associated with a reduced risk for readmission. Multivariable analysis of risk factors for mortality showed that age (OR 1.10; P < .001), cognitive decline (OR 12.35; P < .001), diabetes (OR 1.00; P = .004), and primary ostomy formation (OR 2.80; P = .006) were all associated with higher mortality.

Conclusion:

Patient age, history of cognitive decline, and blood transfusion along with a longer hospital stay were all correlated with an increased risk for 30-day patient readmission following colectomy.