Incidence, risk factors, and clinical impact of non-home discharge following surgical management of proximal humerus fractures.

introductionThere has been a reported increase in the number of proximal humerus fractures being surgically managed. In an attempt to manage increasing costs associated with increasing volume, there is a need for identification of factors associated with discharge destinations.

methodsThe 2012-2016 American College of Surgeons-National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database was queried using Current Procedural Terminology codes for open reduction internal fixation, hemiarthroplasty, and total shoulder arthroplasty being performed for proximal humerus fractures.

resultsFive hundred and seventy-six (21.5%) patients had nonhome discharge disposition. Following adjusted analysis, age > 65 years (p < 0.001), partially dependent functional health status prior to surgery(p = 0.027), inpatient surgery (p = 0.010), American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) grade>II (p < 0.001), transfer from nursing home/chronic care facility (p < 0.001), undergoing a total shoulder arthroplasty versus open reduction internal fixation (p = 0.012), length of stay > 2 days (p < 0.001), and the occurrence of any predischarge complication (p < 0.001) were significant predictors associated with a nonhome discharge disposition.

conclusionThe study identifies significant risk factors associated with a nonhome discharge and assesses clinical impact of nonhome discharge destination on postdischarge outcomes. Providers can utilize these data to preoperatively risk stratify those at an increased risk of a nonhome discharge, counsel patients on discharge expectations, and tailor a more appropriate postoperative course of care.