Risk factors for failed "fast-tracking" after cardiac surgery in patients older than 70 years

"Fast-track" pathways have been successfully used in low-risk, relatively young patients after all types of surgical procedures including cardiac surgery. An increase in the number of referrals of older patients for cardiac surgery prompted the present study on the use of a "fast-track" pathway in septuagenarians and octogenarians. Risk factors for the unsuccessful application of the "fast-track" pathway in these elderly patients were determined.

A retrospective observational study.

A single tertiary-care, university-affiliated center.

All 70-year-old or older patients undergoing cardiac surgery between January 1, 2004 and June 30, 2007 were included. Septuagenarians were compared with octogenarians.

During the 42-month period, 860 cardiac operations were performed on 576 septuagenarians and 284 octogenarians. The "fast-track" pathway was successful in 54.5% and 37.3%, respectively. On multiple logistic regression analyses, stroke, renal failure, and procedures other than primary isolated coronary artery bypass graft surgery were independently associated with failed early extubation, delayed intensive care unit discharge, and delayed hospital discharge in both groups. Infections and atrial fibrillation were independent risk factors for delayed hospital discharge in both groups and delayed intensive care unit discharge in the octogenarians. In the octogenarians only, congestive heart failure was an independent risk factor for failed early extubation, delayed intensive care unit discharge, and delayed hospital discharge.

A "fast-track" pathway may be applied in selected septuagenarians and octogenarians. Age alone should not exclude consideration for "fast-track" management.