Trends in risk factors for readmission after bariatric surgery 2015-2018

Readmission after bariatric surgery is multifactorial. Understanding the trends in risk factors for readmission provides opportunity to optimize patients prior to surgery identify disparities in care, and improve outcomes.

This study compares trends in bariatric surgery as they relate to risk factors for all-cause readmission.

Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) participating facilities.

The Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program database was used to analyze 760,076 bariatric cases from 854 centers. Demographics and 30-day unadjusted outcomes were compared between laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB), sleeve gastrectomy (LSG), and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) performed between 2015 and 2018. A multiple logistic regression model determined predictors of readmission.

A total of 574,453 bariatric cases met criteria, and all-cause readmission rates decreased from 4.2% in 2015 to 3.5% in 2018 (P < .0001). The percentage of non-Hispanic Black adults who underwent bariatric surgery increased from 16.7% of the total cohort in 2015 to 18.7% in 2018 (P < .0001). The percentage of Hispanic adults increased from 12.1% in 2015 to 13.8% in 2018 (P < .0001). The most common procedure performed was the LSG (71.5%), followed by RYGB (26.9%) and 1.6% LAGB (1.6%) (P < .0001). Men were protected from readmission compared with women (odds ratio [OR]: .87; 95% confidence interval [CI]: .84-.90). Non-Hispanic Black (OR: 1.52; 95% CI: 1.47-1.58)] and Hispanic adults (OR: 1.14; 95% CI: 1.09-1.19) were more likely to be readmitted compared with non-Hispanic White adults. LSG (OR: 1.27; 95% CI: 1.10-1.48) and RYGB (OR: 2.24; 95% CI: 1.93-2.60) were predictive of readmission compared with LAGB.

Readmission rates decreased over 4 years. Women, along with non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic adults, were more likely to be readmitted. Future research should focus on gender and racial disparities that impact readmission.