Preoperative Falls Predict Postoperative Falls, Functional Decline, and Surgical Complications.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Falls are common and linked to morbidity. Our objectives were to characterize postoperative falls, and determine whether preoperative falls independently predicted postoperative falls (primary outcome), functional dependence, quality of life, complications, and readmission.

Methods

This prospective cohort study included 7982 unselected patients undergoing elective surgery. Data were collected from the medical record, a baseline survey, and follow-up surveys approximately 30days and one year after surgery.

Results

Fall rates (per 100 person-years) peaked at 175 (hospitalization), declined to 140 (30-day survey), and then to 97 (one-year survey). After controlling for confounders, a history of one, two, and ≥three preoperative falls predicted postoperative fa

SUBMITTER: Kronzer VL 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5078581 | biostudies-literature | 2016 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature