Indication as a predictor for outcomes in anterior cervical discectomy and fusion: The impact of myelopathy on disposition.

BACKGROUND: While the indication for Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF) may influence the expected postoperative course, there is limited data comparing how length of stay (LOS) and disposition for patients with myelopathy differ from those with radiculopathy. This study aimed to compare LOS and discharge disposition, in patients undergoing ACDF for cervical radiculopathy versus those for myelopathy.

METHODS: A retrospective review of all adult ACDF cases between 2013 and 2019 was conducted analyzing sex, age, race, comorbidities, level of surgery, myelopathy measures when applicable, complications, dysphagia, hospital LOS, and discharge disposition.

RESULTS: A total of 157 patients were included in the study with 73 patients undergoing an ACDF for radiculopathy and 84 for myelopathy. Univariate analysis determined older age (p < 0.01), male sex (p = 0.03), presence of CKD (p < 0.01) or COPD (p = 0.01), surgery at C3/4 level (p = 0.01), and indication (p < 0.01) as predictors for a discharge to either acute rehabilitation or a skilled nursing facility rather than to home. Multivariate logistic regression demonstrated age and indication as the only independent predictors of disposition, with home disposition being more likely with decreased age (OR 0.92, 95 % CI 0.86-0.98) and radiculopathy as the diagnosis (OR 6.72, 95 % CI 1.22- 37.02).

CONCLUSIONS: Myelopathic patients, as compared to those with radiculopathy at presentation, had significantly longer LOS, increased dysphagia, and were more often discharged to a facility. Understanding these two distinct populations as separate entities will streamline the pre and post-surgical care as the current DRG codes and ICD 10 PCS do not differentiate the expected post-operative course in patients undergoing ACDF for myelopathy versus radiculopathy.