The Association of ASA Class on Total Knee and Total Hip Arthroplasty Readmission Rates in an Academic Hospital

Total hip and knee arthroplasties are two of the most successful orthopaedic procedures. However, with the increasing demand, estimated future costs for these procedures are enormous. Recent data suggest post-discharge care may account for up to 35% of total episode payments. Yet, little is known about targets that can help improve quality and reduce cost. This retrospective study shows an ASA score of >= 3 is associated with a 2.9 times (P = 0.0082) greater risk of re-admission in total joint arthroplasty patients. The current literature corroborates this finding by demonstrating an increase risk of post-operative complications in patients with an ASA of >= 3. Therefore, the ASA score is a potential target for interventions designed to increase quality and lower cost in arthroplasty patients. (C) 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.