Predictors of Venous Thromboembolism After Elective Metastatic Spinal Tumor Surgery　- Nationwide Readmissions...

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a serious complication following spine surgery for metastatic tumors. This study used the US Nationwide Readmissions Database to identify predictors of VTE and its associations with outcomes.

Data between 2016 and 2020 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients aged ≥18 years undergoing non-emergency surgery for spinal metastasis were included in the analysis. Multivariable regression analysis was used to assess associations of VTE with in-hospital outcomes and 30- and 90-day readmissions, as well as demographic and clinical factors associated with VTE occurrence during the index admission. In all, 2,706 patients were included in the analysis (mean age 63.6 years; 1,435 [53%] male). Of all patients, 126 (4.7%) developed VTE during the index admission. After adjustment, VTE was significantly associated with an increased risk of in-hospital mortality (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 5.34; 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.38-11.96) and 30-day readmission (aOR 2.06; 95% CI 1.33-3.19). Delays from admission to surgery (aOR 1.88; 95% CI 1.27-2.79) and a Charlson Comorbidity Index score ≥4 (aOR 3.11; 95% CI 1.60-6.04) were independently associated with an increased risk of VTE.

In patients undergoing surgery for spinal metastasis, postoperative VTE is associated with higher in-hospital mortality and 30-day readmission risks. A Charlson Comorbidity Index score ≥4 and delayed surgery are independently associated with greater risk of VTE.