Multidimensional prognostic index predicts short- and long-term mortality and rehospitalizations in older patients...

Multidimensional Prognostic Index (MPI), calculated on cognitive, functional, nutritional, social, pharmacological and comorbidity domains, strongly correlates with mortality in older patients. Hip fractures are a major health problem and are associated with adverse outcomes in those affected by frailty.

We aimed at evaluating whether MPI is a predictor of mortality and rehospitalization in hip fracture older patients.

We investigated the associations of MPI with all-cause 3- and 6-month mortality and rehospitalization in 1259 older patients admitted for hip fracture surgical treatment and managed by an orthogeriatric team [age 85 years (65-109); male gender: 22%].

Overall mortality was 11,4%, 17% and 23,5% at 3, 6 and 12 months from surgery (rehospitalizations: 15, 24,5 and 35,7%). MPI was associated (p < 0.001) with 3-, 6- and 12- month mortality and readmissions; Kaplan-Meier estimate for rehospitalization and survival according to MPI risk classes confirmed these results. In multiple regression analyses these associations were independent (p < 0.05) of mortality and rehospitalization-associated factors not included in the MPI, such as gender, age and post-surgical complications. Similar MPI predictive value was observed in patients undergoing endoprosthesis or other surgeries. ROC analysis confirmed that MPI was a predictor (p < 0.001) of both 3- and 6- month mortality and rehospitalization.

In hip fracture older patients, MPI is a strong predictor of 3-, 6- and 12- months mortality and rehospitalization, independently of surgical treatment and post-surgical complications. Therefore, MPI should be considered a valid pre-surgical tool to identify patients with higher clinical risk of adverse outcomes.