Abstract
PURPOSE
This study aims to identify the incidence and factors influencing readmissions following scoliosis surgery over a period of 19 years.
METHODS
A search was conducted in the hospital database between 7th January 1992 and 29th December 2010. 73 diagnostic codes were used to identify all scoliosis patients within this period. Repetitions of hospital codes were identified and these represent readmission episodes. Each readmission episode was manually classified using hospital diagnostic/procedural codes, clinic letters, or radiographs. The average costs of the implants used were calculated using the hospital costing database.
RESULTS
4528 primary scoliosis operations were identified. In the 19 year period, 596 readmissions episodes were recorded. 101 (2.2% of all primary operations) were metalwork revisions for pseudarthrosis, further/residual deformity, and adjacent level degeneration. 193 (4.2%) were removal or trimming of prominent metalwork. Other reasons for readmissions were: infection (2%), costoplasty (2.1%) injection (2.4%), scar revision (0.1%). There were no clear correlations with the year of the primary surgery, or the cost of the implants used.
CONCLUSION
The recorded complication rate remained constant over a 19 year period, despite changes in surgical techniques, peri-operative care, implant types and cost. A national spinal implant registry is called for.
ETHICS APPROVAL None
INTEREST STATEMENT None
