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Hamada O, Tsutsumi T, Tsunemitsu A, Sasaki N, Kunisawa S, Fushimi K, Imanaka Y. Association of cirrhosis severity with outcomes after hip fracture repairs: A propensity-score matched analysis using a large inpatient database. J Orthop Sci 2025:S0949-2658(25)00038-7. [PMID: 39979173 DOI: 10.1016/j.jos.2025.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2024] [Revised: 01/22/2025] [Accepted: 01/28/2025] [Indexed: 02/22/2025]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Advanced cirrhosis is associated with increased mortality in certain surgeries, but the impact of cirrhosis severity on outcomes in patients with hip fractures remains unclear. METHODS In a large nationwide administrative database of hospitalized patients, we compared postoperative outcomes in patients with hip fractures across different Child-Pugh classes of cirrhosis in Japan. Using the Japanese Diagnosis Procedure Combination Database, we identified 833,648 eligible patients diagnosed with hip fractures and underwent surgery between July 2010 and March 2021. Three sets of 1:1 propensity-score matching were performed for four groups: non-cirrhosis cases and Child-Pugh classes A, B, and C. We compared in-hospital mortality, length of stay, hospitalization fees, readmission, and complications in non-cirrhosis cases vs. Child-Pugh class A, Child-Pugh class A vs. B, and Child-Pugh class B vs. C. RESULTS Propensity-score matching created 1065 pairs for non-cirrhosis vs. Child-Pugh class A, 1012 for Child-Pugh class A vs. B, and 489 for Child-Pugh class B vs. C. In-hospital mortality did not differ between non-cirrhosis cases and those with Child-Pugh class A. However, in-hospital mortality was significantly higher in patients with Child-Pugh class B than in those with class A (1.5 % vs. 5.9 %; RD 4.45 %; 95 % CI: 2.79%-6.10 %), and higher in patients with Child-Pugh class C compared with class B (6.3 % vs. 28.4 %; RD 22.09 %; 95 % CI: 17.54%-26.63 %). Patients in more severe Child-Pugh classes had longer hospital stays, higher hospitalization fees, and higher complication rates. CONCLUSION Patients with hip fractures and cirrhosis who are at high risk of poor postoperative outcomes could be identified. This study highlights the significantly higher in-hospital mortality observed in patients with Child-Pugh class C cirrhosis undergoing hip fracture surgery compared to those with class B. These findings underscore the need for careful risk-benefit discussions, considering the severity of cirrhosis, surgical risks, and care goals for each patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Osamu Hamada
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Takatsuki General Hospital, Osaka, Japan; Department of Healthcare Economics and Quality Management, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Takahiko Tsutsumi
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Takatsuki General Hospital, Osaka, Japan; Department of Healthcare Economics and Quality Management, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Ayako Tsunemitsu
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Takatsuki General Hospital, Osaka, Japan; Department of Healthcare Economics and Quality Management, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Noriko Sasaki
- Department of Healthcare Economics and Quality Management, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Susumu Kunisawa
- Department of Healthcare Economics and Quality Management, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Kiyohide Fushimi
- Department of Health Policy and Informatics, Tokyo Medical and Dental University Graduate School, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuichi Imanaka
- Department of Healthcare Economics and Quality Management, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan; Department of Health Security System, Centre for Health Security, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.
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Celdir MG, Wehby G, Prakash S, Tanaka T. July effect in hospitalized cirrhosis patients: A US nationwide study using difference-in-differences analysis. PLoS One 2025; 20:e0316445. [PMID: 39804918 PMCID: PMC11729967 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0316445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2024] [Accepted: 12/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/16/2025] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The July effect in US teaching hospitals has been studied with conflicting results. We aimed to evaluate the effect of physician turnover in July on the clinical outcomes of patients hospitalized with cirrhosis. METHODS We utilized the Nationwide Inpatient Sample database (2016-2019) to identify patients hospitalized with cirrhosis and liver-related complications (variceal bleeding, hepatorenal syndrome, acute-on-chronic liver failure). We used difference-in-differences analysis to compare teaching and non-teaching hospital differences in mortality and length of stay (LOS) in May and July, and trends in outcomes in other months before and after July. RESULTS We included 78,371 hospitalizations in teaching and 23,518 in non-teaching hospitals in May and July. Teaching hospital admissions had overall higher complication rates and mortality compared to non-teaching hospitals. We did not find a difference in mortality between teaching and non-teaching hospitals in all cirrhotic patients (adjusted odds ratio 1.01, 95%CI [0.88-1.16]) or in those with severe complications (0.87, [0.72-1.06]). There was greater LOS in July vs. May in teaching hospitals relative to non-teaching hospitals for all patients with cirrhosis (adjusted rate ratio 1.03, 95%CI [1.02-1.05]) and for those with severe complications (1.19, [1.17-1.21]). The months after July were associated with longer LOS in teaching hospitals, with the effect gradually diminishing over the subsequent months. CONCLUSIONS Our study suggests trainee turnover in July did not affect mortality, but lengthened hospital stays for patients with cirrhosis, highlighting the need for effective supervision of new trainees and strategies to mitigate operational disruptions for improved clinical management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melis Gokce Celdir
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States of America
| | - George Wehby
- Department of Health Management and Policy, University of Iowa College of Public Health, Iowa City, IA, United States of America
- National Bureau of Economic Research, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Shahana Prakash
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States of America
| | - Tomohiro Tanaka
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States of America
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Thiele M, Pose E, Juanola A, Mellinger J, Ginès P. Population screening for cirrhosis. Hepatol Commun 2024; 8:e0512. [PMID: 39185917 PMCID: PMC11357699 DOI: 10.1097/hc9.0000000000000512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/27/2024] Open
Abstract
In response to the growing health crisis of liver-related morbidity and mortality, screening for liver cirrhosis has emerged as a promising strategy for early detection and timely intervention. By identifying individuals with severe fibrosis or compensated cirrhosis, screening holds the promise of enhancing treatment outcomes, delaying disease progression, and ultimately improving the quality of life of affected individuals. Clinical practice guidelines from international scientific societies currently recommend targeted screening strategies, investigating high-risk populations with known risk factors of liver disease. While there is good evidence that screening increases case finding in the population, and a growing number of studies indicate that screening may motivate beneficial lifestyle changes in patients with steatotic liver disease, there are major gaps in knowledge in need of clarification before screening programs of cirrhosis are implemented. Foremost, randomized trials are needed to ensure that screening leads to improved liver-related morbidity and mortality. If not, screening for cirrhosis could be unethical due to overdiagnosis, overtreatment, increased health care costs, negative psychological consequences of screening, and futile invasive investigations. Moreover, the tests used for screening need to be optimized toward lower false positive rates than the currently used FIB-4 while retaining few false negatives. Finally, barriers to adherence to screening and implementation of screening programs need to be elucidated. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current landscape of screening strategies for liver cirrhosis and the promises and pitfalls of current methods for early cirrhosis detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maja Thiele
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Center for Liver Research, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
- Department for Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Elisa Pose
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic of Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
- August Pi I Sunyer Biomedical Research Institute, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
- Centro de Investigación En Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Spain
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Adrià Juanola
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic of Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
- August Pi I Sunyer Biomedical Research Institute, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
- Centro de Investigación En Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Spain
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Jessica Mellinger
- Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation, University of Michigan, Michigan, USA
| | - Pere Ginès
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic of Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
- August Pi I Sunyer Biomedical Research Institute, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
- Centro de Investigación En Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Spain
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
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4
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Germani G, Ferrarese A, D’Arcangelo F, Russo FP, Senzolo M, Gambato M, Zanetto A, Cillo U, Feltracco P, Persona P, Serra E, Feltrin G, Carretta G, Capizzi A, Donato D, Tessarin M, Burra P. The role of an integrated referral program for patients with liver disease: A network between hub and spoke centers. United European Gastroenterol J 2024; 12:76-88. [PMID: 38087960 PMCID: PMC10859718 DOI: 10.1002/ueg2.12475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/13/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Access to Liver transplantation (LT) can be affected by several barriers, resulting in delayed referral and increased risk of mortality due to complications of the underlying liver disease. AIM To assess the clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients with acute or chronic liver disease referred using an integrated referral program. MATERIALS AND METHODS An integrated referral program was developed in 1 October 2017 based on email addresses and a 24/7 telephone availability. All consecutive adult patients with liver disease referred for the first time using this referral program were prospectively collected until 1 October 2021. Characteristics and outcomes of inpatients were compared with a historical cohort of patients referred without using the integrated referral program (1 October 2015-1 October 2017). Patients were further divided according to pre- and post-Covid-19 pandemic. RESULTS Two hundred eighty-one referred patients were considered. End stage liver disease was the most common underlying condition (79.3%), 50.5% of patients were referred as inpatients and 74.7% were referred for LT evaluation. When inpatient referrals (n = 142) were compared with the historical cohort (n = 86), a significant increase in acute liver injury due to drugs/herbals and supplements was seen (p = 0.01) as well as an increase in End stage liver disease due to alcohol-related liver disease and NASH, although not statistically significant. A significant increase in referrals for evaluation for Trans-jugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt placement was seen over time (5.6% vs. 1%; p = 0.01) as well as for LT evaluation (84.5% vs. 81%; p = 0.01). Transplant-free survival was similar between the study and control groups (p = 0.3). The Covid-19 pandemic did not affect trends of referrals and patient survival. CONCLUSIONS The development of an integrated referral program for patients with liver disease can represent the first step to standardize already existing referral networks between hub and spoke centers. Future studies should focus on the timing of referral according to different etiologies to optimize treatment options and outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Germani
- Multivisceral Transplant UnitDepartment of Surgery, Oncology and GastroenterologyPadua University HospitalPaduaItaly
| | - Alberto Ferrarese
- Multivisceral Transplant UnitDepartment of Surgery, Oncology and GastroenterologyPadua University HospitalPaduaItaly
| | - Francesca D’Arcangelo
- Multivisceral Transplant UnitDepartment of Surgery, Oncology and GastroenterologyPadua University HospitalPaduaItaly
| | - Francesco Paolo Russo
- Multivisceral Transplant UnitDepartment of Surgery, Oncology and GastroenterologyPadua University HospitalPaduaItaly
| | - Marco Senzolo
- Multivisceral Transplant UnitDepartment of Surgery, Oncology and GastroenterologyPadua University HospitalPaduaItaly
| | - Martina Gambato
- Multivisceral Transplant UnitDepartment of Surgery, Oncology and GastroenterologyPadua University HospitalPaduaItaly
| | - Alberto Zanetto
- Multivisceral Transplant UnitDepartment of Surgery, Oncology and GastroenterologyPadua University HospitalPaduaItaly
| | - Umberto Cillo
- Hepatobiliary Surgery and Liver TransplantationDepartment of Surgery, Oncology and GastroenterologyPadua University HospitalPaduaItaly
| | | | - Paolo Persona
- Intensive Care UnitPadua University HospitalPaduaItaly
| | - Eugenio Serra
- Intensive Care UnitPadua University HospitalPaduaItaly
| | | | | | - Alfio Capizzi
- Medical DirectionPadua University HospitalPaduaItaly
| | | | | | - Patrizia Burra
- Multivisceral Transplant UnitDepartment of Surgery, Oncology and GastroenterologyPadua University HospitalPaduaItaly
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Agbalajobi O, Ebhohon E, Amuchi CB, Nzugang EC, Soladoye EO, Babajide O, Adejumo AC. National frequency, trends, and healthcare burden of care fragmentation in readmissions for end-stage liver disease in the USA. Minerva Gastroenterol (Torino) 2023; 69:470-478. [PMID: 38197846 DOI: 10.23736/s2724-5985.22.03232-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND End-stage liver disease (ESLD) patients have frequent readmissions to the same facility or a different hospital (care fragmentation). Care fragmentation results in care delivery from an unfamiliar clinical team or setting, a potential source of suboptimal clinical outcomes. We examined the occurrence, trends, and association between care fragmentation and outcomes during readmissions for ESLD. METHODS From the Nationwide Readmissions Database (January to September 2010-2014), we followed adult (age ≥18 years) hospitalizations for ESLD who were discharged alive for 90 days. During 30- and 90-day readmissions, we calculated the frequency, determinants, and clinical outcomes of care fragmentation (SAS 9.4). RESULTS Of the 67,480 ESLD hospitalizations surviving at discharge from 2010-2014, 35% (23,872) and 52% (35,549) were readmitted in 30- and 90-days respectively. During readmissions, the frequencies of care fragmentation were similar (30-day: 25.4% and 90-day: 25.8%) and remained stable from 2010 to 2014 (P trends>0.5). Similarly, factors associated with care fragmentation were consistent across 30- and 90-day readmissions. These included ages: 18-44 years, liver cancer, receipt of liver transplantation, hepatorenal syndrome, prolonged length of stay, and hospitalization in non-teaching facilities. During 30- and 90-day readmissions, care fragmentation was associated with higher risk of mortality (adjusted mean ratio: 1.13[1.03-1.24] and 1.14 [1.06-1.23]; P values<0.0001), prolonged length of stay (4.6-days vs. 4.1-days and 5.2-days vs. 4.6-days; P values<0.0001), and higher hospital charges ($36,884 vs. $28,932 and $37,354 vs. $30,851; P values<0.0001). CONCLUSIONS Care fragmentation is high among readmissions for ESLD and is associated with poorer outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ebehiwele Ebhohon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Lincoln Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Chineye B Amuchi
- School of Public Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Edwige C Nzugang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Beth Israel Lahey Health, Burlington, VT, USA
| | | | - Oyedotun Babajide
- Department of Internal Medicine, Interfaith Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Adeyinka C Adejumo
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA -
- Individualized Genomics and Health Program, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
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6
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Shah ED. Commentary on "The Impact of Vertical Integration on Physician Behavior and Healthcare Delivery: Evidence from Gastroenterology Practices". MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2023; 69:7180-7181. [PMID: 38223784 PMCID: PMC10786344 DOI: 10.1287/mnsc.2023.01831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
This paper was accepted by Stefan Scholtes, healthcare management. Conflict of Interest Statement: E. D. Shah has consulted or served on advisory boards for Ardelyx, GI Supply, Mahana, Mylan, Neuraxis, Salix, Sanofi, and Takeda. Funding: E. D. Shah is funded by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases [Grant NIH 1K23DK134752].
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric D Shah
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109
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7
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Lovett GC, Ha P, Roberts AT, Bell S, Liew D, Pianko S, Sievert W, Le STT. Healthcare utilisation and costing for decompensated chronic liver disease hospitalisations at a Victorian network. Intern Med J 2023; 53:1581-1587. [PMID: 36334267 DOI: 10.1111/imj.15962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The economic burden of decompensated chronic liver disease (CLD) on Australian healthcare services is poorly characterised. AIMS To evaluate the in-patient healthcare utilisation costs associated with decompensated CLD at Monash Health, an Australian tertiary healthcare service. METHODS The current retrospective cost analysis examined patients with decompensated CLD admitted between 1 January 2012 and 31 December 2018. Hospitalisations were identified using CLD-specific International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, codes. Cost measures were estimated using the Victorian Weighted Inlier Equivalent Separation funding data based on the Australian Refined Diagnosis Related Groups cost weights. RESULTS There were 707 hospitalisations in 435 adult patients. The mean age was 56.7 ± 11.7 years and the mean length of stay was 10.28 ± 11.2 days. Median survival was 31 months (interquartile range, 2-94 months) and 177 (40.8%) patients died within 1 year of admission. The cost of admission varied according to decompensation: hepatorenal syndrome ($20 162 AUD), variceal bleed ($16 630 AUD), spontaneous bacterial peritonitis ($12 664 AUD), hepatic encephalopathy ($9973 AUD) and ascites ($9001 AUD). There was no significant difference in the admissions or 30-day readmission rate from 2012 to 2018 financial year (FY). The total adjusted cost of cirrhotic admissions per year increased by 78% from FY2012 to FY2018. CONCLUSION Hospital admission and readmission for decompensated CLD is common and associated with 40.8% 1-year mortality and high costs. Clearer delineation of goals of care and alternative ambulatory care models for decompensated CLD are urgently required to reduce the high costs and burden on health services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace C Lovett
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Monash Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Phil Ha
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Monash Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Andrew T Roberts
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Monash Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sally Bell
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Monash Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Danny Liew
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Stephen Pianko
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Monash Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - William Sievert
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Monash Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Suong T T Le
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Monash Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Li M, Itzel T, Montagut NE, Falconer T, Daza J, Park J, Cheong JY, Park RW, Wiest I, Ebert MP, Hripcsak G, Teufel A. Impact of concomitant cardiovascular medications on overall survival in patients with liver cirrhosis. Scand J Gastroenterol 2023; 58:1505-1513. [PMID: 37608699 DOI: 10.1080/00365521.2023.2239974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 07/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES OF THE ARTICLE Liver cirrhosis is the end-stage liver disease associated with poor prognosis and cardiovascular comorbidity could significantly impact mortality of cirrhotic patients. We conducted a large, retrospective study to investigate the survival impact of cardiovascular co-medications in patients with liver cirrhosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS A study-specific R package was processed on the local databases of partner institutions within the Observational Health Data Sciences and Informatics consortium, namely Columbia University, New York City (NYC), USA and Ajou University School of Medicine (AUSOM), South Korea. Patients with cirrhosis diagnosed between 2000 and 2020 were included. Final analysis of the anonymous survival data was performed at Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University. RESULTS We investigated a total of 32,366 patients with liver cirrhosis. Our data showed that administration of antiarrhythmics amiodarone or digoxin presented as a negative prognostic indicator (p = 0.000 in both cohorts). Improved survival was associated with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor ramipril (p = 0.005 in NYC cohort, p = 0.075 in AUSOM cohort) and angiotensin II receptor blocker losartan (p = 0.000 in NYC cohort, p = 0.005 in AUSOM cohort). Non-selective beta blocker carvedilol was associated with a survival advantage in the NYC (p = 0.000) cohort but not in the AUSOM cohort (p = 0.142). Patients who took platelet inhibitor clopidogrel had a prolonged overall survival compared to those without (p = 0.000 in NYC cohort, p = 0.003 in AUSOM cohort). CONCLUSION Concomitant cardiovascular medications are associated with distinct survival difference in cirrhotic patients. Multidisciplinary management is needed for a judicious choice of proper cardiovascular co-medications in cirrhotic patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moying Li
- Department of Medicine II, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Timo Itzel
- Department of Medicine II, Division of Hepatology, Division of Bioinformatics, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Healthy Metabolism, Center for Preventive Medicine and Digital Health Baden-Württemberg (CPDBW), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | | | - Thomas Falconer
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jimmy Daza
- Department of Medicine II, Division of Hepatology, Division of Bioinformatics, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Healthy Metabolism, Center for Preventive Medicine and Digital Health Baden-Württemberg (CPDBW), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Jimyung Park
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ajou University Graduate School of Medicine, Suwon, South Korea
| | - Jae Youn Cheong
- Department of Gastroenterology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, South Korea
| | - Rae Woong Park
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ajou University Graduate School of Medicine, Suwon, South Korea
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, South Korea
| | - Isabella Wiest
- Department of Medicine II, Division of Hepatology, Division of Bioinformatics, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Healthy Metabolism, Center for Preventive Medicine and Digital Health Baden-Württemberg (CPDBW), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Matthias Philip Ebert
- Department of Medicine II, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Healthy Metabolism, Center for Preventive Medicine and Digital Health Baden-Württemberg (CPDBW), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - George Hripcsak
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Andreas Teufel
- Department of Medicine II, Division of Hepatology, Division of Bioinformatics, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Healthy Metabolism, Center for Preventive Medicine and Digital Health Baden-Württemberg (CPDBW), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
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9
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Ge J, Digitale JC, Pletcher MJ, Lai JC. Breakthrough SARS-CoV-2 infection outcomes in vaccinated patients with chronic liver disease and cirrhosis: A National COVID Cohort Collaborative study. Hepatology 2023; 77:834-850. [PMID: 36799617 PMCID: PMC9538384 DOI: 10.1002/hep.32780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Outcomes of breakthrough SARS-CoV-2 infections have not been well characterized in non-veteran vaccinated patients with chronic liver diseases (CLD). We used the National COVID Cohort Collaborative (N3C) to describe these outcomes. APPROACH AND RESULTS We identified all CLD patients with or without cirrhosis who had SARS-CoV-2 testing in the N3C Data Enclave as of January 15, 2022. We used Poisson regression to estimate incidence rates of breakthrough infections and Cox survival analyses to associate vaccination status with all-cause mortality at 30 days among infected CLD patients. We isolated 278,457 total CLD patients: 43,079 (15%) vaccinated and 235,378 (85%) unvaccinated. Of 43,079 vaccinated patients, 32,838 (76%) were without cirrhosis and 10,441 (24%) with cirrhosis. Breakthrough infection incidences were 5.4 and 4.9 per 1000 person-months for fully vaccinated CLD patients without cirrhosis and with cirrhosis, respectively. Of the 68,048 unvaccinated and 10,441 vaccinated CLD patients with cirrhosis, 15% and 3.7%, respectively, developed SARS-CoV-2 infection. The 30-day outcome of mechanical ventilation or death after SARS-CoV-2 infection for unvaccinated and vaccinated CLD patients with cirrhosis were 15.2% and 7.7%, respectively. Compared to unvaccinated patients with cirrhosis, full vaccination was associated with a 0.34-times adjusted hazard of death at 30 days. CONCLUSIONS In this N3C study, breakthrough infection rates were similar among CLD patients with and without cirrhosis. Full vaccination was associated with a 66% reduction in risk of all-cause mortality for breakthrough infection among CLD patients with cirrhosis. These results provide an additional impetus for increasing vaccination uptake in CLD populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Ge
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of California–San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Jean C. Digitale
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California–San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Mark J. Pletcher
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California–San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California–San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Jennifer C. Lai
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of California–San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
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Zijlstra MK, Gampa A, Joseph N, Sonnenberg A, Fimmel CJ. Progressive changes in platelet counts and Fib-4 scores precede the diagnosis of advanced fibrosis in NASH patients. World J Hepatol 2023; 15:225-236. [PMID: 36926233 PMCID: PMC10011908 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v15.i2.225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cirrhosis and its complications develop in a subgroup of patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NASH). Early detection of liver fibrosis represents an important goal of clinical care.
AIM To test the hypothesis that the development of cirrhosis in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease patients is preceded by the long-term trends of platelet counts and Fib-4 scores.
METHODS We identified all patients in our healthcare system who had undergone fibrosis staging by liver biopsy or magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease during the past decade (n = 310). Platelet counts, serum glutamic-pyruvic transaminase and serum glutamic oxalacetic transaminase values preceding the staging tests were extracted from the electronic medical record system, and Fib-4 scores were calculated. Potential predictors of advanced fibrosis were evaluated using multivariate regression analysis.
RESULTS Significant decreases in platelet counts and increases in Fib-4 scores were observed in all fibrosis stages, particularly in patients with cirrhosis. In the liver biopsy group, the presence of cirrhosis was best predicted by the combination of the Fib-4 score at the time closest to staging (P < 0.0001), the presence of diabetes (P = 0.0001), and the correlation coefficient of the preceding time-dependent drop in platelet count (P = 0.044). In the MRE group, Fib4 score (P = 0.0025) and platelet drop (P = 0.0373) were significant predictors. In comparison, the time-dependent rise of the Fib-4 score did not contribute in a statistically significant way.
CONCLUSION Time-dependent changes in platelet counts and Fib-4 scores contribute to the prediction of cirrhosis in NASH patients with biopsy- or MRE-staged fibrosis. Their incorporation into predictive algorithms may assist in the earlier identification of high-risk patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael K Zijlstra
- Department of Internal Medicine, NorthShore University Health System, Evanston, IL 60201, United States
| | - Anuhya Gampa
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60637, United States
| | - Nora Joseph
- Department of Pathology, NorthShore University Health System, Evanston, IL 60201, United States
| | - Amnon Sonnenberg
- Portland VA Medical Center, Portland, OR 97239, United States
- Department of Gastroenterology, Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland, OR 97201, United States
| | - Claus J Fimmel
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, NorthShore University Health System, Evanston, IL 60201, United States
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11
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O’Connell MB, Bendtsen F, Nørholm V, Brødsgaard A, Kimer N. Nurse-assisted and multidisciplinary outpatient follow-up among patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis: A systematic review. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0278545. [PMID: 36758017 PMCID: PMC9910708 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0278545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Liver cirrhosis represents a considerable health burden and causes 1.2 million deaths annually. Patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis have a poor prognosis and severely reduced health-related quality of life. Nurse-led outpatient care has proven safe and feasible for several chronic diseases and engaging nurses in the outpatient care of patients with liver cirrhosis has been recommended. At the decompensated stage, the treatment and nursing care are directed at specific complications, educational support, and guidance concerning preventive measures and signs of decompensation. This review aimed to assess the effects of nurse-assisted follow-up after admission with decompensation in patients with liver cirrhosis from all causes. METHOD A systematic search was conducted through February 2022. Studies were eligible for inclusion if i) they assessed adult patients diagnosed with liver cirrhosis that had been admitted with one or more complications to liver cirrhosis and ii) if nurse-assisted follow-up, including nurse-assisted multidisciplinary interventions, was described in the manuscript. Randomized clinical trials were prioritized, but controlled trials and prospective cohort studies with the intervention were also included. Primary outcomes were mortality and readmission, but secondary subjective outcomes were also assessed. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION We included eleven controlled studies and five prospective studies with a historical control group comprising 1224 participants. Overall, the studies were of moderate to low quality, and heterogeneity across studies was substantial. In a descriptive summary, the 16 studies were divided into three main types of interventions: educational interventions, case management, and standardized hospital follow-up. We saw a significant improvement across all types of studies on several parameters, but currently, no data support a specific type of nurse-assisted, post-discharge intervention. Controlled trials with a predefined intervention evaluating clinically- and practice-relevant endpoints in a real-life, patient-oriented setting are highly warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malene Barfod O’Connell
- Gastrounit, Medical Division, Copenhagen University Hospital Amager Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
- * E-mail:
| | - Flemming Bendtsen
- Gastrounit, Medical Division, Copenhagen University Hospital Amager Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Vibeke Nørholm
- Clinical Research Department, Copenhagen University Hospital Amager Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Anne Brødsgaard
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital Amager Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
- Department of Public Health, Section for Nursing, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Nina Kimer
- Gastrounit, Medical Division, Copenhagen University Hospital Amager Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
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12
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Rising Healthcare Costs and Utilization among Young Adults with Cirrhosis in Ontario: A Population-Based Study. Can J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 2022:6175913. [PMID: 35308801 PMCID: PMC8926479 DOI: 10.1155/2022/6175913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Chronic diseases account for the majority of healthcare spending. Cirrhosis is a chronic disease whose burden is rising, especially in young adults. This study aimed at describing the direct healthcare costs and utilization in young adults with cirrhosis compared to other chronic diseases common to this age group. METHODS Retrospective population-based study of routinely collected healthcare data from Ontario for the fiscal years 2007-2016 and housed at ICES. Young adults (aged 18-40 years) with cirrhosis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and asthma were identified based on validated case definitions. Total and annual direct healthcare costs and utilization were calculated per individual across multiple healthcare settings and compared based on the type of chronic disease. For cirrhosis, the results were further stratified by etiology and decompensation status. RESULTS Total direct healthcare spending from 2007 to 2016 increased by 84% for cirrhosis, 50% for IBD, and 41% for asthma. On a per-patient basis, annual costs were the highest for cirrhosis ($6,581/year) compared to IBD ($5,260/year), and asthma ($2,934/year) driven by acute care in cirrhosis and asthma, and drug costs in IBD. Annual costs were four-fold higher in patients with decompensated versus compensated cirrhosis ($20,651/year vs. $5,280/year). Patients with cirrhosis had greater use of both ICU and mental health services. CONCLUSION Healthcare costs in young adults with cirrhosis are rising and driven by the use of acute care. Strategies to prevent the development of cirrhosis and to coordinate healthcare in this population through the development of chronic disease prevention and management strategies are urgently needed.
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13
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Javier SJ, Wu J, Smith DL, Kanwal F, Martin LA, Clark J, Midboe AM. A Web-Based, Population-Based Cirrhosis Identification and Management System for Improving Cirrhosis Care: Qualitative Formative Evaluation. JMIR Form Res 2021; 5:e27748. [PMID: 34751653 PMCID: PMC8663449 DOI: 10.2196/27748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cirrhosis, or scarring of the liver, is a debilitating condition that affects millions of US adults. Early identification, linkage to care, and retention of care are critical for preventing severe complications and death from cirrhosis. Objective The purpose of this study is to conduct a preimplementation formative evaluation to identify factors that could impact implementation of the Population-Based Cirrhosis Identification and Management System (P-CIMS) in clinics serving patients with cirrhosis. P-CIMS is a web-based informatics tool designed to facilitate patient outreach and cirrhosis care management. Methods Semistructured interviews were conducted between January and May 2016 with frontline providers in liver disease and primary care clinics at 3 Veterans Health Administration medical centers. A total of 10 providers were interviewed, including 8 physicians and midlevel providers from liver-related specialty clinics and 2 primary care providers who managed patients with cirrhosis. The Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research guided the development of the interview guides. Inductive consensus coding and content analysis were used to analyze transcribed interviews and abstracted coded passages, elucidated themes, and insights. Results The following themes and subthemes emerged from the analyses: outer setting: needs and resources for patients with cirrhosis; inner setting: readiness for implementation (subthemes: lack of resources, lack of leadership support), and implementation climate (subtheme: competing priorities); characteristics of individuals: role within clinic; knowledge and beliefs about P-CIMS (subtheme: perceived and realized benefits; useful features; suggestions for improvement); and perceptions of current practices in managing cirrhosis cases (subthemes: preimplementation process for identifying and linking patients to cirrhosis care; structural and social barriers to follow-up). Overall, P-CIMS was viewed as a powerful tool for improving linkage and retention, but its integration in the clinical workflow required leadership support, time, and staffing. Providers also cited the need for more intuitive interface elements to enhance usability. Conclusions P-CIMS shows promise as a powerful tool for identifying, linking, and retaining care in patients living with cirrhosis. The current evaluation identified several improvements and advantages of P-CIMS over current care processes and provides lessons for others implementing similar population-based identification and management tools in populations with chronic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah J Javier
- Center for Innovation to Implementation (Ci2i), VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Menlo Park, CA, United States
| | - Justina Wu
- Center for Innovation to Implementation (Ci2i), VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Menlo Park, CA, United States
| | - Donna L Smith
- Center for Innovations in Quality, Effectiveness and Safety (IQuESt), Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Fasiha Kanwal
- Center for Innovations in Quality, Effectiveness and Safety (IQuESt), Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, TX, United States.,Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States.,Section of Health Services Research, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Lindsey A Martin
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), Division of Extramural Research & Training, Population Health Branch, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
| | - Jack Clark
- Department of Health Law, Policy, and Management, School of Public Health, Boston University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Amanda M Midboe
- Center for Innovation to Implementation (Ci2i), VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Menlo Park, CA, United States.,Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
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14
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Eliciting and Understanding Primary Care and Specialist Mental Models of Cirrhosis Care: A Cognitive Task Analysis Study. Can J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2021; 2021:5582297. [PMID: 34222136 PMCID: PMC8219466 DOI: 10.1155/2021/5582297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Revised: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gaps in coordination and transitions of care for liver cirrhosis contribute to high rates of hospital readmissions and inadequate quality of care. Understanding the differences in the mental models held by specialty and primary care physicians may help to identify the root causes of problems in the coordination of cirrhosis care. AIM To compare and identify differences in the mental models of cirrhosis care held by primary and specialty care physicians and nurse practitioners that may be addressed to improve coordination and transitions. METHODS Cross-sectional formal elicitation of mental models using Cognitive Task Analysis. Purposive and chain-referral sampling to select family physicians (n = 8), specialists (n = 9), and cirrhosis-dedicated nurse practitioners (n = 2) across Alberta. RESULTS Family physicians do not maintain rich mental models of cirrhosis care. They see cirrhosis patients relatively infrequently, rebuilding their mental models when required (knowledge on demand). They have reactive and patient-need-focused, rather than proactive and system-of-care, mental models. Specialists' mental models are rich but vary widely between patient-centered and task-centered and in the degree to which they incorporate responsibility for addressing system gaps. Nurse practitioners hold patient-centered mental models like specialists but take responsibility for addressing gaps in the system. CONCLUSIONS Improving the coordination of cirrhosis care will require infrastructure to design care pathways and work processes that will support family physicians' knowledge-on-demand needs, facilitate primary care-specialist relationships, and deliberately work toward building a shared mental model of responsibilities for addressing medical care and social determinants of health.
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15
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Hyde AM, Watt M, Carbonneau M, Eboreime EA, Abraldes JG, Tandon P. Understanding Preferences Toward Virtual Care: A Pre-COVID Mixed Methods Study Exploring the Perspectives of Patients with Chronic Liver Disease. Telemed J E Health 2021; 28:407-414. [PMID: 34085869 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2021.0099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Traditionally, outpatient visits for those with chronic liver disease (CLD) have been delivered in-person with the patient traveling to a centralized location to see the health care provider. The use of virtual care in health care delivery has been gaining popularity across a variety of patient populations, especially within the COVID-19 context. Performed before COVID-19, the aim of the present study was to explore the perspectives of patients with CLD toward the use of virtual care with their liver specialists. Methods: A cross-sectional, mixed methods study was used to conduct this work. Results: A total of 101 patients with CLD participated in this study. Participants had a mean age of 54.5 years (range 19-87 years). Quantitative analysis revealed that 86% were willing to attend a virtual visit with their liver specialist in the future. There was a significant relationship between both age and income level and acceptance of virtual care. The themes emerging from the qualitative analysis included: (1) past experiences attending in-person visits, (2) perspectives on the use of virtual visits, and (3) perceived challenges of virtual visits. Conclusions: Although there are many potential benefits of virtual care to both the patient and the health care system, there are instances (older age, low income level) when in-person care may be preferred by patients. A tailored approach that is mindful of the individual patient's health status, ease of access to technology, and preferences must be considered when offering virtual care. These findings are of particular relevance during COVID-19, an era that has forced us into the virtual space.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley M Hyde
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Makayla Watt
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Michelle Carbonneau
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada.,Alberta Health Services, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Ejemai Amaize Eboreime
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Juan G Abraldes
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada.,Centre of Excellence for Gastrointestinal Inflammation and Immunity Research (CEGIIR), University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Puneeta Tandon
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada.,Centre of Excellence for Gastrointestinal Inflammation and Immunity Research (CEGIIR), University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
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16
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Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) affects numerous stakeholders from a clinical, psychosocial, and financial perspective. The multilayered impact of HE is threefold and affects different groups or, for the purpose of this commentary, villages. The first village mediates HE development, including genetics, microbiome, and disease severity. The second village consists of those affected by HE-related consequences, including the patient, caregivers, society, and medical system. The third village required to manage HE includes a multidisciplinary team of inpatient and outpatient providers, mental health experts, physical therapists, and dietary specialists. Understanding and integration of these three villages can encourage individualized care for patients and families affected by hepatic encephalopathy.
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17
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Carbonneau M, Davyduke T, Congly SE, Ma MM, Newnham K, Den Heyer V, Tandon P, Abraldes JG. Impact of specialized multidisciplinary care on cirrhosis outcomes and acute care utilization. CANADIAN LIVER JOURNAL 2021; 4:38-50. [PMID: 35991472 PMCID: PMC9203164 DOI: 10.3138/canlivj-2020-0017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 09/27/2020] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
Background Multidisciplinary care has the potential to improve outcomes among patients with cirrhosis, yet its impact on this population remains unclear, with existing studies demonstrating discrepant results. Using data from the multidisciplinary outpatient Cirrhosis Care Clinic (CCC) at the University of Alberta Hospital, we aimed to evaluate acute care utilization and survival outcomes of patients followed by the CCC compared with those receiving standard care (SC). Methods We performed a retrospective chart review of 212 patients with cirrhosis admitted to University of Alberta Hospital between 2014 and 2015. CCC patients (n = 36) were followed through the CCC before index admission. SC patients (n = 176) were managed outside of the CCC. Readmission time in hospital was collected until 1 year, death, or liver transplant. Results CCC patients had more advanced liver disease (higher prevalence of ascites, encephalopathy, and varices). Despite this, acute care utilization was significantly lower among CCC patients (adjusted length of stay lower by 3 days, p = 0.03, and adjusted survival days spent in hospital lower by 9%, p = 0.02). CCC patients also had improved 1-year transplant-free survival, with an adjusted 1-year relative risk reduction of 53% (p = 0.03). Total mean cost of care was lower in the CCC group by $2,280 per patient-month of life. Discussion For patients admitted with cirrhosis, specialized post-discharge multidisciplinary outpatient care is associated with decreased acute care utilization, improved 1-year transplant-free survival probability, and the potential for cost savings to the system.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tracy Davyduke
- Hepatology Department, Alberta Health Services, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Stephen E Congly
- Liver Unit, Division of Gastroenterology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Mang M Ma
- Liver Unit, Division of Gastroenterology, Centre of Excellence for Gastrointestinal Inflammation and Immunity Research, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Kim Newnham
- Hepatology Department, Alberta Health Services, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Vanessa Den Heyer
- Hepatology Department, Alberta Health Services, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Puneeta Tandon
- Liver Unit, Division of Gastroenterology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Liver Unit, Division of Gastroenterology, Centre of Excellence for Gastrointestinal Inflammation and Immunity Research, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Juan G Abraldes
- Liver Unit, Division of Gastroenterology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Liver Unit, Division of Gastroenterology, Centre of Excellence for Gastrointestinal Inflammation and Immunity Research, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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18
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ASSESSMENT OF THE FREQUENCY AND RATIONALITY OF PRESCRIBED MEDICINES IN PATIENTS WITH LIVER CIRRHOSIS. EUREKA: HEALTH SCIENCES 2021. [DOI: 10.21303/2504-5679.2021.001599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim. Assessment of the dynamics of prescribing drugs to patients with liver cirrhosis (LC, K 74), in terms of real clinical practice by methods of clinical and economic analysis.
Materials and methods. 355 medical cards of inpatients with cirrhosis of the liver, which were divided into 4 groups depending on the period of stay of patients in the hospital. Methods: compatible retrospective ABC-frequency analysis, which ranked drugs consumed by patients in real clinical practice, according to the frequency of appointment using ABC-segmentation according to the Pareto principle (A – 80 % of drugs appointments: B – 15 %: C – 5 %); VEN-analysis, which divides the consumed drugs on a formal basis depending on the presence / absence of a particular drug in the regulations: vital (Vital or V), necessary (Essential or E) and secondary (Non-essential or N).
Results. Cirrhosis of the liver in recent years has been on the 10th - 11th place among the causes of death in the world. The analysis of prescribed drugs to patients with LC in real clinical practice in Ivano-Frankivsk region of Ukraine revealed that over the years doctors prescribed fewer drugs on average per patient (11.4 drugs → 8.8 drugs), which can be considered a positive fact. Among the prescribed drugs, drugs of group A – “Drugs that affect the digestive system and metabolism” prevailed, the share of which increased and was the highest in 2019 – 2020 (2007–2009 – 44.6 %; 2012–2013 – 46.6 %; 2015–2016 – 48.1 %; 2019–2020 – 48.55 %); the share of dietary supplements also increased from 1.65 % to 6.52 %.
Conclusions. Combined ABC-frequency and VEN-analyzes showed that the leaders in the years of hospital stay were the following drugs: Sodium chloride, Ademetionine, Pantoprazole, Spironolactone, Thioctic acid, Ornithine, Asparaginate K-Mg, Torasemide, Furosemide. However, the vital class V included only 9–11 % of drugs from the whole set of prescribed drugs, which requires systemic correction in accordance with European recommendations.
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19
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Cohen-Mekelburg S, Waljee AK, Kenney BC, Tapper EB. Coordination of Care Is Associated With Survival and Health Care Utilization in a Population-Based Study of Patients With Cirrhosis. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2020; 18:2340-2348.e3. [PMID: 31927111 PMCID: PMC7875119 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2019.12.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Revised: 12/19/2019] [Accepted: 12/31/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Improving care coordination for patients with high-intensity specialty care needs, such as cirrhosis, can increase quality of healthcare and reduce utilization. We examined the relationship between care concentration and risk of hospitalization for patients with cirrhosis. METHODS We performed a retrospective cohort study of 26,006 Medicare enrollees with cirrhosis with more than 4 outpatient visits over 180 days. We collected data on 2 validated measures of care concentration: the usual provider of care (UPC) index, a measure of the proportion of a patient's total visits that is with their most regularly seen provider, and the continuity of care (COC) index, a measure of care density and dispersion. Both use a scale of 0 to 1. Time to death or liver transplantation was evaluated using a multivariable Cox proportional hazards model. Hospital days and 30-day readmissions per person-year were evaluated in negative binomial models. RESULTS The median COC score was 0.40 (interquartile range, 0.26-0.60) and the median UPC was 0.60 (interquartile range, 0.50-0.80). Increasing care concentration (based on COC and UPC index scores) were associated with increased mortality and hospitalization. The highest 25th percentile of COC and UPC scores were associated with adjusted hazard ratios for mortality of 1.20 (95% CI, 1.10-1.31) and 1.14 (95% CI, 1.06-1.24), adjusted incidence rate ratios for hospital days of 1.12 (95% CI, 1.02-1.23) and 1.10 (95% CI, 1.01-1.20), and adjusted incidence rate ratios for readmissions of 1.19 (95% CI, 1.06-1.34) and 1.12 (95% CI, 1.00-1.25), respectively. CONCLUSIONS Based on a study of Medicare enrollees, care concentration is low among patients with cirrhosis. However, increased concentration is associated with increased mortality and increased healthcare utilization. These data indicate that, to optimize outcomes for persons with cirrhosis, team-based care might be necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shirley Cohen-Mekelburg
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan; Gastroenterology Section, VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, Michigan; Center for Clinical Management Research, VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, Michigan; Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan.
| | - Akbar K. Waljee
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan;,Gastroenterology Section, VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, Michigan;,Center for Clinical Management Research, VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, Michigan;,Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan;,Michigan Integrated Center for Health Analytics and Medical Prediction, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Brooke C. Kenney
- Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Elliot B. Tapper
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan;,Gastroenterology Section, VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, Michigan;,Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
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20
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Serper M, Cubell AW, Deleener ME, Casher TK, Rosenberg DJ, Whitebloom D, Rosin RM. Telemedicine in Liver Disease and Beyond: Can the COVID-19 Crisis Lead to Action? Hepatology 2020; 72:723-728. [PMID: 32275784 PMCID: PMC7262294 DOI: 10.1002/hep.31276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2020] [Revised: 03/28/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Evidence strongly supports that access to specialty gastroenterology or hepatology care in cirrhosis is associated with higher adherence to guideline-recommended care and improves clinical outcomes. Presently, only about one half of acute care hospitalizations for cirrhosis-related complications result in inpatient specialty care, and the current hepatology workforce cannot meet the demand of patients with liver disease nationwide, particularly in less densely populated areas and in community-based practices not affiliated with academic centers. Telemedicine, defined as the delivery of health care services at a distance using electronic means for diagnosis and treatment, holds tremendous promise to increase access to broadly specialty care. The technology is cheap and easy to use, although it is presently limited in scale by interstate licensing restrictions and reimbursement barriers. The outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 and coronavirus disease 2019 has, in the short term, accelerated the growth of telemedicine delivery as a public health and social distancing measure. Herein, we examine whether this public health crisis can accelerate the national conversation about broader adoption of telemedicine for routine medical care in non-crisis situations, using a case series from our telehepatology program as a pragmatic example.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Serper
- Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyUniversity of Pennsylvania Perelman School of MedicinePhiladelphiaPA,Leonard Davis Institute of Health EconomicsUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Roy M. Rosin
- Leonard Davis Institute of Health EconomicsUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPA,Penn MedicineUniversity of Pennsylvania Health SystemPhiladelphiaPA
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21
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Shaw J, Bajaj JS. Is There Evidence of the Hawthorne Effect in Quality Improvement of Nutritional Consultation in Inpatients With Cirrhosis? Liver Transpl 2020; 26:1049-1051. [PMID: 32378320 DOI: 10.1002/lt.25791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2020] [Revised: 04/14/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jawaid Shaw
- Division of Hospital Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA
| | - Jasmohan S Bajaj
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Virginia Commonwealth University and McGuire Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Richmond, VA
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22
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Tennakoon L, Baiu I, Concepcion W, Melcher ML, Spain DA, Knowlton LM. Understanding Health Care Utilization and Mortality After Emergency General Surgery in Patients With Underlying Liver Disease. Am Surg 2020; 86:665-674. [PMID: 32683972 DOI: 10.1177/0003134820923304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mortality and complications are not well defined nationally for emergency general surgery (EGS) patients presenting with underlying all-cause liver disease (LD). STUDY DESIGN We analyzed the 2012-2014 National Inpatient Sample for adults (aged ≥ 18 years) with a primary EGS diagnosis. Underlying LD included International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification codes for alcoholic and viral hepatitis, malignancy, congenital etiologies, and cirrhosis. The primary outcome was mortality; secondary outcomes included complications, operative intervention, and costs. RESULTS Of the 6.8 million EGS patients, 358 766 (5.3%) had underlying LD. 59.1% had cirrhosis, 6.7% had portal hypertension, and 13.7% had ascites. Compared with other EGS patients, EGS-LD patients had higher mean costs ($12 847 vs $10 234, P < .001). EGS-LD patients were less likely to have surgery (26.1% vs 37.0%, P < .001) but for those who did, mortality was higher (4.8% vs 1.8%, P < .001). Risk factors for mortality included ascites (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 2.68, P < .001), dialysis (aOR = 3.44, P < .001), sepsis (aOR = 8.97, P < .001), and respiratory failure requiring intubation (aOR = 10.40, P < .001). Odds of death increased in both surgical (aOR = 4.93, P < .001) and non-surgical EGS-LD patients (aOR = 2.56, P < .001). CONCLUSIONS Underlying all-cause LD among EGS patients is associated with increased in-hospital mortality, even in the absence of surgical intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lakshika Tennakoon
- 6429 Department of Surgery, Division of General Surgery, Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Ioana Baiu
- 6429 Department of Surgery, Division of General Surgery, Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Waldo Concepcion
- 6429 Department of Surgery, Division of Abdominal Transplantation, Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Marc L Melcher
- 6429 Department of Surgery, Division of Abdominal Transplantation, Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - David A Spain
- 6429 Department of Surgery, Division of General Surgery, Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Lisa M Knowlton
- 6429 Department of Surgery, Division of General Surgery, Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, CA, USA
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Vorobioff JD, Contreras F, Tanno F, Hernández L, Bessone F, Colombato L, Adi J, Fassio E, Felgueres M, Fernández G, Gaite L, Gibelli D, Darrichon HG, Lafage M, Lombardo D, López S, Mateo A, Mendizábal M, Pecoraro J, Ruf A, Ruiz P, Severini J, Stieben T, Sixto M, Zárate F, Barraza SDLB, Sierra ID, Pacheco VR, Roblero JP, Rojas JO, González PR, Rodríguez DSM, Sierralta A, Manchego AU, Valdes E, Yaquich P, Wolff R, Valdivia FB, Gallegos RC, Galloso R, Marcelo JS, Montes P, Tenorio L, Veramendi I, Alava E, Armijos X, Benalcazar G, Carrera E, Pazmiño GF, Díaz EM, Garassini M, Marrero RP, Infante M, Suárez DP, Gutiérrez JC, Reyes CMV, Serrano YM, Hernández RH, Martínez OM, González TP, Andara MT, Hernández MS, Gerona S, García I, Tijera FDL, López EP, Torres K, Garzón M. A Latin American survey on demographic aspects of hospitalized, decompensated cirrhotic patients and the resources for their management. Ann Hepatol 2020; 19:396-403. [PMID: 32418749 DOI: 10.1016/j.aohep.2020.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Revised: 03/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION & OBJECTIVES Liver cirrhosis is a major cause of mortality worldwide. Adequate diagnosis and treatment of decompensating events requires of both medical skills and updated technical resources. The objectives of this study were to search the demographic profile of hospitalized cirrhotic patients in a group of Latin American hospitals and the availability of expertise/facilities for the diagnosis and therapy of decompensation episodes. METHODS A cross sectional, multicenter survey of hospitalized cirrhotic patients. RESULTS 377 patients, (62% males; 58±11 years) (BMI>25, 57%; diabetes 32%) were hospitalized at 65 centers (63 urbans; 57 academically affiliated) in 13 countries on the survey date. Main admission causes were ascites, gastrointestinal bleeding, hepatic encephalopathy and spontaneous bacterial peritonitis/other infections. Most prevalent etiologies were alcohol-related (AR) (40%); non-alcoholic-steatohepatitis (NASH) (23%), hepatitis C virus infection (HCV) (7%) and autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) (6%). The most frequent concurrent etiologies were AR+NASH. Expertise and resources in every analyzed issue were highly available among participating centers, mostly accomplishing valid guidelines. However, availability of these facilities was significantly higher at institutions located in areas with population>500,000 (n=45) and in those having a higher complexity level (Gastrointestinal, Liver and Internal Medicine Departments at the same hospital (n=22). CONCLUSIONS The epidemiological etiologic profile in hospitalized, decompensated cirrhotic patients in Latin America is similar to main contemporary emergent agents worldwide. Medical and technical resources are highly available, mostly at great population urban areas and high complexity medical centers. Main diagnostic and therapeutic approaches accomplish current guidelines recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julio D Vorobioff
- Gastroenterology Department & Liver Unit, Hospital Provincial del Centenario, Rosario, Argentina.
| | - Fernando Contreras
- Gastroenterology Department, Hospital Luis E. Aybar, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
| | - Federico Tanno
- Gastroenterology Department & Liver Unit, Hospital Provincial del Centenario, Rosario, Argentina
| | - Lucía Hernández
- Facultad de Ciencias Económicas y Estadística, Universidad de Rosario, Argentina
| | - Fernando Bessone
- Gastroenterology Department & Liver Unit, Hospital Provincial del Centenario, Rosario, Argentina
| | - Luis Colombato
- Gastroenterology Department, & Liver Unit, Hospital Británico, CABA, Argentina
| | - José Adi
- Gastroenterology Department, Hospital Lagomaggiore, Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Eduardo Fassio
- Gastroenterology Department & Liver Unit, Hospital Alejandro Posadas, El Palomar, Argentina
| | | | | | - Luis Gaite
- Gastroenterology Department, Hospital Cullen, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Diana Gibelli
- Gastroenterology Department, Hospital San Roque, Córdoba, Argentina
| | | | - Matías Lafage
- Gastroenterology Department, Instituto Lanari, CABA, Argentina
| | - Daniel Lombardo
- Gastroenterology Department, Hospital Angel Padilla, Tucumán, Argentina
| | - Susana López
- Gastroenterology Department, Hospital Juan Garraham, CABA, Argentina
| | - Alejandro Mateo
- Gastroenterology Department, Hospital Eva Perón, Granadero Baigorria, Argentina
| | | | | | - Andrés Ruf
- Liver Unit, Hospital Privado, Rosario, Argentina
| | - Pablo Ruiz
- Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Regional, Río Gallegos, Argentina
| | - Javier Severini
- Internal Medicine Department, Hospital Alberdi, Rosario, Argentina
| | - Teodoro Stieben
- Gastroenterology Department, Hospital San Martín, Paraná, Argentina
| | - Marcela Sixto
- Gastroenterology Department, Hospital Jaime Ferré, Rafaela, Argentina
| | - Fabián Zárate
- Gastroenterology Department, Hospital Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | | | | | | | - Juan P Roblero
- Gastroenterology Department, Hospital San Borja Arriaran, Santiago, Chile
| | - Juan O Rojas
- Gastroenterology Department, Hospital Dr. Sotero del Río, Santiago, Chile
| | | | | | | | - Alvaro Urzúa Manchego
- Gastroenterology & Liver Unit, Hospital Clínico Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Eliana Valdes
- Gastroenterology Department, Hospital Regional de Talca, Talca, Chile
| | - Pamela Yaquich
- Gastroenterology Department, Hospital San Juan de Dios, Santiago, Chile
| | - Rodrigo Wolff
- Gastroenterology Department & Liver Unit, Hospital Clínico, Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | | | | | - Rocío Galloso
- Gastroenterology Department, Hospital San José, Callao, Peru
| | - Julio S Marcelo
- Gastroenterology Department, Hospital Villa El Salvador, Lima, Peru
| | - Pedro Montes
- Gastroenterology Department, Hospital Nacional Daniel A. Carrión, Callao, Peru
| | - Laura Tenorio
- Gastroenterology Department & Liver Unit, Hospital Edgardo Rebagliati, Lima, Peru
| | - Isabel Veramendi
- Gastroenterology Department, Hospital Hipólito Unanue, Lima, Peru
| | - Elizabeth Alava
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Verdi Ceballos, Portoviejo, Ecuador
| | - Ximena Armijos
- Gastroenterology Department & Liver Unit, Hospital Andrade Marín, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Gonzalo Benalcazar
- Gastroenterology Department & Liver Unit, Hospital Luis Vernaza, Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | - Enrique Carrera
- Gastroenterology Department, Hospital Eugenio Espejo, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Galo F Pazmiño
- Gastroenterology Department, Hospital de Especialidades FFAA, Quito, Ecuador
| | | | - Miguel Garassini
- Gastroenterology Department, Centro Médico La Trinidad, Caracas, Venezuela
| | - Rosalía P Marrero
- Gastroenterology Department, Hospital Pérez Carreño, Caracas, Venezuela
| | - Mirta Infante
- Sociedad Cubana de Gastroenterología, La Habana, Cuba
| | - Dayron Páez Suárez
- Gastroenterology Department, Hospital Hermanos Ameijeiras, La Habana, Cuba
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - María T Andara
- Instituto Hondureño de la Seguridad Social, Tegucigalpa, Honduras
| | | | - Solange Gerona
- Liver Unit, Hospital de Fuerzas Armadas, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Iván García
- Gastroenterology Department, Hospital Rooselvet, Guatemala, Guatemala
| | - Fátima de la Tijera
- Gastroenterology Department & Liver Unit, Hospital General de Mexico Dr. E. Liceaga, Ciudad de Mexico, Mexico
| | | | | | - Martín Garzón
- Gastroenterology Department, Hospital de la Samaritana, Bogotá, Colombia
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Tapper EB, Aberasturi D, Zhao Z, Hsu CY, Parkih ND. Outcomes after hepatic encephalopathy in population-based cohorts of patients with cirrhosis. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2020; 51:1397-1405. [PMID: 32363684 PMCID: PMC7266029 DOI: 10.1111/apt.15749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2019] [Revised: 01/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatic encephalopathy is a devastating complication of cirrhosis. AIM To describe the outcomes after developing hepatic encephalopathy among contemporary, aging patients. METHODS We examined data for a 20% random sample of United States Medicare enrolees with cirrhosis and Part D prescription coverage from 2008 to 2014. Among 49 164 persons with hepatic encephalopathy, we evaluated the associations with transplant-free survival using Cox proportional hazard models with time-varying covariates (hazard ratios, HR) and incidence rate ratios (IRR) for healthcare utilisation measured in hospital-days and 30-day readmissions per person-year. We validated our findings in an external cohort of 2184 privately insured patients with complete laboratory values. RESULTS Hepatic encephalopathy was associated with median survivals of 0.95 and 2.5 years for those ≥65 or <65 years old and 1.1 versus 3.9 years for those with and without ascites. Non-alcoholic fatty-liver disease posed the highest adjusted risk of death among aetiologies, HR 1.07 95% CI (1.02, 1.12). Both gastroenterology consultation and rifaximin utilisation were associated with lower mortality, respective adjusted-HR 0.73 95% CI (0.67, 0.80) and 0.40 95% CI (0.39, 0.42). Thirty-day readmissions were fewer for patients seen by gastroenterologists (0.71 95% CI [0.57-0.88]) and taking rifaximin (0.18 95% CI [0.08-0.40]). Lactulose alone was associated with fewer hospital-days, IRR 0.31 95% CI (0.30-0.32), than rifaximin alone, 0.49 95% CI (0.45-0.53), but the optimal therapy combination was lactulose/rifaximin, IRR 0.28 95% CI (0.27-0.30). These findings were validated in the privately insured cohort adjusting for model for endstage liver disease-sodium score and serum albumin. CONCLUSIONS Hepatic encephalopathy remains morbid and associated with poor outcomes among contemporary patients. Gastroenterology consultation and combination lactulose-rifaximin are both associated with improved outcomes. These data inform the development of care coordination efforts for subjects with cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elliot B. Tapper
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Michigan,Gastroenterology Section, VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor
| | | | - Zhe Zhao
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Michigan
| | - Chia-Yang Hsu
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Michigan
| | - Neehar D. Parkih
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Michigan
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Valery PC, Clark PJ, Pratt G, Bernardes CM, Hartel G, Toombs M, Irvine KM, Powell EE. Hospitalisation for cirrhosis in Australia: disparities in presentation and outcomes for Indigenous Australians. Int J Equity Health 2020; 19:27. [PMID: 32066438 PMCID: PMC7027067 DOI: 10.1186/s12939-020-1144-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2019] [Accepted: 02/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Indigenous Australians experience greater health disadvantage and have a higher prevalence of many chronic health conditions. Liver diseases leading to cirrhosis are among the most common contributor to the mortality gap between Indigenous and other Australian adults. However, no comparative data exist assessing differences in presentation and patient outcomes between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians hospitalised with cirrhosis. METHODS Using data from the Hospital Admitted Patient Data Collection and the Death Registry, this retrospective, population-based, cohort study including all people hospitalised for cirrhosis in the state of Queensland during 2008-2017 examined rate of readmission (Poisson regression), cumulative survival (Kaplan-Meier), and assessed the differences in survival (Multivariable Cox regression) by Indigenous status. Predictor variables included demographic, health service characteristics and clinical data. RESULTS We studied 779 Indigenous and 10,642 non-Indigenous patients with cirrhosis. A higher proportion of Indigenous patients were younger than 50 years (346 [44%] vs. 2063 [19%] non-Indigenous patients), lived in most disadvantaged areas (395 [51%) vs. 2728 [26%]), had alcohol-related cirrhosis (547 [70%] vs. 5041 [47%]), had ascites (314 [40%] vs. 3555 [33%), and presented to hospital via the Emergency Department (510 [68%] vs. 4790 [47%]). Indigenous patients had 3.04 times the rate of non-cirrhosis readmissions (95%CI 2.98-3.10), 1.35 times the rate of cirrhosis-related readmissions (95%CI 1.29-1.41), and lower overall survival (17% vs. 27%; unadjusted hazard ratio (HR) = 1.16 95%CI 1.06-1.27), compared to non-Indigenous patients. Most of the survival deficit was explained by Emergency Department presentation (adj-HR = 1.03 95%CI 0.93-1.13), and alcohol-related aetiology (adj-HR = 1.08 95%CI 0.99-1.19). The remaining survival deficit was influenced by the other clinico-demographic and health service factors (final adj-HR = 1.08 95%CI 0.96-1.20). CONCLUSIONS There was evidence of differential presentation, higher rates of readmissions, and poorer survival for Indigenous Australians with cirrhosis, compared to other Australians. The increased prevalence of Emergency Department presentation among Indigenous patients suggests missed opportunities for early intervention to prevent progressive cirrhosis complications and hospital readmissions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia C Valery
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, 300 Herston Road, Herston, QLD, 4006, Australia.
- Centre for Liver Disease Research, Translational Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.
| | - Paul J Clark
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mater Hospitals, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Gregory Pratt
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, 300 Herston Road, Herston, QLD, 4006, Australia
| | - Christina M Bernardes
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, 300 Herston Road, Herston, QLD, 4006, Australia
| | - Gunter Hartel
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, 300 Herston Road, Herston, QLD, 4006, Australia
| | - Maree Toombs
- Rural Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Toowoomba, QLD, Australia
| | - Katharine M Irvine
- Centre for Liver Disease Research, Translational Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- Mater Research, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Elizabeth E Powell
- Centre for Liver Disease Research, Translational Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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Tapper EB, Hao S, Lin M, Mafi JN, McCurdy H, Parikh ND, Lok AS. The Quality and Outcomes of Care Provided to Patients with Cirrhosis by Advanced Practice Providers. Hepatology 2020; 71:225-234. [PMID: 31063262 PMCID: PMC6834870 DOI: 10.1002/hep.30695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2018] [Accepted: 05/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Cirrhosis is morbid and increasingly prevalent, yet the U.S. health care system lacks enough physicians and specialists to adequately manage patients with cirrhosis. Although advanced practice providers (APPs) can expand access to cirrhosis-related care, their impact on the quality of care remains unknown. We sought to determine the effect on care quality and outcomes for patients managed by APPs using a retrospective analysis of a nationally representative American commercial claims database (Optum), which included 389,257 unique adults with cirrhosis. We evaluated a complication of process measures (i.e., rates of hepatocellular carcinoma [HCC] screening, endoscopic varices screening, and use of rifaximin after hospitalization for hepatic encephalopathy) and outcomes (30-day readmissions and survival). Compared with patients without APP care, patients with APP care had higher rates of HCC screening (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 1.23, 95% confidence interval 1.19, 1.27), varices screening (OR 1.20 [1.13, 1.27]), use of rifaximin after a discharge for hepatic encephalopathy (OR 2.09 [1.80, 2.43]), and reduced risk of 30-day readmission (OR 0.68 [0.66, 0.70]). Gastroenterology/hepatology consultation was also associated with improved quality metric performance compared with primary care; however, shared visits between gastroenterologists/hepatologists and APPs were associated with the best performance and lower 30-day readmissions compared with subspecialty consultation without an APP (OR 0.91 [0.87, 0.95]. Multivariate analysis adjusting for comorbidities, liver disease severity, and other factors including gastroenterology/hepatology consultation showed that patients seen by APPs were more likely to receive consistent HCC and varices screening over time, less likely to experience 30-day readmissions, and had lower mortality (adjusted hazard ratio 0.57, 95% confidence interval 0.55, 0.60). Conclusion: APPs, particularly when working with gastroenterologists/hepatologists, are associated with improved quality of care and outcomes for patients with cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elliot B. Tapper
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine. University of Michigan, Ann Arbor MI,Veterans Affairs, Ann Arbor MI
| | | | | | - John N. Mafi
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Health Services Research, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA,RAND Health, RAND Corporation
| | | | - Neehar D. Parikh
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine. University of Michigan, Ann Arbor MI,Veterans Affairs, Ann Arbor MI
| | - Anna S. Lok
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine. University of Michigan, Ann Arbor MI,Veterans Affairs, Ann Arbor MI
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27
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Serper M, Kaplan DE, Shults J, Reese PP, Beste LA, Taddei TH, Werner RM. Quality Measures, All-Cause Mortality, and Health Care Use in a National Cohort of Veterans With Cirrhosis. Hepatology 2019; 70:2062-2074. [PMID: 31107967 PMCID: PMC6864236 DOI: 10.1002/hep.30779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2019] [Accepted: 05/10/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Decompensated cirrhosis is associated with high morbidity and mortality. However, no standardized quality measures (QMs) have yet been adopted widely. The Veterans Affairs (VA) Advanced Liver Disease Technical Advisory Group recently developed a set of six internal QMs to guide quality improvement efforts in cirrhosis in the domains of access to care, hepatocellular carcinoma surveillance, variceal surveillance, quality of inpatient care for upper gastrointestinal bleeding, and cirrhosis-related rehospitalizations. We aimed to (1) quantify adherence to cirrhosis QMs and (2) determine whether adherence was associated with all-cause mortality and health care use within a large national cohort of veterans with cirrhosis. We performed a retrospective study using data from the Veterans Outcomes and Costs Asociated with Liver Disease cohort of 121,129 patients newly diagnosed with cirrhosis from January 1, 2008, to December 31, 2016, at 128 VA facilities. The mean follow-up time was 2.7 years (interquartile range, 1.1-5.1 years). Adherence to outpatient access to specialty care was 71%, variceal surveillance was 32%, and early postdischarge care was 54%. In adjusted analyses, outpatient access to specialty care (hazard ratio [HR], 0.80; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.78-0.82), hepatocellular carcinoma surveillance (HR, 0.92; 95% CI, 0.90-0.95), variceal surveillance (HR, 0.93; 95% CI, 0.89-0.99), and early postdischarge care (HR, 0.57; 95% CI, 0.54-0.60) were associated with lower all-cause mortality. Readmissions after 30 days (HR, 1.53; 1.46-1.60) and 90 days (HR, 1.88; 95% CI, 1.54-1.70) were associated with higher all-cause mortality. Higher adherence to QMs was also associated with lower inpatient health care use. Conclusion: Five of the six proposed VA cirrhosis QMs were measurable using existing data sources, associated with mortality and health care use, and may be used to guide future quality improvement efforts in cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Serper
- Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia PA
- Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - David E. Kaplan
- Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia PA
| | - Justine Shults
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Peter P. Reese
- Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
- Renal-Electrolyte and Hypertension Division, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Lauren A. Beste
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Health Services Research and Development, Seattle, WA
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, General Medicine Service, Seattle, WA, USA
- Division of General Internal Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Tamar H. Taddei
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut CT
- Division of Gastroenterology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
| | - Rachel M. Werner
- Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA
- Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
- Division of General Internal Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA
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Determinants of Hepatitis C Treatment Adherence and Treatment Completion Among Veterans in the Direct Acting Antiviral Era. Dig Dis Sci 2019; 64:3001-3012. [PMID: 30903364 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-019-05590-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2018] [Accepted: 03/12/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the availability of direct acting antiviral medications (DAAs), there are ongoing concerns about adherence to hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment. We sought to understand the barriers to and facilitators of DAA adherence in the Veteran population. METHODS Patients completed semi-structured interviews focused on barriers to and facilitators of HCV treatment adherence both pre- and post-DAA treatment. Adherence was assessed via provider pill count and self-report. Thematic analyses were conducted in the qualitative software program Atlas.ti in order to understand anticipated barriers to and facilitators of treatment adherence and completion. Charts were reviewed for clinical data and sustained virologic response (SVR12). RESULTS Of 40 patients, 15 had cirrhosis and 10 had prior interferon-based treatment. Pre-treatment interviews revealed anticipated barriers to adherence such as side effects (n = 21) and forgetting pills (n = 11). Most patients (n = 27) reported following provider advice, and others had unique reasons not to (e.g., feeling like a "guinea pig"). Post-treatment interviews uncovered facilitators of treatment including wanting to cure HCV (n = 17), positive results (n = 18), and minimal side effects (n = 15). Three patients (8%) did not complete therapy (whom we further elaborate on) and 6 (15%) missed doses but completed treatment. SVR12 was achieved by all participants who completed therapy (93%). Patients who did not complete therapy or missed doses were all treatment naïve, mostly non-cirrhotic (8 of 9), and often anticipated concerns with forgetting their medications. CONCLUSIONS This qualitative study uncovered several unanticipated determinants of HCV treatment completion and provides rationale for several targeted interventions such as incorporating structured positive reinforcement.
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Health Care Utilization and Costs for Patients With End-Stage Liver Disease Are Significantly Higher at the End of Life Compared to Those of Other Decedents. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2019; 17:2339-2346.e1. [PMID: 30743007 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2019.01.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2017] [Revised: 01/23/2019] [Accepted: 01/28/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Patients with end-stage liver disease (ESLD) have progressively complex medical needs. However, little is known about their end-of-life health care utilization or associated costs. We performed a population-based study to evaluate the end-of-life direct utilization and costs for patients with ESLD among health care sectors in the province of Ontario. METHODS We used linked Ontario health administrative databases to conduct a population-based retrospective cohort study of all decedents from April 1, 2010, through March 31, 2013. Patients with ESLD were compared with patients without ESLD with regard to total health care utilization and costs in the last year and last 90 days of life. RESULTS The median age at death was significantly lower for ESLD decedents (65 y; interquartile range, 56-75 y) than for individuals without ESLD (80 y; interquartile range, 68-88 y). The median cost in the last year of life was significantly greater for patients with ESLD ($51,235 vs $44,456 without ESLD) (P < .001). Median ESLD end-of-life care costs also significantly exceeded those associated with 4 of the 5 most resource-intensive chronic conditions ($69,040 for ESLD vs $59,088 for non-ESLD) (P < .001). Cost differences were most pronounced in the final 90 days of life. During this period, patients with ESLD spent 4.7 more days in the hospital (95% CI, 4.3-5.1 d) than patients without ESLD (P < .0001), had significantly higher odds of dying in an institutional setting (odds ratio, 1.8; 95% CI, 1.7-1.9) (P < .0001), and incurred an additional $4201 in costs (95% CI, $3384-$5019; P < .0001). CONCLUSIONS In a population-based study in Canada, we found that patients with ESLD incur significantly higher end-of-life care costs than decedents without ESLD, predominantly owing to increased time in the hospital during the final 90 days of life.
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Aspinall RJ. Reducing recurrent hospital admissions in patients with decompensated cirrhosis. Br J Hosp Med (Lond) 2019; 79:93-96. [PMID: 29431486 DOI: 10.12968/hmed.2018.79.2.93] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Recurrent admissions to hospital are a major issue for people living with decompensated cirrhosis, particularly those who develop chronic hepatic encephalopathy, a condition that leads to significantly impaired quality of life for patients and their family caregivers. Such patients have high health-care use costs but recent data have shown how the appropriate use of effective medical therapy can significantly reduce hospital admissions, length of stay and unplanned readmissions. Redesigning clinical services to optimize access to specialist care and improving the education and support of patients and their carers can further help to reduce the burden of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard J Aspinall
- Consultant Hepatologist, Portsmouth Liver Centre, Queen Alexandra Hospital, Portsmouth PO6 3LY
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31
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Rao BB, Sobotka A, Lopez R, Romero-Marrero C, Carey W. Outpatient telephonic transitional care after hospital discharge improves survival in cirrhotic patients. World J Hepatol 2019; 11:646-655. [PMID: 31528247 PMCID: PMC6717714 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v11.i8.646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2019] [Revised: 06/12/2019] [Accepted: 07/05/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intervention to improve outcomes in cirrhotic patients (CP) after hospital discharge often focus on 30 d readmission rate (RR). However, recent studies suggest dissociation between RR and survival. At our center, CP are now offered outpatient telephonic transitional care (OTTC) by a care coordinator for 30 d after hospital discharge.
AIM To determine the effect of OTTC on survival in CP.
METHODS In this cohort study from a tertiary center, CP who received OTTC formed the intervention group. They were compared with a control group discharged during the same period. Mortality and RR were compared between the groups.
RESULTS After OTTC introduction, 194 CP were discharged. After applying exclusion criteria, 169 CP (51% male, mean age 58 years ± 12 years) were included. OTTC group comprised 76 patients and was compared with 93 controls. Baseline disease and index admission related characteristics were not significantly different between the groups. The intervention group showed significantly higher 6 mo survival compared to controls (84.2% vs 68.8%; P = 0.03), while RR at 1, 3, and 6 mo were comparable. On multivariable analysis, the intervention group showed lower odds for mortality compared to the controls (hazard ratio: 0.4; 95% confidence interval: 0.2-0.82; P = 0.012), while higher model for end-stage liver disease scores were associated with higher mortality (hazard ratio: 1.05; 95% confidence interval: 1.01-1.1; P = 0.024).
CONCLUSION CP provided OTTC had higher 6 mo survival compared to controls without a difference in RR. Use of RR to gauge quality of care provided during hospitalization or subsequent transitional care programs should be revisited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhavana Bhagya Rao
- Department of Gastroenterology Hepatology and Nutrition, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, United States
| | - Anastasia Sobotka
- Department of Gastroenterology Hepatology and Nutrition, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, United States
| | - Rocio Lopez
- Department of Gastroenterology Hepatology and Nutrition, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, United States
| | - Carlos Romero-Marrero
- Department of Gastroenterology Hepatology and Nutrition, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, United States
| | - William Carey
- Department of Gastroenterology Hepatology and Nutrition, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, United States
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Aye L, Volk M. First Do No Harm: Medication-Related Problems Among Patients With Cirrhosis. Hepatol Commun 2019; 3:603-604. [PMID: 31061948 PMCID: PMC6492472 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.1349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2019] [Accepted: 02/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Lydia Aye
- Division of Gastroenterology and Transplantation Institute Loma Linda University Health Loma Linda CA
| | - Michael Volk
- Division of Gastroenterology and Transplantation Institute Loma Linda University Health Loma Linda CA
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Hayward KL, Patel PJ, Valery PC, Horsfall LU, Li CY, Wright PL, Tallis CJ, Stuart KA, Irvine KM, Cottrell WN, Martin JH, Powell EE. Medication-Related Problems in Outpatients With Decompensated Cirrhosis: Opportunities for Harm Prevention. Hepatol Commun 2019; 3:620-631. [PMID: 31061951 PMCID: PMC6492469 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.1334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2018] [Accepted: 02/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
People with decompensated cirrhosis are often prescribed a complex regimen of therapeutic and prophylactic medications. In other chronic diseases, polypharmacy increases the risk of medication misadventure and medication-related problems (MRPs), with associated increased morbidity, mortality, and health care costs. This study examined MRPs in a cohort of ambulatory patients with a history of decompensated cirrhosis who were enrolled in a randomized controlled trial of a pharmacist-led, patient-oriented medication education intervention and assessed the association between MRPs and patient outcomes. A total of 375 MRPs were identified among 57 intervention patients (median, 6.0; interquartile range, 3.5-8.0 per patient; maximum 17). Nonadherence (31.5%) and indication issues (29.1%) were the most prevalent MRP types. The risk of potential harm associated with MRPs was low in 18.9% of instances, medium in 33.1%, and high in 48.0%, as categorized by a clinician panel using a risk matrix tool. Patients had a greater incidence rate of high-risk MRPs if they had a higher Child-Pugh score (incidence rate ratio [IRR], 1.31; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.09-1.56); greater comorbidity burden (IRR, 1.15; 95% CI, 1.02-1.29); and were taking more medications (IRR, 1.12; 95% CI, 1.04-1.22). A total of 221 MRPs (58.9%) were resolved following pharmacist intervention. A greater proportion of high-risk MRPs were resolved compared to those of low and medium risk (68.9% versus 49.7%; P < 0.001). During the 12-month follow-up period, intervention patients had a lower incidence rate of unplanned admissions compared to usual care (IRR, 0.52; 95% CI, 0.30-0.92). Conclusion: High-risk MRPs are prevalent among adults with decompensated cirrhosis. Pharmacist intervention facilitated identification and resolution of high-risk MRPs and was associated with reduced incidence rate of unplanned hospital admissions in this group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly L. Hayward
- Centre for Liver Disease Research, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of Queensland, Translational Research InstituteBrisbaneAustralia
- Pharmacy DepartmentPrincess Alexandra HospitalBrisbaneAustralia
| | - Preya J. Patel
- Centre for Liver Disease Research, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of Queensland, Translational Research InstituteBrisbaneAustralia
- Department of Gastroenterology and HepatologyPrincess Alexandra HospitalBrisbaneAustralia
| | - Patricia C. Valery
- Centre for Liver Disease Research, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of Queensland, Translational Research InstituteBrisbaneAustralia
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research InstituteBrisbaneAustralia
| | - Leigh U. Horsfall
- Centre for Liver Disease Research, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of Queensland, Translational Research InstituteBrisbaneAustralia
- Department of Gastroenterology and HepatologyPrincess Alexandra HospitalBrisbaneAustralia
| | | | - Penny L. Wright
- Department of Gastroenterology and HepatologyPrincess Alexandra HospitalBrisbaneAustralia
| | - Caroline J. Tallis
- Department of Gastroenterology and HepatologyPrincess Alexandra HospitalBrisbaneAustralia
| | - Katherine A. Stuart
- Department of Gastroenterology and HepatologyPrincess Alexandra HospitalBrisbaneAustralia
| | - Katharine M. Irvine
- Centre for Liver Disease Research, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of Queensland, Translational Research InstituteBrisbaneAustralia
| | | | - Jennifer H. Martin
- School of Medicine and Public HealthUniversity of NewcastleNewcastleAustralia
| | - Elizabeth E. Powell
- Centre for Liver Disease Research, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of Queensland, Translational Research InstituteBrisbaneAustralia
- Department of Gastroenterology and HepatologyPrincess Alexandra HospitalBrisbaneAustralia
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Powell EE, Skoien R, Rahman T, Clark PJ, O'Beirne J, Hartel G, Stuart KA, McPhail SM, Gupta R, Boyd P, Valery PC. Increasing Hospitalization Rates for Cirrhosis: Overrepresentation of Disadvantaged Australians. EClinicalMedicine 2019; 11:44-53. [PMID: 31317132 PMCID: PMC6610783 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2019.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2019] [Revised: 05/16/2019] [Accepted: 05/20/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Limited information is available about hospitalization rates for cirrhosis in Australia. METHODS Using information on all hospital episodes of care for patients admitted to Queensland hospitals during 2008-2016, we report age-standardized hospitalization rates/10,000 person-years, in-hospital case-fatality rate among these admissions (n = 30,327), and examine the factors associated with hospital deaths using logistic regression analyses. FINDINGS Hospitalization rates increased from 8.50/10,000 (95% confidence interval (CI) 8.18-8.82) to 11.21/10,000 (95%CI 10.87-11.54) between 2008 and 2016, and peaked in men aged 55-59 years (34.03/10,000) and in Indigenous Australians (32.79/10,000). The number of admissions increased by 61.7% from 2701 admissions in 2008 to 4367 in 2016. During the same period, the percentage increase varied by socioeconomic disadvantage (3.2%/year in the most affluent vs. 9.4%/year in the most disadvantaged quintile; p < 0.001). Alcohol misuse was a contributing factor for cirrhosis in 55.1% of admissions, and socioeconomic disadvantage in 26.8%. The overall in-hospital case-fatality rate was 9.7% for males and 9.3% for females, and decreased in males (p < 0.001). Predictors of in-hospital mortality included hepatorenal syndrome (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 7.24, 95%CI 5.99-8.75), HCC (AOR = 2.53, 95%CI 2.20-2.91), hepatic encephalopathy (AOR = 1.94, 95%CI 1.61-2.34), acute peritonitis (AOR = 1.93, 95%CI 1.61-2.33), jaundice (AOR = 1.82, 95%CI 1.20-2.75), age ≥ 70 years (AOR = 1.63, 95%CI 1.38-1.92), a higher comorbidity index (p = 0.021), and residence outside of a "major city" (p < 0.001). INTERPRETATION The increasing healthcare use by Australians with cirrhosis has resource and economic implications. Our data highlight the disproportionate impact of cirrhosis on Indigenous Australians and people from the most socioeconomically disadvantaged areas. FUNDING Brisbane Diamantina Health Partners.
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Key Words
- Adjusted odds ratios, AOR
- Charlson Comorbidity Index, CCI
- Chronic liver disease
- Chronic liver diseases, CLDs
- Confidence interval, CI
- Epidemiology
- Hepatic encephalopathy, HE
- Hepatitis B virus, HBV
- Hepatitis C virus, HCV
- Hepatocellular carcinoma, HCC
- In-hospital mortality
- International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, 10th Revision, Australian, ICD-10-AM
- Interquartile range, IQR
- Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operators, LASSO
- Length of stay, LOS
- Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, NAFLD
- Odds ratios, OR
- Radio-frequency ablation, RFA
- Temporal
- Trans-arterial chemoembolization, TACE
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth E. Powell
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Centre for Liver Disease Research, Translational Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Richard Skoien
- Department of Gastroenterology, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Tony Rahman
- Gastroenterology & Hepatology Department, The Prince Charles Hospital, Chermside, QLD, Australia
| | - Paul J. Clark
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mater Hospitals, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - James O'Beirne
- Sunshine Coast University Hospital, Sunshine Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Gunter Hartel
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, QLD, Australia
| | - Katherine A. Stuart
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Steven M. McPhail
- Centre for Functioning and Health Research, Queensland Health and the School of Public Health and Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | | | - Peter Boyd
- Cairns Base Hospital, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Patricia C. Valery
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, QLD, Australia
- Corresponding author.
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35
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Volk ML, Mellinger J, Bansal MB, Gellad ZF, McClellan M, Kanwal F. A Roadmap for Value-Based Payment Models Among Patients With Cirrhosis. Hepatology 2019; 69:1300-1305. [PMID: 30226642 DOI: 10.1002/hep.30277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2018] [Accepted: 09/12/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Healthcare reimbursement is shifting from fee-for-service to fee-for-value. Cirrhosis, which costs the U.S. healthcare system as much as heart failure, is a prime target for value-based care. This article describes models in which physician groups or health systems are paid for improving quality and lowering costs for a given population of patients with cirrhosis. If done correctly, we believe that such frameworks, once adopted, could help reduce burnout by freeing physicians of the burden of checking boxes in the electronic medical record so that they can devote their energies to managing populations. Conclusion: Value-based payment models for cirrhosis have the potential to benefit patients, physicians, and healthcare insurers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael L Volk
- Division of Gastroenterology and Transplant Institute, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA
| | - Jessica Mellinger
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Hospital System, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Meena B Bansal
- Department of Medicine, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY
| | | | | | - Fasiha Kanwal
- Houston VA Health Services Research Center of Excellence, Houston, TX.,Health Services Research and Gastroenterology, Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, TX.,Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
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Camargo-Pinheiro-Alves R, Viera-Alves DE, Malzyner A, Gampel O, Almeida-Costa TDF, Guz B, Poletti P. Experience with Sorafenib in 3 Hospitals in Sao Paulo. Ann Hepatol 2019; 18:172-176. [PMID: 31113587 DOI: 10.5604/01.3001.0012.7909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2018] [Accepted: 07/01/2018] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND AIM Sorafenib has been the standard of care for first-line treatment of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma, a complex disease that affects an extremely heterogenous population. Thereby requiring multidisciplinary individualized treatment strategies that match the disease characteristics and the patients' specific needs. MATERIAL AND METHODS Data for 175 patients who received sorafenib for hepatocellular carcinoma in three different hospitals in Sao Paulo, Brazil over a span of nine years were retrospectively analyzed. RESULTS The median age was 62 years. Percentages of patients with Child-Pugh A, B and C liver cirrhosis were 61%, 31% and 5%, respectively. Approximately half of the patients had Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer stage B disease, and the other half had stage C. The median treatment duration was 253 days. Sorafenib dose was reduced to 400 mg/day in 41% of the patients due to toxicity. Overall objective response rate as per Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors and its modified version was 39%. Patients who received transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) at any point during sorafenib therapy were significantly more likely to experience an objective response. After a median follow-up of 339 days, the median overall survival was 380 days. Child-Pugh cirrhosis, tumor response and concomitant chemoembolization were independent prognostic factors for overall survival in multivariate analysis. CONCLUSION Our results suggest that, in experienced hands, sorafenib therapy may benefit carefully selected hepatocellular carcinoma patients for whom other therapies are initially contraindicated, including those patients with Child-Pugh B liver function and those patients who are subsequently treated with concomitant TACE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rogério Camargo-Pinheiro-Alves
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hospital do Servidor Público Estadual, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil; Department of Oncology, Hospital Heliopolis Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Daniele E Viera-Alves
- Department of Oncology, Hospital do Servidor Público Estadual, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil; Department of Oncology, Hospital Heliopolis Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Arthur Malzyner
- Department of Oncology, Hospital Heliopolis Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Otavio Gampel
- Department of Oncology, Hospital do Servidor Público Estadual, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Betty Guz
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hospital do Servidor Público Estadual, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Paula Poletti
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hospital do Servidor Público Estadual, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
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37
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Maraolo AE, Buonomo AR, Zappulo E, Scotto R, Pinchera B, Gentile I. Unsolved Issues in the Treatment of Spontaneous Peritonitis in Patients with Cirrhosis: Nosocomial Versus Community-acquired Infections and the Role of Fungi. Rev Recent Clin Trials 2019; 14:129-135. [PMID: 30514194 DOI: 10.2174/1574887114666181204102516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2018] [Revised: 11/26/2018] [Accepted: 11/27/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Historically, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) has represented one of the most frequent and relevant infectious complications of advanced liver disease, and this is still valid today. Nevertheless, in recent years the role of fungi as causative pathogens of primary peritonitis in patients with cirrhosis has become not negligible. Another issue is linked with the traditional distinction, instrumental in therapeutic choice, between community-acquired and nosocomial forms, according to the onset. Between these two categories, another one has been introduced: the so-called "healthcare-associated infections". OBJECTIVE To discuss the most controversial aspects in the management of SBP nowadays in the light of best available evidence. METHODS A review of recent literature through MEDLINE was performed. RESULTS The difference between community-acquired and nosocomial infections is crucial to guide empiric antibiotic therapy, since the site of acquisition impact on the likelihood of multidrug-resistant bacteria as causative agents. Therefore, third-generation cephalosporins cannot be considered the mainstay of treatment in each episode. Furthermore, the distinction between healthcare-associated and nosocomial form seems very subtle, especially in areas wherein antimicrobial resistance is widespread, warranting broad-spectrum antibiotic regimens for both. Finally, spontaneous fungal peritonitis is a not common but actually underestimated entity, linked to high mortality. Especially in patients with septic shock and/or failure of an aggressive antibiotic regimen, the empiric addition of an antifungal agent might be considered. CONCLUSION Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis is one of the most important complications in patients with cirrhosis. A proper empiric therapy is crucial to have a positive outcome. In this respect, a careful assessment of risk factors for multidrug-resistant pathogens is crucial. Likewise important, mostly in nosocomial cases, is not to overlook the probability of a fungal ascitic infection, namely a spontaneous fungal peritonitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Enrico Maraolo
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Section of Infectious Diseases, University of Naples Federico II, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Antonio Riccardo Buonomo
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Section of Infectious Diseases, University of Naples Federico II, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Emanuela Zappulo
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Section of Infectious Diseases, University of Naples Federico II, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Riccardo Scotto
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Section of Infectious Diseases, University of Naples Federico II, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Biagio Pinchera
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Section of Infectious Diseases, University of Naples Federico II, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Ivan Gentile
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Section of Infectious Diseases, University of Naples Federico II, 80131, Naples, Italy
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38
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Bodek D, Patel P, Ahlawat S, Orosz E, Nasereddin T, Pyrsopoulos N. Superior Performance of Teaching and Transplant Hospitals in the Management of Hepatic Encephalopathy from 2007 to 2014. J Clin Transl Hepatol 2018; 6:362-371. [PMID: 30637212 PMCID: PMC6328739 DOI: 10.14218/jcth.2017.00078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2017] [Revised: 09/05/2018] [Accepted: 10/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims: Hepatic encephalopathy is a liver disease complication with significant mortality and costs. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relative performance of facilities based on their teaching status and transplant capability by correlating their connections to mortality, cost, and length of stay from 2007 to 2014. Methods: The Nationwide Inpatient Sample database was utilized to collect information on (USA) American patients admitted with a primary diagnosis of hepatic encephalopathy from 2007-2014. Hospitals were placed into one of four categories using their teaching and transplant status. Using regression analysis, mortality, length of stay and cost adjusted rate ratios were calculated. Results: The study revealed that teaching transplant centers had a mortality risk ratio of 0.783 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.750-0.819, p < 0.001). Blacks had the highest mortality risk ratio, of 1.273 (95%CI: 1.217-1.331, p < 0.001). Furthermore, teaching transplant hospitals had a cost rate ratio of 1.226 (95%CI: 1.214-1.238, p < 0.001) and a length of stay rate ratio of 1.104 (95%CI: 1.093-1.115, p < 0.001). Conclusions: It appears that admission to transplant facilities for hepatic encephalopathy is associated with reduced mortality but increased costs and longer stay independent of transplantation. Moreover, factors impacting black mortality should also be examined more closely.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Bodek
- Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, University Hospital, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Pavan Patel
- Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, University Hospital, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Sushil Ahlawat
- Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, University Hospital, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Evan Orosz
- Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, University Hospital, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Thayer Nasereddin
- Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, University Hospital, Newark, NJ, USA
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Thomson MJ, Lok AS, Tapper EB. Optimizing medication management for patients with cirrhosis: Evidence-based strategies and their outcomes. Liver Int 2018; 38:1882-1890. [PMID: 29845749 PMCID: PMC6202194 DOI: 10.1111/liv.13892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2018] [Accepted: 05/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Cirrhosis is a morbid condition associated with frequent hospitalizations and high mortality. Management of cirrhosis requires complex medication regimens to treat underlying liver disease, complications of cirrhosis and comorbid conditions. This review examines the complexities of medication management in cirrhosis, barriers to optimal medication use, and potential interventions to streamline medication regimens and avoid medication errors. A literature review was performed by searching PUBMED through December 2017 and article reference lists to identify articles relevant to medication management, complications, adherence, and interventions to improve medication use in cirrhosis. The structural barriers in cirrhosis include sheer medication complexity related to the number of medications and potential for cognitive impairment in this population, faulty medication reconciliation and limited adherence. Tested interventions have included patient self-education, provider driven patient education, intensive case management including medication blister packs and smartphone applications. Initiatives are needed to improve patient, caregiver and provider education on appropriate use of medications in patients with cirrhosis. A multidisciplinary team should be established to coordinate care with close monitoring, address patient and caregiver concerns, and to provide timely access to outpatient evaluation of urgent/complex issues. Future studies evaluating the clinical outcomes and cost effectiveness of interventions are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary J Thomson
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Anna S Lok
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Elliot B Tapper
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Veterans Affairs Hospital, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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40
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Alavi M, Janjua NZ, Chong M, Grebely J, Aspinall EJ, Innes H, Valerio H, Hajarizadeh B, Hayes PC, Krajden M, Amin J, Law MG, George J, Goldberg DJ, Hutchinson SJ, Dore GJ. Trends in hepatocellular carcinoma incidence and survival among people with hepatitis C: An international study. J Viral Hepat 2018; 25:473-481. [PMID: 29194861 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.12837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2017] [Accepted: 10/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
This study evaluates trends in hepatitis C virus (HCV)-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) incidence and survival in three settings, prior to introduction of direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapies. HCV notifications from British Columbia (BC), Canada; New South Wales (NSW), Australia; and Scotland (1995-2011/2012/2013, respectively) were linked to HCC diagnosis data via hospital admissions (2001-2012/2013/2014, respectively) and mortality (1995-2013/2014/2015, respectively). Age-standardized HCC incidence rates were evaluated, associated factors were assessed using Cox regression, and median survival time after HCC diagnosis was calculated. Among 58 487, 84 529 and 31 924 people with HCV in BC, NSW and Scotland, 734 (1.3%), 1045 (1.2%) and 345 (1.1%) had an HCC diagnosis. Since mid-2000s, HCC diagnosis numbers increased in all jurisdictions. Age-standardized HCC incidence rates remained stable in BC and Scotland and increased in NSW. The strongest predictor of HCC diagnosis was older age [birth <1945, aHR in BC 5.74, 95% CI 4.84, 6.82; NSW 9.26, 95% CI 7.93, 10.82; Scotland 12.55, 95% CI 9.19, 17.15]. Median survival after HCC diagnosis remained stable in BC (0.8 years in 2001-2006 and 2007-2011) and NSW (0.9 years in 2001-2006 and 2007-2013) and improved in Scotland (0.7 years in 2001-2006 to 1.5 years in 2007-2014). Across the settings, HCC burden increased, individual-level risk of HCC remained stable or increased, and HCC survival remained extremely low. These findings highlight the minimal impact of HCC prevention and management strategies during the interferon-based HCV treatment era and form the basis for evaluating the impact of DAA therapy in the coming years.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Alavi
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK.,Health Protection Scotland, National Services Scotland, Glasgow, UK
| | - N Z Janjua
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - M Chong
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - J Grebely
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - E J Aspinall
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK.,Health Protection Scotland, National Services Scotland, Glasgow, UK
| | - H Innes
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK.,Health Protection Scotland, National Services Scotland, Glasgow, UK
| | - H Valerio
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK.,Health Protection Scotland, National Services Scotland, Glasgow, UK
| | - B Hajarizadeh
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - P C Hayes
- Royal Infirmary Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - M Krajden
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - J Amin
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Department of Health Systems and Populations, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - M G Law
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - J George
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney and Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
| | - D J Goldberg
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK.,Health Protection Scotland, National Services Scotland, Glasgow, UK
| | - S J Hutchinson
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK.,Health Protection Scotland, National Services Scotland, Glasgow, UK
| | - G J Dore
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Kimbell B, Murray SA, Byrne H, Baird A, Hayes PC, MacGilchrist A, Finucane A, Brookes Young P, O’Carroll RE, Weir CJ, Kendall M, Boyd K. Palliative care for people with advanced liver disease: A feasibility trial of a supportive care liver nurse specialist. Palliat Med 2018; 32:919-929. [PMID: 29516776 PMCID: PMC5946657 DOI: 10.1177/0269216318760441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Liver disease is an increasing cause of death worldwide but palliative care is largely absent for these patients. AIM We conducted a feasibility trial of a complex intervention delivered by a supportive care liver nurse specialist to improve care coordination, anticipatory care planning and quality of life for people with advanced liver disease and their carers. DESIGN Patients received a 6-month intervention (alongside usual care) from a specially trained liver nurse specialist. The nurse supported patients/carers to live as well as possible with the condition and acted as a resource to facilitate care by community professionals. A mixed-method evaluation was conducted. Case note analysis and questionnaires examined resource use, care planning processes and quality-of-life outcomes over time. Interviews with patients, carers and professionals explored acceptability, effectiveness, feasibility and the intervention. SETTING/PARTICIPANTS Patients with advanced liver disease who had an unplanned hospital admission with decompensated cirrhosis were recruited from an inpatient liver unit. The intervention was delivered to patients once they had returned home. RESULTS We recruited 47 patients, 27 family carers and 13 case-linked professionals. The intervention was acceptable to all participants. They welcomed access to additional expert advice, support and continuity of care. The intervention greatly increased the number of electronic summary care plans shared by primary care and hospitals. The Palliative care Outcome Scale and EuroQol-5D-5L questionnaire were suitable outcome measurement tools. CONCLUSION This nurse-led intervention proved acceptable and feasible. We have refined the recruitment processes and outcome measures for a future randomised controlled trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Kimbell
- Primary Palliative Care Research Group, Usher Institute of Population Health Sciences and Informatics, Edinburgh Medical School, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Scott A Murray
- Primary Palliative Care Research Group, Usher Institute of Population Health Sciences and Informatics, Edinburgh Medical School, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Heidi Byrne
- Liver Unit, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Andrea Baird
- Liver Unit, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Peter C Hayes
- Liver Unit, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | | | | | | | | | - Christopher J Weir
- Edinburgh Clinical Trials Unit, Usher Institute of Population Health Sciences and Informatics, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Marilyn Kendall
- Primary Palliative Care Research Group, Usher Institute of Population Health Sciences and Informatics, Edinburgh Medical School, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Kirsty Boyd
- Primary Palliative Care Research Group, Usher Institute of Population Health Sciences and Informatics, Edinburgh Medical School, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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Shah AS, Amarapurkar DN. Natural History of Cirrhosis of Liver after First Decompensation: A Prospective Study in India. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2018; 8:50-57. [PMID: 29743797 PMCID: PMC5938527 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2017.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2017] [Accepted: 06/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS As liver cirrhosis is a dynamic condition, it is possible to improve survival in decompensated cirrhosis. Hence, we planned a prospective study to determine the natural history of cirrhosis after first decompensation. METHODS We enrolled all patients of liver cirrhosis who presented with first episode of decompensation defined by the presence of ascites, either overt or detected by Ultrasonography (UD), Gastroesophageal Variceal Bleeding (GEVB), and Hepatic Encephalopathy (HE). All patients were followed up to death/liver transplant or at least for the period of 1 year. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression was used to analyze the risk of failure (death or Orthotopic Liver Transplantation (OLT)). RESULTS In total of 110 cirrhotic patients (93 males, mean age 50 ± 11 years), the most frequent etiology was alcohol (48%), followed by nonalcoholic steatohepatitis/cryptogenic (26%), hepatitis B (10%), autoimmune hepatitis (7%), and hepatitis C (6%). The distribution of CTP classes was: 4%, 56%, and 41% in class A, B, and C, respectively. Ascites was the most common decompensation found in 88 patients (80%) followed by HE (14%) and GEVB (6%). At 1-year follow up, transplant free survival was 78%, 2 underwent OLT, 4 developed hepatocellular carcinoma, and 24 died. Cumulative incidence of failure (death or OLT) by type of decompensation after 1 year was: 22% overt ascites, 50% GEVB, 28% UD ascites, 20% HE, and 33% ascites and GEVB concomitant. CONCLUSIONS Patients with UD ascites do not have a negligible mortality rate as compared to overt ascites. Patients with cirrhosis after first decompensation have better transplant free survival with treatment of etiology and complications than previously mentioned in literature.
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Key Words
- ACLF, Acute-on-Chronic Liver Failure
- AIH, Autoimmune Hepatitis
- APASL, Asian Pacific Association for the Study of the Liver
- CI, Confidence Interval
- GEVB, Gastroesophageal Variceal Bleeding
- GI, Gastrointestinal
- HBV, Hepatitis B Virus
- HCC, Hepatocellular Carcinoma
- HCV, Hepatitis C Virus
- HE, Hepatic Encephalopathy
- HRS, Hepatorenal Syndrome
- MELD, Model for End-Stage Liver Disease
- NASH, Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis
- OLT, Orthotopic Liver Transplantation
- PPI, Proton Pump Inhibitor
- SAAG, Serum-Ascites Albumin Gradient
- SBP, Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis
- UD, Ultrasonography
- ascites
- hepatic encephalopathy
- hepatocellular carcinoma
- liver transplant
- survival
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Affiliation(s)
- Apurva S. Shah
- Department of Gastroenterology, Apollo Hospital International Limited, Ahmedabad, India
- Address for correspondence: Apurva S. Shah, M.D., DNB Gastroenterologist, Department of Gastroenterology, Apollo Hospital International Limited, Ahmedabad 382428, India.
| | - Deepak N. Amarapurkar
- Department of Gastroenterology, Bombay Hospital & Medical Research Center, Mumbai, India
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Wang J, Khan S, Wyer P, Vanderwilp J, Reynolds J, Bethancourt B, Ota KS. The Role of Ultrasound-Guided Therapeutic Paracentesis in an Outpatient Transitional Care Program: A Case Series. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2018; 35:1256-1260. [DOI: 10.1177/1049909118755378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Patients with ascites suffer from distressing symptoms and are at high risk for readmission after hospitalization. Timely paracentesis is an important palliative tool in managing this vulnerable population. At our institution, we have developed a multidisciplinary transitional care program for patients discharged from the hospital with a wide range of complex conditions including refractory ascites. Methods: We present a case series of 10 patients with symptomatic ascites who were enrolled in our transitional care program and treated with ultrasound-guided therapeutic paracentesis in our clinic. Patient medical records were retrospectively reviewed to collect procedure details, outcomes, and follow-up data on emergency department (ED) visits and readmissions. Cost data were obtained from the hospital financial system. Results: Over the span of 9 months (September 2016 to July 2017), 22 total therapeutic paracenteses were performed on 10 unique patients in the transitional care clinic. Median age of the patient cohort was 52.5 years (range: 27-71 years). All patients reported immediate relief of ascites-related discomfort following the procedure. We did not observe any major adverse effects due to the in-clinic procedure. Nine of the 10 patients did not have any ED visits or readmissions within 30 days of discharge. The cost of performing ultrasound-guided paracentesis in the transitional care clinic was US$546.77 compared to US$978.32 when performed in the hospital. Conclusion: Our experience suggests that outpatient paracentesis may be a safe, feasible, and cost-effective means of providing symptom management for patients with ascites during their transition from hospital to home.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey Wang
- Center for Transitional Care, St Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ, USA
- College of Arts and Sciences, Baylor University, Waco, TX, USA
| | - Shahida Khan
- Center for Transitional Care, St Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Paige Wyer
- Center for Transitional Care, St Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Jessica Vanderwilp
- Center for Transitional Care, St Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Justin Reynolds
- Center for Liver Disease and Transplantation, St Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Bruce Bethancourt
- Center for Transitional Care, St Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Ken S. Ota
- Center for Transitional Care, St Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ, USA
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Valery PC, Clark PJ, McPhail SM, Rahman T, Hayward K, Martin J, Horsfall L, Volk ML, Skoien R, Powell E. Exploratory study into the unmet supportive needs of people diagnosed with cirrhosis in Queensland, Australia. Intern Med J 2017; 47:429-435. [PMID: 28145084 DOI: 10.1111/imj.13380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2016] [Revised: 10/09/2016] [Accepted: 01/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many patients with cirrhosis follow complex medication and dietary regimens, and those with decompensated cirrhosis suffer debilitating complications. These factors impact activities of daily living and quality of life. AIMS To explore the concerns and challenges of people with cirrhosis and their use of support services and to also describe health professionals' (HP) perspectives of patients' concerns. METHODS This is a cross-sectional study at a tertiary liver clinic involving 50 patients and 54 HP. Data were collected using structured questionnaires. The study includes patients' report of their challenges/problems now that they have cirrhosis ('patient-volunteered concerns') and HP' report of patients' concerns. Both also ranked a list of 10 potential concerns. RESULTS Patients were, on average, 58 years old (SD = 10.2), mostly male (78%), Caucasian (86%) and with compensated cirrhosis (60%). The patients' most common volunteered concerns related to managing symptoms, emotional issues and disease. Most ranked 'developing liver cancer' (79%), 'losing ability to do daily tasks for yourself' (76%), 'fear of dying' (64%) and 'fear of the unknown' (64%) as priority concerns. Regarding the use of support services, 24% of patients had accessed a dietician, 20% a pharmacist and 18% a psychologist. From the HP' perspective, the patients' most significant challenges related to managing disease (65%) and symptoms (48%), access to healthcare (56%) and information/knowledge (48%). CONCLUSIONS Our findings demonstrate that cirrhosis (its symptoms, complications and treatment) is associated with significant concerns for patients. The discrepancies between the views of HP and patients suggest that we may not be measuring or addressing patients' needs appropriately.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia C Valery
- Population Health, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,School of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Paul J Clark
- Population Health, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,School of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Pharmacy Department, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Steven M McPhail
- Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation and School of Public Health and Social Work, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Centre for Functioning and Health Research, Metro South Health, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Tony Rahman
- Prince Charles Hospital, Metro North Health, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Kelly Hayward
- School of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Pharmacy Department, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jennifer Martin
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, New Castle, New South Wales, Australia.,Diamantina Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Leigh Horsfall
- Pharmacy Department, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,The Centre for Liver Disease Research, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Michael L Volk
- Loma Linda University Medical Center, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, California, USA
| | - Richard Skoien
- Population Health, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,School of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Department of Gastroenterology, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Elizabeth Powell
- Pharmacy Department, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,The Centre for Liver Disease Research, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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Multidisciplinary Management of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Improves Access to Therapy and Patient Survival. J Clin Gastroenterol 2017; 51:845-849. [PMID: 28877082 DOI: 10.1097/mcg.0000000000000825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Given the complexity of managing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), it is widely accepted that a multidisciplinary team approach (tumor boards) offers the best approach to individualize therapy. The aim of this study was to determine utilization of therapies and outcomes for patients with HCC, comparing those managed through our multidisciplinary tumor board (MDTB) to those who were not. METHODS A database analysis of all patients with HCC managed through our MDTB, from 2007 until 2011, was performed. A database of all patients with HCC from 2002 to 2011, not managed through MDTB, was similarly created. RESULTS A total of 306 patients with HCC, from 2007 to 2011 were managed through our MDTB, in comparison with 349 patients, from 2002 to 2011 who were not. There were no significant differences in baseline demographic data or model for end-stage liver disease at presentation. Patients managed through MDTB were more likely to present at an earlier tumor stage and with lower serum alpha fetoprotein (AFP) (P=0.007). The odds of receiving any treatment for HCC was higher in patients managed through MDTB (odds ratio, 2.80; 95% confidence interval, 1.71-4.59; P<0.0001) independent of model for end-stage liver disease score, serum AFP, and tumor stage. There was significantly greater survival of patients managed through MDTB (19.1±2.5 vs. 7.6±0.9 mo, P<0.0001). Independent predictors for improved survival included management through MDTB, receipt of any HCC treatment, lower serum AFP, receipt of liver transplant, and T2 tumor stage. CONCLUSIONS Patients with HCC managed through a MDTB had significantly higher rates of receipt of therapy and improved survival compared with those who were not.
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Saberifiroozi M. Improving Quality of Care in Patients with Liver Cirrhosis. Middle East J Dig Dis 2017; 9:189-200. [PMID: 29255576 PMCID: PMC5726331 DOI: 10.15171/mejdd.2017.73] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2017] [Accepted: 09/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver cirrhosis is a major chronic disease in the field of digestive diseases. It causes more than one million deaths per year. Despite established evidence based guidelines, the adherence to standard of care or quality indicators are variable. Complete adherence to the recommendations of guidelines is less than 50%. To improve the quality of care in patients with cirrhosis, we need a more holistic view. Because of high rate of death due to cardiovascular disease and neoplasms, the care of comorbid conditions and risk factors such as smoking, hypertension, high blood sugar or cholesterol, would be important in addition to the management of primary liver disease. Despite a holistic multidisciplinary approach for this goal, the management of such patients should be patient centered and individualized. The diagnosis of underlying etiology and its appropriate treatment is the most important step. Definition and customizing the quality indicators for quality measure in patients are needed. Because most suggested quality indicators are designed for measuring the quality of care in decompensated liver cirrhosis, we need special quality indicators for compensated and milder forms of chronic liver disease as well. Training the patients for participation in their own management, design of special clinics with dedicated health professionals in a form of chronic disease model, is suggested for improvement of quality of care in this group of patients. Special day care centers by a dedicated gastroenterologist and a trained nurse may be a practical model for better management of such patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehdi Saberifiroozi
- Professor of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Liver and Pancreatobiliary Diseases Research Center, Digestive Diseases Research Institute, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences
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47
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Who Orders a Head CT?: Perceptions of the Cirrhotic Bleeding Risk in an International, Multispecialty Survey Study. J Clin Gastroenterol 2017; 51:632-638. [PMID: 27984401 DOI: 10.1097/mcg.0000000000000775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Traditional coagulopathic indices, including elevated international normalized ratio, do not correlate with bleeding risk in patients with cirrhosis. For this reason, head computed tomography (CT) has a low yield in cirrhotic patients with altered mental status and no trauma history. The initial diagnostic evaluation, however, is often made by nongastroenterologists influenced by the so-called "coagulopathy of cirrhosis." We sought to examine the prevalence, impact, and malleability of this perception in an international, multispecialty cohort. DESIGN An electronic survey was distributed to internal medicine, surgery, emergency medicine, and gastroenterology physicians. Respondents were presented with a cirrhotic patient with hepatic encephalopathy, no history of trauma, and a nonfocal neurological examination. Respondents rated likelihood to order head CT at presentation, after obtaining labs [international normalized ratio (INR) 2.4 and platelets 59×10/μL], and finally after reading the results of a study demonstrating the low yield of head CT in this setting. RESULTS In total, 1286 physicians from 6 countries, 84% from the United States. Of these, 62% were from internal medicine, 25% from emergency medicine, 8% from gastroenterology, and 5% from surgery. Totally, 47% of respondents were attending physicians. At each timepoint, emergency physicians were more likely, and gastroenterologists less likely, to scan than all other specialties (P<0.0001). Evidence on the low yield of head CT reduced likelihood to scan for all specialties. Qualitative analysis of open-ended comments confirmed that concern for "coagulopathy of cirrhosis" motivated CT orders. CONCLUSIONS Perceptions regarding the coagulopathy of cirrhosis, which vary across specialties, impact clinical decision-making. Exposure to clinical evidence has the potential to change practice patterns.
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Mathur AK, Chakrabarti AK, Mellinger JL, Volk ML, Day R, Singer AL, Hewitt WR, Reddy KS, Moss AA. Hospital resource intensity and cirrhosis mortality in United States. World J Gastroenterol 2017; 23:1857-1865. [PMID: 28348492 PMCID: PMC5352927 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v23.i10.1857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2016] [Revised: 01/04/2017] [Accepted: 02/08/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM To determine whether hospital characteristics predict cirrhosis mortality and how much variation in mortality is attributable to hospital differences.
METHODS We used data from the 2005-2011 Nationwide Inpatient Sample and the American Hospital Association Annual survey to identify hospitalizations for decompensated cirrhosis and corresponding facility characteristics. We created hospital-specific risk and reliability-adjusted odds ratios for cirrhosis mortality, and evaluated patient and facility differences based on hospital performance quintiles. We used hierarchical regression models to determine the effect of these factors on mortality.
RESULTS Seventy-two thousand seven hundred and thirty-three cirrhosis admissions were evaluated in 805 hospitals. Hospital mean cirrhosis annual case volume was 90.4 (range 25-828). Overall hospital cirrhosis mortality rate was 8.00%. Hospital-adjusted odds ratios (aOR) for mortality ranged from 0.48 to 1.89. Patient characteristics varied significantly by hospital aOR for mortality. Length of stay averaged 6.0 ± 1.6 days, and varied significantly by hospital performance (P < 0.001). Facility level predictors of risk-adjusted mortality were higher Medicaid case-mix (OR = 1.00, P = 0.029) and LPN staffing (OR = 1.02, P = 0.015). Higher cirrhosis volume (OR = 0.99, P = 0.025) and liver transplant program status (OR = 0.83, P = 0.026) were significantly associated with survival. After adjusting for patient differences, era, and clustering effects, 15.3% of variation between hospitals was attributable to differences in facility characteristics.
CONCLUSION Hospital characteristics account for a significant proportion of variation in cirrhosis mortality. These findings have several implications for patients, providers, and health care delivery in liver disease care and inpatient health care design.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Approximately, one quarter of patients discharged after a hospitalization for decompensated cirrhosis will be readmitted within 30 days. These readmissions have been associated with increased morbidity and mortality, can be financially harmful to the health system, and may be partially preventable. This review summarizes the literature on readmissions, providing clinicians with tools for risk prediction and a taxonomy for preventative interventions. RECENT FINDINGS Readmission strategies can be categorized according to complexity (simple versus complex) and specificity (focused versus broad). The literature thus far provides the following generalizable inferences: 1) Interventions should be integrated in the clinical workflow, 2) default options are more powerful than voluntary actions, 3) knowledge improvement should focus on the front line clinicians, 4) process improvements do not always translate into better outcomes, and 5) any successful intervention must include viable alternatives to hospitalization. A growing body of literature provides concrete and actionable guidance for interventions to reduce readmissions in patients with cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elliot B Tapper
- Division of Gastroenterology/Hepatology, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Michael Volk
- Division of Gastroenterology/Hepatology and Transplantation Institute, Loma Linda University Health, Loma Linda, CA, USA.
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50
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Defining a Patient Population With Cirrhosis: An Automated Algorithm With Natural Language Processing. J Clin Gastroenterol 2016; 50:889-894. [PMID: 27348317 DOI: 10.1097/mcg.0000000000000583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The objective of this study was to use natural language processing (NLP) as a supplement to International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision (ICD-9) and laboratory values in an automated algorithm to better define and risk-stratify patients with cirrhosis. BACKGROUND Identification of patients with cirrhosis by manual data collection is time-intensive and laborious, whereas using ICD-9 codes can be inaccurate. NLP, a novel computerized approach to analyzing electronic free text, has been used to automatically identify patient cohorts with gastrointestinal pathologies such as inflammatory bowel disease. This methodology has not yet been used in cirrhosis. STUDY DESIGN This retrospective cohort study was conducted at the University of California, Los Angeles Health, an academic medical center. A total of 5343 University of California, Los Angeles primary care patients with ICD-9 codes for chronic liver disease were identified during March 2013 to January 2015. An algorithm incorporating NLP of radiology reports, ICD-9 codes, and laboratory data determined whether these patients had cirrhosis. Of the 5343 patients, 168 patient charts were manually reviewed at random as a gold standard comparison. Positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), sensitivity, and specificity of the algorithm and each of its steps were calculated. RESULTS The algorithm's PPV, NPV, sensitivity, and specificity were 91.78%, 96.84%, 95.71%, and 93.88%, respectively. The NLP portion was the most important component of the algorithm with PPV, NPV, sensitivity, and specificity of 98.44%, 93.27%, 90.00%, and 98.98%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS NLP is a powerful tool that can be combined with administrative and laboratory data to identify patients with cirrhosis within a population.
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