The Particulars: Data indicate that lung volume reduction surgery (LVRS) is growing in popularity as a treatment option for advanced emphysema when patients are refractory to maximal medical therapy. However, cumulative data for LVRS-associated in-hospital mortality has yet to be thoroughly assessed.
Data Breakdown: Using national data, researchers conducted a retrospective cohort study of adults who underwent LVRS from 2000 to 2009. During the study period, there were an estimated 13,789 admissions for LVRS, with an all-cause, in-hospital mortality rate of just 4.0%. Age was the strongest predictor of mortality and discharge to a nursing home.
Take Home Pearls: The in-hospital mortality rate for patients who undergo LVRS appears to be low but increases for older individuals. LVRS patients aged 65 and older are more likely to be discharged to a nursing home than younger patients.
