Increased Mortality in Patients Undergoing Inpatient Endoscopy During the Early COVID-19 Pandemic

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Healthcare Management
• Epidemiology

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted healthcare systems globally.
• The effect on patients undergoing inpatient endoscopic procedures remains unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify factors associated with 30-day mortality in patients undergoing inpatient endoscopy.
• To compare outcomes before and during the initial wave of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective study comparing patients from March-May 2020 (COVID-19 era) with March-May 2018-2019 (control).
• Utilized Cox regression analysis to determine factors linked to 30-day mortality.
• Compared patient demographics and hospitalization/procedure data between groups.

Main Results:

• Inpatient endoscopy volume decreased in 2020, with a higher proportion of urgent procedures.
• The 30-day mortality rate was 10.1% in 2020.
• Male gender, greater distance from hospital, ICU admission, and procedures outside the endoscopy suite were associated with increased mortality risk in 2020.

Conclusions:

• Patients undergoing endoscopy during the pandemic experienced higher rates of ICU admission, urgent procedures, and 30-day mortality.
• Increased urgent cases may stem from hospital restructuring or delayed patient care.
• Identifying demographic and procedural risk factors can guide improved patient outcomes during future healthcare crises.