Total hip arthroplasty: 30 days readmission at a tertiary care hospital.

Abstract

Objectives: To assess 30-day readmission at a tertiary care hospital following Total Hip Arthroplasty (THA) and to assess complications for which the patients were readmitted along with associated factors.

Methods: This prospective observational study examined patients undergoing THA at The Aga Khan University Hospital from February 2023 to December 2023. Patients were followed after THA up to 30 days. They were followed using an electronic medical record number system. Data on patient demographics and procedure was collected, along with reason for re-admission within 30-days. Statistical analysis was done using STATA version 15.1, where in descriptive statistics median and interquartile range, and frequencies and percentages were determined followed by Fisher's exact test.

Results: A total of 67 patients were included in the study. Four male patients above 55 years were readmitted within 30-days of THA. Underlying diagnosis was a significant factor for re-admission (p=0.05). Although, OA and AVN were commonly reported in patients >55 years, two of the readmitted patients had an underlying diagnosis of femoral neck fracture.

Conclusion: Diagnosis at the time of admission for THA is a substantial risk factor for readmission that warrants further investigation. In addition, it underscores the need for targeted post-operative monitoring to reduce readmissions especially for patients who are at high risk of readmission.