A new study published in the March 1, 2018 issue of the medical journal Spine determined the readmission rates and predictors of readmission after posterior cervical fusion (PCF).

Data was collected from the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database from a total of 3,401 patients from 2006 to 2013. A multi-level fusion was performed in 69.16% of patients.

Results

  • The 30-day readmission rate was 6.2%, and postoperative infection accounted for 17.06% of all readmissions.
  • Other factors associated with increased readmission rates were:
    • Age older than 70 years – 1.61%
    • Renal failure requiring dialysis – 3.69%
    • Anemia – 1.57%
    • Multilevel fusions – 1.61%
    • Surgical site infection – 20.4%
    • Wound dehiscence – 19.08%
    • Postoperative pneumonia – 2.75%
    • Pulmonary embolism – 15.39%
    • Progressing renal insufficiency – 10.13%

There are many factors to consider if you have been recommended a fusion surgery. There are also many cases in which the outpatient Bonati Spine Procedures can provide a less invasive and more targeted alternative to fusion. If you’re seeking treatment for chronic neck or back pain, allow our surgeons to review your case before making any final decisions.  Over 70,000 patented Bonati Spine Procedures have been performed with a 98.75% patient satisfaction rating.  To get your review process started, call 855-267-0482 or complete our MRI review form.

To access the full study and study abstract, visit Spine here: https://journals.lww.com/spinejournal/Abstract/2018/03010/Predictors_of_30_Day_Hospital_Readmission_After.12.aspx.

If you would like to read more about fusion studies, feel free to read our other blog posts here: https://www.bonati.com/blog/case-against-fusion-1/https://www.bonati.com/blog/case-fusion-2/https://www.bonati.com/blog/case-fusion-3/,  https://www.bonati.com/blog/a-case-against-fusion-4/ and https://www.bonati.com/blog/case-fusion-5/.