Survival, discharge destination, and referral for rehabilitation after metastatic spinal cord compression surgery

Spinal Cord Series and Cases, 2021 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41394-021-00428-z · Published: July 15, 2021

Spinal Cord Injury Oncology Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This study examines survival rates, rehabilitation needs, and discharge destinations of patients who underwent surgery for metastatic spinal cord compression (MSCC). It aims to identify factors associated with mortality and readmission in these patients. The study found that while most patients had documented rehabilitation potential, only a fraction were discharged with a rehabilitation plan. Older age was significantly associated with higher mortality. These findings highlight an unmet need for rehabilitation services among MSCC patients and suggest that current discharge practices may not adequately address their rehabilitation needs.

Study Duration

2017-2018

Participants

74 adult patients with metastatic spinal cord compression

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
The probability of survival after 90- and 180-days post-surgery were 78% and 57%, respectively.
2
Ninety-three percent of the patient’s medical records described rehabilitation potential, but only 44.6% of the patients were discharged with a rehabilitation plan.
3
Higher age was the only deﬁned variable that was signiﬁcantly associated with higher mortality

Research Summary

This retrospective study investigated survival, rehabilitation needs, and discharge destinations of patients undergoing surgery for metastatic spinal cord compression (MSCC). The study revealed a discrepancy between the documented rehabilitation potential of patients and the actual provision of rehabilitation plans upon discharge, indicating an unmet need for rehabilitation services. Increasing age was significantly associated with higher mortality. The study highlights the need for improved discharge routines and identification of patients who would benefit most from rehabilitation.

Practical Implications

Improve Discharge Planning

Critically analyze and improve current discharge routines to ensure that patients with rehabilitation potential receive appropriate rehabilitation plans.

Enhance Rehabilitation Referral

Develop strategies for better identification of patients who would benefit most from rehabilitation, including referral to specialized rehabilitation units.

Address Mortality Factors

Consider age as a significant factor in mortality risk and tailor treatment and rehabilitation plans accordingly.

Survival, discharge destination, and referral for rehabilitation after metastatic spinal cord compression surgery

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Improve Discharge Planning

Enhance Rehabilitation Referral

Address Mortality Factors

Study Limitations

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Was this summary helpful?

Survival, discharge destination, and referral for rehabilitation after metastatic spinal cord compression surgery

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Improve Discharge Planning

Enhance Rehabilitation Referral

Address Mortality Factors

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?