Methods
The Nationwide Inpatient Sample 1998–2006 was queried for discharges after pancreatectomy. Rates of major complications (myocardial infarction, aspiration pneumonia, pulmonary compromise, perforation, infection, deep vein thrombosis/pulmonary embolism, hemorrhage, or reopening of laparotomy) were assessed. Predictors of complication(s) were evaluated using logistic regression. Their independent effect on in-hospital mortality, length of stay, and discharge disposition was assessed.
Results
Of 102,417 patient discharges, 22.7% experienced a complication. Complication rates did not decline significantly over time, while mortality rates did. Independent predictors of complications included age ≥75 [referent, 19–39; adjusted odds ratio (OR) 1.34, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.2–1.5, p < 0.0001], total pancreatectomy (vs proximal, OR 1.29, 95%CI 1.1–1.5, p = 0.0025), and low hospital resection volume (vs high, OR 1.61, 95%CI 1.4–1.8, p < 0.0001). Complications were a significant independent predictor of death (OR 7.76, 95%CI 6.7–8.8, p < 0.0001), prolonged hospital stay (OR 6.94, 95%CI 6.2–7.7, p < 0.0001), and discharge to another facility (OR 0.28, 95%CI 0.26–0.3, p < 0.0001).
Conclusions
Despite improvements in mortality, complication rates remain substantial and largely unchanged. They predict in-hospital mortality, prolonged hospital stay, and delayed return to home. The impact on healthcare costs and quality of life deserves further study.
