Dependent functional status is a risk factor for complications after surgery for diverticulitis coli

Area of Science:

• Surgical outcomes research
• Patient functional status assessment
• Colorectal surgery

Background:

• Functional dependence (FD) is linked to adverse postoperative outcomes.
• The impact of FD on colectomy outcomes requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the influence of functional dependence on postoperative outcomes in patients undergoing colectomy.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of 2012-2020 National Surgical Quality Improvement Program data.
• Inclusion of patients who underwent colectomy for diverticulitis.
• Comparison of outcomes between functionally dependent (FD) and functionally independent (FI) patient groups.

Main Results:

• 1.6% of 62,409 colectomy patients were functionally dependent (FD).
• FD patients were older, had more comorbidities, and underwent more unplanned open procedures.
• Adjusted analysis revealed FD patients had 1.12x higher postoperative morbidity and 1.53x higher 30-day mortality.

Conclusions:

• Dependent functional status is an independent risk factor for complications following diverticulitis surgery.
• FD status negatively impacts colectomy patient outcomes, including morbidity and mortality.