Increased risk of adverse events in management of femur and tibial shaft fractures with plating: An analysis of NSQIP data

BackgroundThe management of femoral and tibial shaft fractures has long been among the simplest in orthopaedic trauma. Little data exist on the predictors of complications associated with these fractures. The evolving healthcare system is creating a focus on quality metrics and changing payment models. It is critical that traumatologists develop a better understanding of complication rates associated with these injuries so that they may continue to improve patient care while also reducing overall medical costs.MethodsUsing the ACS-NSQIP database, we evaluated patient demographics, comorbidities and 30-day complications of femoral and tibial fractures. A bivariate analysis was then used to compare rates of minor and major post-operative complications within 30 days. A multivariate logistic regression was performed, assessing the odds of developing a minor and/or major complication up to 30 days post-surgery.Results2891 patients were identified. For femoral fractures, intramedullary nailing (IMN) demonstrated an overall complication rate of 14.9% (n = 151) whereas open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) with plating showed an overall complication rate of 15.6% (n = 70). Patients undergoing plating of the femur or tibia were 2 times more likely than the IMN patients to demonstrate postoperative complications.ConclusionOur study is the first to demonstrate that plating of femoral and tibial fractures doubles the odds of developing a complication. As our healthcare system shifts to bundled payment plans, it is impertinent for the orthopaedic surgeon to understand the risk factors associated with fracture treatments in order to assess the best treatment plan.