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Maxwell CM, Bhat AM, Falls SJ, Bigbee M, Yin Y, Chalikonda S, Bartlett DL, Fernando HC, Allen CJ. Comprehensive value implications of surgeon volume for lung cancer surgery: Use of an analytic framework within a regional health system. JTCVS Open 2024; 17:286-294. [PMID: 38420536 PMCID: PMC10897681 DOI: 10.1016/j.xjon.2023.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Objective We used a framework to assess the value implications of thoracic surgeon operative volume within an 8-hospital health system. Methods Surgical cases for non-small cell lung cancer were assessed from March 2015 to March 2021. High-volume (HV) surgeons performed >25 pulmonary resections annually. Metrics include length of stay, infection rates, 30-day readmission, in-hospital mortality, median 30-day charges and direct costs, and 3-year recurrence-free and overall survival. Multivariate regression-based propensity scores matched patients between groups. Metrics were graphed on radar charts to conceptualize total value. Results All 638 lung resections were performed by 12 surgeons across 6 hospitals. Two HV surgeons performed 51% (n = 324) of operations, and 10 low-volume surgeons performed 49% (n = 314). Median follow-up was 28.8 months (14.0-42.3 months). Lobectomy was performed in 71% (n = 450) of cases. HV surgeons performed more segmentectomies (33% [n = 107] vs 3% [n = 8]; P < .001). Patients of HV surgeons had a lower length of stay (3 [2-4] vs 5 [3-7]; P < .001) and infection rates (0.6% [n = 1] vs 4% [n = 7]; P = .03). Low-volume and HV surgeons had similar 30-day readmission rates (14% [n = 23] vs 7% [n = 12]; P = .12), in-hospital mortality (0% [n = 0] vs 0.6% [n = 1]; P = .33), and oncologic outcomes; 3-year recurrence-free survival was 95% versus 91%; P = .44, and 3-year overall survival was 94% versus 90%; P = 0. Charges were reduced by 28%, and direct costs were reduced by 23% (both P < .001) in the HV cohort. Conclusions HV surgeons provide comprehensive value across a health system. This multidomain framework can be used to help drive oncologic care decisions within a health system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Conor M Maxwell
- Allegheny Health Network Singer Research Institute, Pittsburgh, Pa
| | - Akash M Bhat
- Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pa
| | - Samantha J Falls
- Allegheny Health Network Singer Research Institute, Pittsburgh, Pa
| | - Matthew Bigbee
- Allegheny Health Network Singer Research Institute, Pittsburgh, Pa
| | - Yue Yin
- Allegheny Health Network Singer Research Institute, Pittsburgh, Pa
| | - Sricharan Chalikonda
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Allegheny Health Network Cancer Institute, Pittsburgh, Pa
| | - David L Bartlett
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Allegheny Health Network Cancer Institute, Pittsburgh, Pa
| | - Hiran C Fernando
- Division of Thoracic and Esophageal Surgery, Allegheny Health Network, Pittsburgh, Pa
| | - Casey J Allen
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Allegheny Health Network Cancer Institute, Pittsburgh, Pa
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Maxwell CM, Bhat A, Falls SJ, Yin Y, Wagner PL, Bartlett DL, Allen CJ. Socioeconomic Factors Predict Long-Term Quality of Life of Cancer Survivors: An International Survey. J Surg Res 2024; 293:389-395. [PMID: 37806226 DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2023.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite advances in cancer treatment, the quality of life (QOL) of survivors varies significantly. We assessed the correlation between socioeconomic factors and long-term QOL in a global cohort of cancer survivors. MATERIALS AND METHODS Patients were offered surveys via online support groups. Using the Short Form-12 validated questionnaire, physical QOL (PQOL) and mental QOL (MQOL) well-being were compared to the general population. Socioeconomic factors were assessed with regression analysis for impact on QOL. RESULTS Seven hundred eighty two survivors from six continents responded. They were 57 ± 13 y and 68% female, 90.8% White, with 43 distinct cancer diagnoses. All survivors had PQOL and MQOL scores lower than the general population. Lower education level, household income, and non-White race all correlated with reduced PQOL and/or MQOL. Age was negatively correlated with PQOL (r = -0.08, P = 0.03) and positively correlated with MQOL (r = 0.142, P < 0.001). Care at large regional/academic centers was associated with higher MQOL (42 ± 14 versus 38 ± 11, P = 0.005). Age (β = -0.1, P = 0.04), education (β = 1.1, P = 0.005), and income (β = 2.0, P < 0.001) were predictors of PQOL, while age (β = 0.2, P < 0.001), income (β = 1.7, P = 0.002), and community hospital care (β = -3.6, P = 0.013) were predictors of MQOL. CONCLUSIONS In a large international survey of cancer survivors, we identified socioeconomic factors and their associations with QOL. Further work should be directed to provide durable support across all socioeconomic classes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Conor M Maxwell
- Allegheny Health Network Singer Research Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Akash Bhat
- Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Samantha J Falls
- Allegheny Health Network Singer Research Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Yue Yin
- Allegheny Health Network Singer Research Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Patrick L Wagner
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Allegheny Health Network Cancer Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - David L Bartlett
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Allegheny Health Network Cancer Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Casey J Allen
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Allegheny Health Network Cancer Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
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Falls SJ, Maxwell CM, Kaye DJ, Dighe SG, Schiffman SC, Bartlett DL, Wagner PL, Allen CJ. Minimally Invasive Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery at a Large Regional Health System: Assessing the Safety of Program Expansion. Am Surg 2024; 90:85-91. [PMID: 37578387 DOI: 10.1177/00031348231192073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Complex, minimally invasive hepatopancreatobiliary surgery (MIS HPB) is safe at high-volume centers, yet outcomes during early implementation are unknown. We describe our experience during period of rapid growth in an MIS HPB program at a large regional health system. METHODS During an increase in MIS HPB (60% greater from preceding year), hospital records of patients who underwent HPB surgery between 1/1/2019 and 12/31/2020 were reviewed. Operative time, estimated blood loss (EBL), conversion rates, length of stay (LOS), and perioperative outcomes were assessed. RESULTS 267 patients' cases were reviewed. The population was 62 ± 13 years, 50% female, 90% white. MIS was more frequently performed for hepatic than pancreatic resections (59% vs 21%, P < .001). Open cases were more frequently performed for invasive malignancy in both pancreatic (70% vs 40%, P < .018) and hepatic (87% vs 70%, P = .046) resections. There was no difference in operative time between MIS and open surgery (293[218-355]min vs 296[199-399]min, P = .893). When compared to open, there was a shorter LOS (4[2-6]d vs 7[6-10]d, P < .001) and lower readmission rate (21% vs 37%, P = .005) following MIS. Estimated blood loss was lower in MIS liver resections, particularly when performed for benign disease (200[63-500]mL vs 600[200-1200]mL, P = .041). Overall 30-day mortality was similar between MIS and open surgery (1.0% vs 1.8%, P = 1.000). DISCUSSION During a surgical expansion phase within our regional health system, MIS HPB offered improved perioperative outcomes when compared to open surgery. These data support the safety of implementation even during intervals of rapid programmatic growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha J Falls
- Surgical Institute, Allegheny Health Network, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Conor M Maxwell
- Surgical Institute, Allegheny Health Network, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Dylan J Kaye
- Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Shruti G Dighe
- Surgical Institute, Allegheny Health Network, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Suzanne C Schiffman
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Allegheny Health Network Cancer Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - David L Bartlett
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Allegheny Health Network Cancer Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Patrick L Wagner
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Allegheny Health Network Cancer Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Casey J Allen
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Allegheny Health Network Cancer Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE Pain requiring opioid use remains an issue even with minimally invasive thoracic surgery. The objective of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of intercostal nerve cryoablation (CRYO) for pain control in adult patients undergoing pulmonary resection. METHODS A retrospective analysis of patients undergoing pulmonary resection by uniportal video-assisted thoracic (uVATS) approach was undertaken. Patients treated with our usual pain regimen (STANDARD) were compared with those who additionally received CRYO. STANDARD includes intercostal bupivacaine, patient-controlled analgesia (24 h), ketorolac (48 to 72 h), and tramadol. Intraoperative CRYO was performed on 5 intercostal levels. The primary aim was to compare pain scores (range, 0 to 10) and morphine equivalent dosages (MED). Secondary outcomes included length of stay, chest tube duration, presence of an air leak, and adverse events. A p value <0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS There were 49 patients (34 female, 15 male). The median age was 74 (37 to 90) years. Procedures included lobectomy (n = 32), segmentectomy (n = 7), and wedge resections (n = 10). There were 23 (46.9%) CRYO and 26 (53.1%) STANDARD patients. Baseline characteristics were similar. Mean length of stay (2.9 vs 3.5 days), chest tube duration (2.2 vs 1.8 days), and adverse events (9 of 23 vs 7 of 26) were similar. There were no complications attributable to CRYO. Pain scores were not significantly different on postoperative days (POD) 1 to 4. MED was significantly reduced after CRYO on POD 1 (5 vs 47.24), POD 2 (10.93 vs 25.04), POD 3 (8.13 vs 21.7), and POD 4 (7.08 vs 19.17). CONCLUSIONS CRYO can be performed safely during pulmonary resection and can decrease in-hospital opioid use. The results from this retrospective study will need to be validated in future prospective studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Conor M Maxwell
- Department of General Surgery, Allegheny General Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Benny Weksler
- Division of Thoracic and Esophageal Surgery, Allegheny Health Network, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Joseph Houda
- Division of Thoracic and Esophageal Surgery, Allegheny Health Network, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Hiran C Fernando
- Division of Thoracic and Esophageal Surgery, Allegheny Health Network, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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Maxwell CM, Fernando HC. Resect a little, resect more, irradiate or ablate—what is the best approach? J Thorac Dis 2022; 14:3108-3110. [PMID: 36245579 PMCID: PMC9562515 DOI: 10.21037/jtd-22-1099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Conor M. Maxwell
- Department of Surgery, Allegheny General Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Hiran C. Fernando
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Allegheny General Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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Maxwell CM, Rostom A, Dube C, Bridges R, Heitman S, Forbes N, Hilsden RJ. A30 DEVELOPMENT OF A DEFINITION AND RULES FOR CAUSAL ATTRIBUTION OF POST-COLONOSCOPY BLEEDING (PCB). J Can Assoc Gastroenterol 2019. [DOI: 10.1093/jcag/gwz006.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - A Rostom
- University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - C Dube
- University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - R Bridges
- University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - S Heitman
- University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - N Forbes
- University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
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