Unplanned Admissions after Sinonasal Surgery

What are the factors for unplanned admission of patients after sinonasal surgery?

Background: Transition from hospital-based surgeries to ambulatory surgery center (ASC)-based surgeries has been increasing. A significant number of ASC cases are otolaryngological procedures, and sinonasal surgery is one of the most common; however, admissions into the hospital from the ASC can be difficult for the patient and the provider. This study evaluates the incidence of unplanned admissions after sinonasal surgery in a six-year period and identifies the factors involved in these admissions.

Study design: Retrospective review of patients from January 2007 to December 2012.

Setting: Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York City.

Synopsis: A total of 750 patients who underwent sinonasal surgeries at an ASC were analyzed. There were 24 admissions, of which six (0.8%) were unplanned. In decreasing order, the reasons for admission were pain, bleeding, and nausea, followed by other complications. The costs of transfer from an ASC to a hospital can be substantial, and it is important to avoid unplanned admissions. This study indicates that it is safe to schedule either single sinonasal procedures or combined sinonasal procedures on an outpatient basis.

Bottom line: Sinonasal surgeries may be safely conducted in the ASC setting. The most common reasons for unplanned admissions are pain, bleeding, and nausea.

Citation: Wong A, Kacker A. Incidence of unplanned admissions after sinonasal surgery: a 6-year review. Int Forum Allergy Rhinol. 2014;4:143-146.