Trends in Hospital-to-Hospital Transfers for Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: A Single-Institution Experience from 2006 to 2017.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Despite evidence to support that aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) is best treated at high-volume centers, it is unknown whether clinical practice reflects these findings. METHODS: We analyzed patients transferred to our high-volume center for aSAH between 2006 and 2017. Data collection included number of transfers, demographic data, Hunt and Hess score, Fisher score, comorbid conditions, length of stay (LOS), discharge disposition, in-hospital mortality rates, insurance status, and hospital charges. Comparisons were made across 3 time periods (2006-2009, 2010-2013, and 2014-2017) and included subgroup analyses by treatment modality (endovascular vs. microsurgical). RESULTS: aSAH transfers declined from 213 in 2006-2009 to 160 in 2014-2017. While there was no change in presenting Hunt and Hess scores, the percentage of modified Fisher scores of 4 increased from 2006-2009 to 2014-2017. Transferred patients had a greater comorbidity index and decreased predicted 10-year survival. Despite this, the average LOS decreased. In-hospital mortality decreased from 2006-2009 to 2014-2017, especially in the endovascular cohort. The proportions of patients who were either self-pay or Medicaid did not change. Overall inflation-adjusted hospital charges decreased from $76,975 in 2006-2009 to $59,870 in 2014-2017. CONCLUSIONS: Between 2006 and 2017, transfers to our center for aSAH declined. However, transferred patients had greater levels of complexity, more comorbidities, and were at greater risk for vasospasm based on their presenting Fisher score. Nonetheless, average LOS, in-hospital mortality, and cost declined. These changing referral patterns have implications for outcome data, quality reporting, resident education, and developing systems of care to optimize outcomes.